Description
Creamy Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Salad with fresh fruit, cheesecake base, and luscious dressing. A crowd-pleasing dessert!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 medium ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, well-drained
- 1 (8 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed (like Cool Whip)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (full-fat recommended)
- 1/4 cup milk (any kind)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Graham cracker crumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheesecake Base: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating until well combined and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon juice (if using). Set aside.
- Prepare the Fruit: Wash and hull the strawberries, then slice. Peel and slice the bananas just before assembling to prevent browning. Drain the crushed pineapple very well.
- Make the Creamy Dressing: In a separate bowl, gently fold together the thawed whipped topping, sour cream, milk, and sifted powdered sugar until smooth. Be careful not to overmix. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, gently combine the cheesecake base, sliced strawberries, sliced bananas, and drained crushed pineapple. Pour the creamy dressing over the fruit mixture and gently fold until well coated. Gently fold in the mini marshmallows and chopped nuts (if using).
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Before serving, sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs (if using). Serve chilled.
Notes
- Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth base.
- Drain the crushed pineapple very well to prevent a watery salad.
- Slice bananas just before assembling to prevent browning, or toss with lemon juice.
- Sift the powdered sugar to prevent lumps in the dressing.
- Be gentle when mixing to avoid bruising the fruit.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Variations: Try other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or mandarin oranges. Add a graham cracker crust to the bottom of the dish. Use light ingredients to make it lighter. Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dressing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes