Frozen fruit salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that brings a nostalgic charm to any table. Originating from my great-grandma’s recipe box, this vintage recipe offers a unique twist on the classic marshmallow fruit salad. It’s a versatile dish, perfect for holiday feasts or as a cooling treat during warm summer days. Whether served as a side dish or a light dessert, this frozen fruit salad is a family favorite. My Aunt Jenny has lovingly preserved this tradition, ensuring its presence at every Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas celebration. Now, you can bring this cherished dish to your own family gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups whipped topping, plus extra for serving
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, diced
- 2 large bananas, peeled and diced
- 20 ounces crushed pineapple, drained
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Freezing Time: 4-6 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes to 6 hours 20 minutes
Servings: This recipe serves 8-10 people, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by softening the cream cheese to ensure it blends smoothly. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the diced strawberries. Use a spatula to gently mix until the strawberries are evenly coated, creating a creamy and fruity base.
Step 2: Incorporate the Fruits and Whipped Topping
Next, fold in the drained crushed pineapple and diced bananas. Take care to mix gently to prevent the bananas from mashing. Add the whipped topping and continue folding until the mixture is well combined and airy. The whipped topping adds a light, fluffy texture that balances the creaminess of the cream cheese.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Take a 9×13-inch baking pan and evenly spread the fruit and cream mixture across the surface. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even layer. This step ensures the salad freezes uniformly and is easy to slice later.
Step 4: Freeze the Salad
Place the pan in the freezer, ensuring it is level to prevent uneven freezing. Allow the salad to freeze for 4-6 hours, or until it is completely firm. For best results, prepare this dish the night before your event, giving it ample time to set.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once frozen, remove the pan from the freezer. Let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to make slicing easier. Cut the frozen fruit salad into squares or rectangles and transfer them to serving plates. Garnish with a dollop of whipped topping for an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.
Tips for Success:
- Customization: Feel free to add your favorite fruits or mix-ins, such as chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or mini marshmallows, to personalize this dish.
- Storage: Store leftover frozen fruit salad in an airtight container in the freezer. It will keep for up to a week, maintaining its flavor and texture.
- Serving Idea: Pair this frozen fruit salad with a drizzle of chocolate syrup or a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for a dessert-like twist.