Description
This Red White and Blue Cheesecake Salad is a delightful no-bake dessert that combines creamy sweetened cream cheese and whipped topping with fresh strawberries, blueberries, and optional raspberries, accented by mini marshmallows for a fun, fluffy texture. Perfect for patriotic celebrations or a refreshing summer treat, this dessert salad is easy to prepare, chilled to blend flavors, and serves six.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheesecake Base
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
Fruit & Add-Ins
- 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 ½ cups blueberries
- 1 ½ cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup raspberries (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer or by hand until it becomes smooth and creamy. This step ensures a lump-free and silky cheesecake base.
- Add Sweeteners and Flavor: Incorporate the powdered sugar and vanilla extract into the cream cheese. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are fully combined for a sweet and fragrant base.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. This lightens the texture, making it fluffy and creamy without deflating the whipped topping.
- Combine Fruits and Marshmallows: Carefully stir in the sliced strawberries, blueberries, raspberries if using, and mini marshmallows. Mix just enough to distribute the ingredients evenly without bruising the fruit or crushing the marshmallows.
- Chill to Set: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the salad to firm up and the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Serve: Once chilled, serve the cheesecake salad cold as a festive, creamy dessert perfect for summer gatherings or holiday celebrations.
Notes
- Best served chilled to maintain texture and flavor.
- To make ahead, prepare the cheesecake base and refrigerate separately, then fold in fruit and marshmallows just before serving to keep them fresh and fluffy.
- Raspberries are optional but add extra color and tartness if included.
