This fun cheesecake salad is a colorful treat! It combines creamy cheesecake goodness with fresh berries for a sweet and light dessert that screams summer.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a salad full of cream and berries? I could eat this all day, especially on a hot day! Just mix, chill, and enjoy without any fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try Neufchâtel cheese. It’s lower in fat but still creamy!
Powdered Sugar: This sweetener gives the salad a smooth texture. If you’re trying to cut sugar, you can use a sugar substitute designed for baking, just check for equivalent measurements.
Whipped Topping: I love using Cool Whip for convenience, but you can make your own whipped cream by whipping heavy cream until soft peaks form. It’s a great option if you prefer natural ingredients.
Berries: Fresh strawberries and blueberries work perfectly in this salad. You can substitute raspberries or blackberries if they’re available, or even mix in some frozen berries if fresh ones aren’t in season.
Miniature Marshmallows: They add a fun chewy texture. If you want a healthier alternative, consider using chopped bananas or diced peaches instead!
How Do I Make Sure My Salad is Creamy and Not Lumpy?
To avoid lumps in your cheesecake salad, start with softened cream cheese. It’s much easier to beat smooth when it’s at room temperature. Here’s how to mix it effectively:
- Beat the cream cheese alone first until it’s creamy, then gradually mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla to ensure everything blends evenly.
- When folding in the whipped topping, be gentle! Use a spatula and fold in from the bottom, turning the bowl as you go. This keeps it airy and light.
- Stir in the fruit and marshmallows gently to keep everything intact and avoid crushing the berries.
Taking these steps will give you a deliciously creamy salad every time!
Easy Red White and Blue Cheesecake Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1 cup blueberries
- 2 cups miniature marshmallows
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. So, in just a short time, you can whip together a delicious dessert that’s perfect for celebrations or summer gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, take your softened cream cheese and beat it with a hand mixer or a spatula until it’s nice and smooth. No lumps allowed here!
2. Sweeten It Up:
Add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until it’s all combined and creamy. The vanilla will add a lovely flavor that’s essential for that cheesecake vibe!
3. Fold in the Whipped Topping:
Now, carefully fold in the thawed whipped topping. Use a spatula to gently mix until everything is nice and smooth. The key is to keep it light and fluffy, so be gentle!
4. Add the Delicious Fillings:
Next, toss in the chopped strawberries, blueberries, and miniature marshmallows. These will add bursts of flavor and sweetness to your salad—so good!
5. Combine with Care:
Stir everything together gently. You want the fruit and marshmallows evenly distributed, but try not to crush the berries while you mix.
6. Chill It Out:
Cover your salad bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 1 hour. This waiting time helps the flavors meld together and makes it even more delicious!
7. Serve Your Salad:
Once chilled, scoop your salad into bowls or serve it in the same bowl. It’s a beautiful and tasty dessert to enjoy with family and friends. Drizzle a bit of extra whipped topping on top if you like, and dig in!
Enjoy!
This simple and delightful cheesecake salad will be a hit at any gathering! Perfect for holidays, picnics, or just to satisfy your sweet cravings. Enjoy!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese can be used instead of regular cream cheese for a lighter version of this cheesecake salad. Just keep in mind that it might be slightly less creamy, but it will still taste delicious!
How Long Can I Store the Cheesecake Salad?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to give it a gentle stir before serving again, as the ingredients may settle.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the salad up to 24 hours ahead of time. Just be sure to cover it well to keep the flavors fresh. Chilling it overnight allows all the flavors to develop nicely!
What Other Fruits Can I Use?
You can definitely switch things up! Feel free to substitute or add other fruits like raspberries, diced peaches, or even kiwi. Just ensure they are cut into small pieces for easy mixing!
