Frozen Fruit Cocktail Salad

Frozen Fruit Cocktail Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 container (8 oz) cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (whipped to soft peaks)

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, well-drained

• 1 can (10 oz) raspberries or strawberries, gently defrosted and diced

• 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained

• 1/2 cup pecans, chopped

• 2 ripe bananas, sliced

• 1/3 cup maraschino cherries, halved

• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:

   • In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until well combined and smooth.

2. Add Whipped Cream:

   • Gently fold in the whipped cream (whipped to soft peaks) into the cream cheese mixture. Mix until fully incorporated and smooth.

3. Add the Fruit:

   • Stir in the drained mandarin oranges, diced strawberries (or raspberries), and drained pineapple chunks. Gently toss to combine the fruits evenly with the creamy mixture.

4. Add Pecans and Cherries:

   • Sprinkle the chopped pecans and halved maraschino cherries over the fruit mixture and stir gently to combine.

5. Prevent Banana Browning:

   • In a small bowl, toss the banana slices with the lemon juice to prevent browning. Add the banana slices to the fruit mixture and gently fold them in.

6. Freeze the Salad:

   • Spread the fruit mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch baking dish (or another similar-sized dish). Smooth the top and place it in the freezer for at least 4 hours, or until it becomes solid.

7. Serve:

   • Once frozen, remove the salad from the freezer and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before serving. Cut it into squares or scoops and serve chilled.

Tips and Variations:

• Lighter Version: Substitute lower-fat or Neufchâtel cheese for the cream cheese, and use light whipped topping instead of heavy cream for a lighter option.

• Flavor Variations: Feel free to mix and match fruits based on what’s in season or your preferences—peaches, mangoes, or berries work well!

• Add a Touch of Liquor: A splash of rum or orange liqueur can add an elegant flavor boost if desired.

• Make-Ahead: This dish can be made a day or two in advance and kept in the freezer until ready to serve.

• Presentation: For a more elegant presentation, serve each slice on a bed of lettuce for a fresh and visually appealing touch.

Serving Size:

This recipe makes approximately 12-15 servings.

Enjoy this Frozen Fruit Cocktail Salad as a refreshing, creamy, and fruity dessert or side dish at your next gathering!