Looking for a dessert that’s creamy, fruity, and just the right amount of indulgent? This Cheesecake Fruit Salad has all the flavors of a classic cheesecake but in a lighter, spoonable form. Fresh fruit, a tangy-sweet cheesecake filling, crunchy topping, and caramel drizzle come together for a treat that’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or weeknight desserts.
Ingredients
For the Fruit Base:
- 2 cups strawberries, hulled and halved
- 2 cups green apples, cored and diced
- 1 cup red grapes, halved
- 1 cup granola or crushed graham crackers
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until light and fluffy.
Step 2: Assemble the Fruit Salad
In a large serving bowl, layer the strawberries, green apples, and red grapes.
Spoon the cheesecake mixture evenly over the fruit.
Sprinkle with granola or crushed graham crackers for crunch.
Drizzle caramel sauce generously over the top.
Step 3: Chill and Serve
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the filling to set slightly.
Serve chilled in bowls or cups for an elegant presentation.
Recipe Recap
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6–8
- Calories: ~320 kcal per serving
Tips & Variations
- Swap apples for pears, or grapes for blueberries, depending on the season.
- For extra indulgence, add mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts on top.
- Make it lighter by using reduced-fat cream cheese and less sugar.
- Serve in individual mason jars for parties and easy grab-and-go desserts.
Why This Recipe Works
This cheesecake fruit salad strikes the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and fresh. It’s a crowd-pleaser because it’s sweet enough to feel indulgent but light enough to enjoy after a meal. Plus, it’s versatile — you can swap in almost any fruit you have on hand.
More Sweet Recipes to Try
Looking for more easy desserts with big flavor?
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👉 60 Mouthwatering American Dishes Made Simple