Strawberry Cheesecake Salad Recipe
Introduction
Strawberry Cheesecake Salad is a delightful, creamy dessert salad that combines fresh fruit with a luscious cheesecake-flavored pudding and whipped topping. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or as a sweet treat any time you crave something light and fruity.
Ingredients
- 1 box (3.4 oz) cheesecake or white chocolate pudding mix
- 12 oz whipped topping
- 3 (6 oz) containers strawberry yogurt
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, sliced
- 3 bananas, sliced (add just before serving to avoid browning)
- 3 cups miniature marshmallows (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the whipped topping, pudding mix, and strawberry yogurt until smooth. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour until ready to serve.
- Step 2: Just before serving, slice the fresh strawberries and bananas.
- Step 3: Remove the pudding mixture from the refrigerator and gently fold in the sliced strawberries, bananas, and marshmallows. Stir carefully to combine without losing the fluffiness.
- Step 4: Serve immediately for the best texture and freshness.
Tips & Variations
- For added crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or almonds on top before serving.
- If you prefer a tangier flavor, substitute one container of strawberry yogurt with plain Greek yogurt.
- Miniature marshmallows are optional but add a fun texture contrast; feel free to leave them out if desired.
- Add a splash of lemon juice to the bananas as soon as they are sliced to prevent browning if you need to prepare earlier.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because of the fresh fruit and whipped topping, the salad is best enjoyed fresh. Stir gently before serving again. Avoid storing with bananas mixed in to reduce browning.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Fresh strawberries are best for this recipe because they hold their shape well and provide the best texture. If using frozen strawberries, thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, but expect a softer texture.
How long can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?
You can prepare the pudding mixture up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. Add the fresh fruit and marshmallows right before serving to keep the salad fresh and prevent the fruit from becoming soggy or browned.
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Strawberry Cheesecake Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Strawberry Cheesecake Salad is a delightful, creamy dessert salad combining the tangy flavor of cheesecake pudding mix with fresh strawberries, bananas, and a fluffy whipped topping. This easy-to-make no-bake recipe balances sweet and fruity flavors with a light, airy texture, perfect for potlucks, summer gatherings, or anytime you crave a refreshing, indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Salad Base
- 1 box (3.4 oz) cheesecake or white chocolate pudding mix
- 12 oz whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
- 3 containers (6 oz each) strawberry yogurt
Fruit and Add-ins
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, sliced
- 3 bananas, sliced (add just before serving to prevent browning)
- 3 cups miniature marshmallows (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare pudding mixture: In a large bowl, combine the whipped topping, cheesecake or white chocolate pudding mix, and strawberry yogurt. Whisk together thoroughly until smooth and well incorporated.
- Chill the base: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to set slightly.
- Slice the fruit: When ready to serve, slice the fresh strawberries and bananas. It’s best to add the bananas just before serving to keep them from browning.
- Combine salad ingredients: Remove the pudding mixture from the refrigerator and gently fold in the sliced strawberries, bananas, and miniature marshmallows if using. Stir gently to evenly distribute all the ingredients without breaking the fruit.
- Serve immediately: Once combined, serve the strawberry cheesecake salad right away for the best texture and freshness.
Notes
- For best flavor and texture, use fresh strawberries and add bananas just before serving to avoid browning.
- Miniature marshmallows add a fun, chewy contrast but can be omitted if preferred.
- This salad is best served chilled but not frozen.
- Use low-fat or sugar-free versions of pudding mix and yogurt to make a lighter version.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 day but fruit texture may change.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Strawberry Cheesecake Salad, no bake dessert, pudding salad, fruit salad, whipped topping dessert, easy summer dessert
