This Peach Cobbler Cheesecake Fruit Salad is a fun twist on dessert! Fresh peaches mix with creamy cheesecake and a sprinkle of cobbler crust, making it a sweet, fruity treat.
It’s like a delicious party in a bowl! I can’t resist grabbing seconds, especially with that crunchy topping. Serve it on a sunny day, and watch everyone smile! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are the star here! Look for ones that are slightly soft to the touch. If peaches aren’t in season, you can use nectarines or even canned peaches (just drain well). I prefer fresh for the best flavor.
Whipped Cream: Fresh whipped cream adds lightness. If you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought whipped topping. Non-dairy whipped options are available too if you need a dairy-free alternative.
Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened so it mixes smoothly. If you want a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt. It will change the flavor a bit, but adds a nice tang.
Granola or Crushed Cookies: I love using granola for a crunchy topping. However, crushed cookies, like graham crackers or vanilla wafers, add a sweet touch. You can also use gluten-free options if needed!
Cinnamon: A sprinkle of ground cinnamon isn’t necessary but enhances flavor beautifully! If you’re not a cinnamon fan, simply leave it out or try nutmeg as an alternative for a different twist.
How Do I Ensure My Cream Cheese Mixture is Smooth?
Getting your cream cheese to a creamy consistency is key to this dessert. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with room-temperature cream cheese. This prevents lumps in the mixture.
- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the cream cheese until it’s fluffy.
- Add the powdered sugar gradually while mixing to help it blend well.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and lemon juice; both add great flavor while keeping the texture creamy.
Take your time here to avoid any lumpy cheesecake texture. Smooth is the goal!
How to Make Peach Cobbler Cheesecake Fruit Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fruit Salad:
- 4 large ripe peaches, diced
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup blueberries
For the Cheesecake Mixture:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 cup whipped cream
For Topping:
- 1 cup granola or crushed cookies
- Optional: ground cinnamon for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Peach Cobbler Cheesecake Fruit Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an extra 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In no time, you’ll have a fresh and creamy treat ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl and adding the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, beat the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy. This will create a delightful cheesecake base for your fruit salad!
2. Incorporate the Whipped Cream:
Once your cheesecake mixture is smooth, gently fold in the whipped cream. Do this carefully to keep the mixture light and airy. It should be well combined without losing its fluffy texture.
3. Mix the Fresh Fruits:
In another bowl, combine your diced peaches, sliced strawberries, and blueberries. Give them a gentle stir to mix the fruits together, making sure they’re ready to be folded into the creamy cheesecake mixture.
4. Combine Fruits and Cheesecake Mixture:
Now, carefully add the fruit mixture into the cheesecake mixture. Use a spatula to fold them together gently. Take your time to avoid mashing the fruits; you want those beautiful colors to stay intact!
5. Transfer to Serving Dish:
Once everything is combined beautifully, transfer the mixture into a large serving bowl or divide it into individual cups. This makes for a lovely presentation!
6. Add the Crunchy Topping:
Top your fruit salad with granola or crushed cookies. This adds a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy cheesecake. If you’d like, sprinkle some ground cinnamon on top for an extra hint of flavor!
7. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling period helps the flavors meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, scoop it up and enjoy your refreshing Peach Cobbler Cheesecake Fruit Salad!
Can I Use Canned Peaches Instead of Fresh Peaches?
Yes, you can use canned peaches! Just be sure to drain them well and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, so your salad doesn’t become too watery. Cut them into similar-sized pieces to keep the texture consistent with the other fruits.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this fruit salad dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use coconut whipped cream or a non-dairy whipping cream. Ensure the powdered sugar is also dairy-free, which most are, but it’s always good to check the label!
What Other Fruits Can I Add to This Salad?
You can definitely get creative with the fruits! Try adding diced apples, pears, or even grapes for extra sweetness and variety. Just make sure the fruits you choose are ripe and complementary to the peach flavor.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The granola or crushed cookies may become soft, so consider adding them just before serving if you want to keep that crunchy texture!
