A Crowd-Pleasing Sweet Fruit Dessert for All Occasions
If you’re searching for a quick, vibrant, and absolutely mouthwatering dessert, this Better Than Sex Fruit Salad is the ultimate treat! Packed with juicy fruits, creamy textures, and bright colors, this no-bake fruit salad is a showstopper at summer barbecues, potlucks, family dinners, or even holidays.
Whether you call it a cherry fruit salad, easy tropical fruit dessert, or a “dump and mix dessert,” this recipe is incredibly simple to prepare. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and requires only 4 core ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry!
Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide for creating this crowd-pleasing fruit salad that’s so good, it might even rival your favorite dessert recipes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Just a handful of pantry staples and fresh fruit!
- No-Bake Dessert: Forget the oven! This fruit salad is ready in minutes.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it at holidays, summer picnics, brunches, or last-minute gatherings.
- Customizable: Add your favorite fruits, nuts, or even a creamy twist to make it your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Better Than Sex Fruit Salad, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 can fruit cocktail, drained
- Use a 15 oz. can of chunky tropical fruit cocktail for the best flavor and variety.
- 1 can crushed pineapple
- An 8 oz. can works perfectly. Make sure it’s drained to avoid excess moisture.
- 1 can cherry pie filling
- A 21 oz. can of cherry pie filling adds vibrant color and a sweet-tart balance.
- 2 ripe bananas
- Slice them right before mixing to keep them fresh and avoid browning.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Whipped Cream or Cool Whip: For an extra creamy and indulgent twist.
- Toasted Nuts: Add chopped pecans, almonds, or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
- Mini Marshmallows: Perfect for a fun and fluffy addition.
- Coconut Flakes: A tropical boost that pairs perfectly with the fruit.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fruits
- Drain the canned fruit cocktail and crushed pineapple completely.
- TIP: Use a fine-mesh strainer to remove excess syrup or juice. This ensures the salad won’t turn soupy.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the drained fruit cocktail and crushed pineapple. Stir gently to combine.
Step 2: Add the Cherry Pie Filling
- Open your cherry pie filling and pour it directly into the bowl with the other fruits.
- Use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold the cherry pie filling into the mix carefully.
- TIP: Be gentle when mixing to avoid breaking up the fruit pieces.
The cherry pie filling acts as a rich and sweet “dressing” for this fruit salad, giving it a deep red color and indulgent flavor.
Step 3: Slice and Add the Bananas
- Right before serving, slice 2 ripe bananas into thin, even rounds.
- TIP: Toss banana slices lightly with a teaspoon of lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Gently fold the sliced bananas into the salad.
Step 4: Optional Creamy Twist
For an even more decadent dessert, add whipped cream or Cool Whip:
- Fold 1 cup of whipped topping into the fruit mixture before serving.
- This addition transforms the salad into a fluffy cherry fruit dessert that tastes like a cross between a trifle and a cream pie.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled in a decorative glass bowl for an eye-catching presentation.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves, toasted coconut flakes, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for an elevated look.
- Pair with vanilla ice cream or pound cake for a no-bake summer dessert that will impress your guests.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Avoid Freezing: Freezing changes the texture of the fruit, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
- Tip: If preparing in advance, add bananas just before serving to maintain freshness.
Customization Ideas
The beauty of this fruit salad recipe lies in its versatility. Here are a few ways to customize it:
- Add Fresh Fruits: Incorporate fresh strawberries, blueberries, or mango chunks for a burst of natural flavor.
- Boost Protein: Sprinkle chia seeds or add Greek yogurt for a healthy, protein-rich option.
- Make it Tropical: Swap cherry pie filling for mango puree or passionfruit for a unique spin.
- Kid-Friendly Twist: Stir in mini marshmallows or gummy candies to make it fun for kids.
Perfect Occasions for Better Than Sex Fruit Salad
This irresistible fruit dessert is perfect for:
- Holiday Gatherings: Add it to your Christmas, Thanksgiving, or Easter dessert table.
- Summer BBQs: Refreshing, light, and easy to prepare.
- Potlucks: No-bake, travel-friendly, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Quick Weeknight Desserts: Ready in under 10 minutes for a last-minute sweet treat.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 180
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sugars: 28g
- Fat: 0.5g
- Protein: 1g
Note: Nutritional values vary depending on ingredient brands and optional add-ins.
FAQs About Better Than Sex Fruit Salad
1. Can I make this fruit salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the base fruit salad (without bananas) up to 1 day in advance. Add bananas just before serving.
2. Can I use fresh fruits instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple, mango, and cherries work beautifully. Just be sure to adjust sweetness.
3. Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Simply use a vegan pie filling and whipped topping alternative.
Final Thoughts
This Better Than Sex Fruit Salad is the ultimate quick, no-bake dessert that everyone will rave about. With its combination of fruity flavors, creamy add-ins, and vibrant colors, it’s a recipe you’ll keep coming back to for holidays, parties, and weeknight cravings.
Try it today and see why it’s earned its irresistible name! Don’t forget to pin it, share it, and save it for later.