A Classic Crowd-Pleaser for Every Occasion
The Creamy Fruit Salad is a timeless dessert that combines vibrant, juicy fruits with a rich, velvety dressing, creating the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy in every bite. Originating from American potlucks and family gatherings, this salad has become a beloved staple at barbecues, holidays, and brunches. With its colorful mix of seasonal fruits coated in a luscious blend of whipped cream and sweetened condensed milk, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious. This recipe elevates the classic version with a touch of vanilla and optional marshmallow fluff for extra indulgence.

Why This Creamy Fruit Salad Stands Out
What sets this version apart is its creamy dressing—made with real whipped cream, cream cheese, and a hint of citrus zest—that clings perfectly to each piece of fruit without being overly sweet. You can customize it with your favorite fruits, from crisp apples to tropical mangoes, making it versatile year-round. It requires no cooking, comes together in under 20 minutes, and can be made ahead, freeing up time for hosting. Whether served as a side dish or dessert, this salad disappears fast at any table.
Ready to make a fruity, creamy masterpiece that everyone will love?
Dive into the full recipe below and bring freshness to your next meal!
Best Creamy Fruit Salad Recipe: Refreshing & Easy
Course: SaladsCuisine: United StatesDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes00
minutes210
kcalIngredients
1 cup strawberries, hulled and halved
1 cup green grapes, halved
1 cup red grapes, halved
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
1 cup mandarin orange segments (canned, drained)
1 medium apple, diced
1 medium banana, sliced (add just before serving)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup sweetened condensed milk
1 cup heavy whipping cream
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp lemon zest (optional)
½ cup mini marshmallows (optional)
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all prepared fruits except banana; set aside.
- In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sweetened condensed milk and vanilla; mix until fully blended.
- In another bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth.
- Gently stir in lemon zest and mini marshmallows (if using).
- Pour dressing over the fruit and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Cover and chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Just before serving, fold in sliced bananas to prevent browning.
- Garnish with extra fruit or mint leaves if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe fruits for best flavor; avoid overripe bananas until serving.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese for a lighter, tangier version.
- Add shredded coconut or chopped nuts for texture.
- For a tropical twist, include mango, kiwi, or papaya.

This Creamy Fruit Salad is a refreshing blend of juicy fruits in a rich, velvety dressing. Made with whipped cream and cream cheese, it’s an easy, no-cook dessert perfect for parties. Customizable and make-ahead friendly—ideal for summer gatherings!
Storing Tips for Creamy Fruit Salad and Conclusion
- Refrigerate Immediately: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Add Bananas Last: Prevent browning by adding banana slices just before serving.
- Avoid Freezing: Cream dressing separates when frozen; best enjoyed fresh.
- Stir Before Serving: Gently mix to redistribute dressing after chilling.
In conclusion, adding this Creamy Fruit Salad to your Delicious Salads list is a must—it’s more than just a dessert, it’s a celebration of freshness, flavor, and simplicity. Its vibrant colors and creamy texture make it a standout at any event, while its adaptability ensures it’s never the same twice. A true American classic, reimagined for modern tables.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare up to 24 hours in advance, but add bananas and final toss just before serving.
What fruits work best?
Use firm fruits like apples, grapes, and pineapple. Soft fruits like peaches can become mushy.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes—use coconut cream, dairy-free cream cheese, and plant-based condensed milk.
How do I prevent watery salad?
Drain canned fruits well and pat dry fresh fruits before mixing.
Can I skip the cream cheese?
Yes, but it adds richness. Use more whipped cream or yogurt instead.
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