Go Back

Creamy Fruit Salad With Nuts

A delightful fruit salad with a creamy dressing and crunchy toasted nuts, perfect for any occasion.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Fruit Base
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
  • 1 cup red or green grapes, halved if large
  • 1 can (11 oz) mandarin orange segments, drained well
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or 1 can, 8 oz, well-drained)
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries
  • 2 medium kiwi, peeled, sliced, and quartered
  • 1 cup fresh or canned peach slices, drained and cut into chunks
For the Creamy Dressing
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature Softened cream cheese is essential for a smooth dressing.
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
For the Nut Topping
  • 3/4 cup pecan halves or walnut pieces, toasted
  • 2 tablespoons honey (optional, to drizzle over nuts before toasting)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by toasting the nuts to allow them time to cool. Spread the nuts in a single layer on a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly for 4-5 minutes until they smell nutty and turn a shade darker.
  2. Wash and dry all fruits thoroughly. Hull and quarter strawberries, halve large grapes, drain and press canned fruits, peel and quarter kiwis, and cut peaches into bite-sized chunks.
Dressing Preparation
  1. In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sifted powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice, beating until light and fluffy.
  2. Fold in the whipped topping gently to maintain its lightness.
Assembly
  1. Pour the creamy dressing over the prepared fruit and gently fold to combine.
  2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  3. Before serving, scatter the cooled toasted nuts on top and serve straight from the bowl.

Notes

For best results, dry all fruits thoroughly before combining to avoid a watery salad. Prepare components ahead of time for ease.