This dessert salad is a fun and colorful mix of cream cheese, whipped toppings, and fresh strawberries, blueberries, and marshmallows. It’s a perfect treat for any gathering!
I love how simple this salad is to whip up—just mix and chill! Plus, it looks so festive; it brings a smile to everyone’s face. Who can say no to that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: Use softened cream cheese for a smooth texture. If you need a lighter option, neufchâtel cheese works well too. It’s lower in fat but still creamy!
Cool Whip: I love using Cool Whip for its convenience. If you want a homemade version, you can whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar as a substitute.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add great flavor. If they’re out of season, you can use frozen ones—just thaw and drain excess liquid. Raspberries are a tasty alternative too!
Blueberries: These berries are essential for that patriotic look! Swap them with blackberries if needed, but you’ll miss the color contrast.
Mini Marshmallows: These add sweetness and texture. If you’re avoiding marshmallows, you could use chopped fresh apples or bananas for some extra fruitiness.
How Do You Get Creamy Consistency in Cheesecake Salad?
Achieving that perfect creamy texture is key! Start with room temperature cream cheese—this helps it blend smoothly. Here’s how:
- Beat the cream cheese on low until it’s smooth, then gradually add the powdered sugar. This prevents lumps.
- When folding in the cool whip, use a spatula and be gentle. Overmixing can deflate the mixture, so just fold until you see no white streaks.
- Let the salad chill in the fridge for an hour. This allows the flavors to meld while firming up the consistency for serving.
Easy Red White and Blue Cheesecake Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz cool whip (or whipped topping)
- 2 cups strawberries, chopped
- 1 cup blueberries
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cheesecake salad takes about 15 minutes for preparation and at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. So, you can whip it up in no time and let it chill while you prep for your gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or a whisk to beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. This ensures there are no lumps in your salad, making it velvety!
2. Sweeten It Up:
Next, add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese and mix well until everything is nicely combined. The mixture should be sweet and fragrant!
3. Incorporate the Cool Whip:
Now, gently fold in the cool whip. Take your time here; you want to keep the fluffiness intact, so use a spatula and fold until fully mixed.
4. Add the Fruits and Marshmallows:
Stir in the chopped strawberries, blueberries, and mini marshmallows. Mix carefully until all the fruity goodness is coated in that creamy cheesecake mixture.
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 1 hour. This helps all the flavors meld together and makes it extra refreshing!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, scoop the chilled salad into dessert glasses or bowls. Feel free to garnish with a few extra berries on top for that perfect finishing touch!
Enjoy this creamy, fruity salad that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning—ideal for barbecues and summer festivities.
FAQ for Easy Red White and Blue Cheesecake Salad
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese can be substituted for regular cream cheese without affecting the overall taste too much. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly less rich.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving again, as the mixture may separate slightly after sitting.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, making this salad a day in advance is a great idea! Just be sure to cover it tightly so it stays fresh, and give it a good stir before serving to reintroduce the ingredients.
What Should I Pair This Salad With?
This cheesecake salad is perfect on its own or served alongside grilled meats during summer BBQs. It also pairs wonderfully with other desserts or a light, refreshing fruit platter!
