Nana’s Frozen Fruit Salad

Step back in time and savor the nostalgia with Nana’s Frozen Fruit Salad. This timeless recipe has been passed down through generations, bringing joy and delight to family gatherings and special occasions. Bursting with the vibrant flavors of fresh fruit, creamy cream cheese, and crunchy pecans, this frozen fruit salad is a refreshing and indulgent treat that’s perfect for any time of year. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, celebrating a holiday, or simply craving a sweet escape, this delightful dessert is sure to become a beloved favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup heavy cream, whipped to soft peaks
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
• 1 (10-ounce) package frozen strawberries or raspberries, slightly thawed and chopped
• 1 (11-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/3 cup maraschino cherries, halved
• 2 ripe bananas, sliced
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the whipped heavy cream and granulated sugar to the cream cheese, mixing until well combined.
3. Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple, chopped strawberries or raspberries, drained mandarin oranges, chopped pecans, and halved maraschino cherries.
4. Add the sliced bananas to the fruit mixture and toss gently to coat, being careful not to mash the bananas.
5. Squeeze the lemon juice over the fruit mixture and stir gently to incorporate.
6. Transfer the fruit salad mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish or a freezer-safe container, spreading it out into an even layer.
7. Cover the dish or container with plastic wrap or a lid and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight, until firm.
8. Remove the frozen fruit salad from the freezer about 10-15 minutes before serving to allow it to soften slightly.
9. Serve chilled and enjoy every refreshing and creamy bite!

Cook Notes and Variations:

• For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese and whipped topping instead of heavy cream.
• Feel free to customize the fruit salad with your favorite fruits such as blueberries, kiwi, or pineapple chunks.
• Substitute walnuts or almonds for the pecans for a different nutty flavor.
• If you prefer a sweeter salad, you can add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the fruit mixture.

Keto and Low Carb Versions:

• To make this recipe keto-friendly, you can use a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia in place of the granulated sugar.
• Substitute the pineapple and mandarin oranges with low-carb fruits such as berries, avocado, or coconut.
• Omit the bananas or reduce the quantity to lower the carb content.
• Use full-fat cream cheese and whipped cream for a higher fat content.

Nana’s Frozen Fruit Salad is more than just a dessert—it’s a cherished tradition that brings loved ones together and creates lasting memories. With its luscious blend of creamy goodness and fruity sweetness, this frozen fruit salad is a delightful treat that’s sure to put a smile on everyone’s face. Whether you’re enjoying it on a hot summer day or as the perfect ending to a holiday feast, this classic recipe is a timeless favorite that will never go out of style.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use fresh fruit instead of frozen? Yes, you can certainly use fresh fruit in this recipe. Simply chop the fresh fruit into bite-sized pieces and proceed with the recipe as directed.
2. How long can I store the frozen fruit salad? You can store the frozen fruit salad in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent freezer burn.
3. Can I use other nuts besides pecans? Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or pistachios for added crunch and flavor.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the frozen fruit salad up to a day in advance and store it in the freezer until ready to serve. Simply let it soften slightly before serving.
5. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese? While Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter alternative, it may affect the texture and flavor of the fruit salad. You can try using a combination of Greek yogurt and cream cheese for a balance of creaminess and tanginess.
6. Can I add coconut flakes to the fruit salad? Absolutely! Coconut flakes would add a delicious tropical twist to the fruit salad. Simply sprinkle them over the top before freezing.
7. Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe? Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut whipped cream in place of the traditional cream cheese and heavy cream for a dairy-free version of this recipe.
8. Can I make individual servings of the fruit salad? Yes, you can spoon the fruit salad mixture into individual serving cups or molds before freezing for a fun and portable dessert option.
9. Can I add a splash of rum or rum extract to the fruit salad? Yes, a splash of rum or rum extract would add a deliciously tropical flavor to the fruit salad. Just be sure to add it to taste and adjust the sweetness accordingly.
10. Can I use canned fruit cocktail instead of individual fruits? While you can use canned fruit cocktail, keep in mind that it may contain added sugars and preservatives. If using canned fruit cocktail, be sure to drain it well before adding it to the fruit salad mixture.