If you love the creamy decadence of cheesecake and the refreshing sweetness of fresh fruit, this Cheesecake Fruit Salad is about to become your go-to dessert. It’s rich, fruity, tangy, and surprisingly easy to make. Think of it as the perfect union between a fruit salad and a no-bake cheesecake—light, luscious, and ideal for any gathering or quiet moment of indulgence.
From backyard barbecues to holiday parties, this recipe fits every occasion. It requires no baking, comes together in minutes, and can be customized with your favorite fruits. The addition of caramel drizzle takes it over the top, but it’s just as lovely without.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesecake Fruit Salad
✓ Creamy & Tangy – The cheesecake filling is smooth, rich, and slightly tart, perfectly balancing the natural sweetness of fresh fruit.
✓ Quick & Easy – No oven, no complicated steps. Just mix, fold, and chill.
✓ Customizable – Use whatever fruit you love or have on hand.
✓ Crowd-Friendly – Makes a beautiful and generous bowl for potlucks, brunches, or dessert tables.
Ingredients
For the Fruit Salad
- 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 cups green apples, chopped
- 1 cup grapes (red or green), halved
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned), drained
- 1 cup bananas, sliced
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
For the Caramel Drizzle (Optional)
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Fruit
Wash, peel (if needed), and chop all the fruit into bite-sized pieces. Place into a large mixing bowl and toss gently to combine.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
In a separate bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
3. Assemble the Salad
Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared fruit. Gently fold until the fruit is evenly coated—don’t overmix to avoid breaking up the fruit.
4. Drizzle with Caramel
Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the salad. For extra indulgence, you can swirl some into the filling itself or serve it on the side for dipping.
5. Chill & Serve
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold, garnished with extra caramel or crushed graham crackers if desired.
Tips for Success
- Use cold cream and a chilled bowl for whipping the cream—it helps achieve better volume.
- Add bananas just before serving to prevent browning.
- For crunch, top with crushed graham crackers, chopped pecans, or granola.
- Make ahead up to 4 hours in advance, but wait to add caramel until right before serving.
- Go dairy-free by using vegan cream cheese and coconut whipped topping.
Variations
- Berry Lovers: Use strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a summery berry twist.
- Tropical Style: Try mango, kiwi, pineapple, and coconut flakes.
- No caramel? Add honey, maple syrup, or just leave it out—the cheesecake base is sweet enough.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fruit?
Yes, but thaw and drain thoroughly to avoid watering down the salad.
Can I use whipped topping instead of heavy cream?
Absolutely. Substitute 1 ½ cups of whipped topping for the whipped cream.
How long does it keep?
Best enjoyed within 2 days. Store covered in the fridge. Stir gently before serving again.
Can I skip the caramel?
Yes. The salad is still rich and flavorful without it.
Can I add mini marshmallows?
You can! They add a fun texture and extra sweetness—great for kids.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 70mg
Serving Size: 1/8 of the recipe
Final Thoughts
This Cheesecake Fruit Salad delivers all the creamy, fruity, dessert vibes you crave—with none of the fuss. Whether served in a big bowl for a crowd or portioned into elegant cups for brunch, it’s a recipe that adapts to the moment. Every spoonful is packed with fresh fruit, sweet creaminess, and just the right amount of indulgence.
So go ahead—chop the fruit, whip the filling, and get ready to fall in love with your new favorite no-bake dessert.
