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Pineapple Pecan Cheesecake Salad

A no-bake dessert that combines creamy cheesecake flavor with sweet pineapple and crunchy pecans, perfect for potlucks and gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the base
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened Use full-fat for best results.
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 box (3.4 ounces) instant cheesecake pudding mix
  • 1 cup cold milk Using cold milk is important.
  • 8 ounces whipped topping, thawed
Mix-ins and toppings
  • 20 ounces pineapple chunks, well drained Press firmly to remove excess liquid.
  • 8 ounces crushed pineapple, well drained Important to drain well.
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut, optional
  • 1/4 cup maraschino cherries, optional For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Set your cream cheese out about 30 minutes before starting so it softens fully.
  2. Beat the cream cheese alone in a large bowl until it's completely smooth, with zero lumps remaining.
  3. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract into the beaten cream cheese. Mix on medium speed until light and fluffy.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk the instant cheesecake pudding mix with the cold milk for about two minutes until thickened.
  5. Pour the thickened pudding into the cream cheese mixture. Beat on medium speed until fully combined and smooth.
  6. Fold in the whipped topping gently until no white streaks remain.
  7. Press the pineapple firmly in a strainer to remove as much liquid as possible.
  8. Add the drained pineapple chunks, crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, and chopped pecans. Fold gently until combined.
  9. Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.
  10. Top with maraschino cherries and extra pecans before serving.

Notes

For the best texture, drain pineapple thoroughly, use full-fat cream cheese, chill for the full hour, and fold in whipped topping instead of stirring hard.