Nana's Frozen Fruit Salad Recipe

Nana’s Frozen Fruit Salad Recipe

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Nana’s Frozen Fruit Salad is a delightful, vintage-inspired treat that combines the natural sweetness of fruits with a creamy, refreshing base. Perfect for hot summer days, family gatherings, or holiday dinners, this old-fashioned recipe is both comforting and indulgent.

Handed down through generations, this frozen fruit salad is cherished not only for its unique blend of textures and flavors but also for the nostalgia it brings to the table. The beauty of this dessert lies in its simplicity—easy to prepare, make-ahead friendly, and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s ideal as a side dish or a light dessert that doesn’t overpower your meal. With just the right balance of creaminess and fruity freshness, Nana’s Frozen Fruit Salad is bound to become a staple in your own family traditions.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
  • 1 cup sliced bananas
  • 1 cup strawberries (sliced or chopped)
  • 1 cup seedless grapes (halved)
  • 1 cup miniature marshmallows
  • 1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries (drained)
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup whipped topping (or whipped cream)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cream cheese and sugar. Beat until smooth and creamy. This forms the rich and tangy base that holds all the fruit together.
  2. Add the lemon juice and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated. The lemon juice adds a light zing that cuts through the richness.
  3. Gently fold in the whipped topping (or whipped cream) into the mixture. Make sure not to overmix—this step keeps the salad light and airy.
  4. In a separate large mixing bowl, combine all the fruits: crushed pineapple, sliced bananas, strawberries, grapes, maraschino cherries, and optional chopped nuts. If using marshmallows, add them in as well.
  5. Pour the creamy mixture over the fruit and gently fold everything together until the fruits are fully coated with the cream base.
  6. Line a loaf pan or square baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to make removal easier later.
  7. Pour the entire fruit and cream mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
  8. Cover with foil or plastic wrap and place in the freezer for at least 4–6 hours, or overnight for best results. This allows the salad to set completely.
  9. When ready to serve, remove the salad from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes. This softens it slightly, making it easier to slice or scoop.
  10. Cut into squares or scoop into bowls and serve chilled. Garnish with a few fresh fruit pieces or a sprig of mint for a beautiful presentation.

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