Description
This Festive Frozen Cranberry Fruit Salad combines creamy textures, fruity flavors, and a delightful crunch for a dessert that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Perfect for the holidays, this no-bake, make-ahead treat is a crowd-pleaser that brings a burst of color and flavor to your table. With a mix of cranberries, pineapple, strawberries, pecans, and coconut, it’s festive, flavorful, and fun to make!
Ingredients
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 (14-oz) can whole cranberry sauce
- 1 (8-oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- ¾ cup chopped strawberries
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1 (8-oz) carton Cool Whip, thawed
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Base
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer.
- Continue mixing until the texture is smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Add the Fruit and Nuts
- Gently fold in the whole cranberry sauce, drained crushed pineapple, chopped strawberries, chopped pecans, and shredded sweetened coconut.
- Stir until all the fruits and nuts are evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese mixture.
Step 3: Fold in the Cool Whip
- Add the thawed Cool Whip to the mixture.
- Using a spatula, gently fold it into the fruit mixture until fully incorporated, being careful not to overmix to maintain the light and airy texture.
Step 4: Freeze the Salad
- Spoon the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish or individual molds if you prefer portioned servings.
- Smooth the top with a spatula for an even layer.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Before serving, let the salad sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes to soften slightly for easier slicing or scooping.
- Garnish with fresh strawberries, chopped pecans, or a sprinkle of shredded coconut for a festive finish.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Customize the Fruits: Feel free to swap strawberries for blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry twist.
- Toast the Pecans: For a deeper nutty flavor, toast the pecans before chopping.
- Cream Cheese Tip: Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the creamy base.
- Storage: Wrap leftovers tightly and store them in the freezer for up to one week.
- Serving Ideas: Serve as a side dish or a dessert at holiday gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American