Description

Nana’s Frozen Fruit Salad is a delightful and classic no-bake dessert combining cream cheese, whipped cream, and a medley of canned fruits. With its sweet, creamy texture and bursts of tropical flavors, this frozen treat is perfect for warm days or special occasions. It freezes into a firm, sliceable square that’s easy to serve and wonderfully refreshing.

Ingredients

Scale

Dairy Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped

Sweeteners and Flavorings

1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Fruit Ingredients

1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
1 can (15 oz) fruit cocktail, drained
1 jar (10 oz) maraschino cherries, drained and halved

Optional Ingredients

1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare Fruit: Thoroughly drain the crushed pineapple, fruit cocktail, and maraschino cherries. Halve the cherries if desired to ensure manageable bite sizes.
Mix Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, providing the base for your salad.
Incorporate Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped heavy cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully blended, creating a light and fluffy texture.
Add Fruit and Flavorings: Stir in the drained pineapple, fruit cocktail, halved cherries, chopped walnuts if using, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix gently to combine all ingredients evenly without breaking the fruit.
Freeze the Salad: Spread the mixture evenly into an 8×8-inch baking dish. Cover it securely and place it in the freezer for 4 to 6 hours, or until firm enough to cut into squares.
Serve: Remove from the freezer and let sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes to soften slightly. Cut into 9 to 12 squares or scoop into bowls and enjoy this refreshing frozen dessert.

Notes

Be sure to drain the canned fruits thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from making the dessert watery.
If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts.
For easier slicing, allow the salad to soften slightly at room temperature before cutting.
This dessert can be stored in the freezer for up to one week.
Use full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream for best texture and flavor.