This festive cheesecake salad combines creamy cheesecake flavors with fresh strawberries, blueberries, and fluffy whipped cream. It’s a fun and colorful treat for any celebration!
You can whip this up in no time, and it looks great on the table! I love how light and tasty it is—perfect for summer BBQs or just because! Plus, it tastes like happiness in every bite. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This gives the salad its cheesecake flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider using low-fat cream cheese. You can also substitute with mascarpone for a different twist.
Powdered Sugar: Essential for sweetness without the graininess of granulated sugar. If you’re watching your sugar intake, try a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener or erythritol.
Whipped Topping: I love using Cool Whip for its easy texture, but you can whip your own heavy cream for a fresher taste. Just make sure to stabilize it with a bit of powdered sugar or cornstarch.
Miniature Marshmallows: These provide a fun, fluffy texture. If you want to avoid sugar, look for sugar-free marshmallows or cut up larger marshmallows into smaller pieces.
Fresh Fruits: Strawberries and blueberries offer vibrant colors and delicious flavors. Feel free to swap or add in raspberries or even diced peaches for variety!
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Is Well Combined?
Getting the right mix is key for a creamy texture. Here’s how to do it smoothly:
- Beat the cream cheese until it’s super creamy before adding sugar and vanilla. This helps prevent lumps.
- When folding in the whipped topping, use a spatula and gentle motions. This keeps the airiness and lightness intact.
- For the final fruits and marshmallows, add them in last. Stir carefully to maintain their shape. A gentle fold here works well!
- Chill for a good 2 hours! This lets the flavors meld and the marshmallows soften, enhancing the taste and texture.
Easy Red White and Blue Cheesecake Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tub (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed (e.g., Cool Whip)
- 4 cups miniature marshmallows
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 10 minutes of prep time. After that, you’ll need to chill it in the fridge for at least 2 hours. So, you can have a total of about 2 hours and 10 minutes before your salad is ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Cream Cheese Base:
Start by placing the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract into a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer or a whisk, blend them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy—this will be your base. You want it to be light and fluffy!
2. Fold in the Whipped Topping:
Next, take the thawed whipped topping and add it to your cream cheese mixture. Use a spatula to gently fold the whipped topping into the mixture. Be careful not to overmix—this helps keep the salad light and airy!
3. Add the Fun Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add in the miniature marshmallows, strawberries, and blueberries. Gently stir everything together until the fruit is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Make sure to be gentle so the fruit doesn’t get squished!
4. Chill and Set:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and lets the marshmallows soften a little.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, scoop the salad into serving bowls or dishes. It looks great on a festive table! Enjoy this creamy, delicious salad at picnics, parties, or just for a special treat!
Enjoy your refreshing red, white, and blue cheesecake salad!
FAQ for Easy Red White and Blue Cheesecake Salad
Can I Use Fresh Whipped Cream Instead of Frozen Topping?
Yes, absolutely! Fresh whipped cream adds a light texture and richer flavor. Just make sure to stabilize it with a bit of powdered sugar so it holds its shape in the salad.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again, as the ingredients may settle a bit.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to develop even more, enhancing the overall taste!
What Other Fruits Can I Add?
You can mix in other berries like raspberries or blackberries, or even diced fruits like peaches or kiwi. Just be mindful of the colors to keep it festive!
