This Red, White, and Blue Cheesecake Salad is a festive and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for holidays like the Fourth of July, Memorial Day, or any patriotic celebration. It combines creamy cheesecake filling with fresh strawberries, blueberries, and bananas for a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Easy to make and visually stunning, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese , softened
- 3.4 ounces instant cheesecake pudding mix , unprepared (1 small box)
- 1 cup liquid French vanilla creamer (See Notes for substitutions )
- 1 pound strawberries , cut into bite-size pieces
- 12 ounces blueberries , rinsed and dried
- 1/4 cup lemon juice , freshly squeezed (~1 large lemon)
- 4 large bananas , peeled and sliced
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Base
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the instant cheesecake pudding mix and mix until well combined.
- Gradually pour in the liquid French vanilla creamer , continuing to beat the mixture until it’s smooth, thick, and creamy. The consistency should resemble a rich cheesecake filling. Set aside.
Step 2: Prep the Fruits
- Wash, hull, and slice the strawberries into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a separate large mixing bowl.
- Rinse the blueberries and pat them dry with a paper towel. Add them to the bowl with the strawberries.
- Peel and slice the bananas . To prevent browning, toss the banana slices with the lemon juice in a small bowl until evenly coated. Add the bananas to the fruit mixture.
Step 3: Combine Everything
- Pour the creamy cheesecake mixture over the fruit in the large bowl.
- Gently fold everything together using a spatula until the fruits are evenly coated with the creamy mixture. Be careful not to mash the berries or bananas while mixing.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to chill.
- Give the salad a quick stir before serving to redistribute the creamy coating.
- Serve chilled as a light and refreshing dessert or side dish.
Tips for Success
- French Vanilla Creamer Substitute: If you don’t have French vanilla creamer, you can use whole milk, half-and-half, or heavy cream mixed with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for a similar flavor.
- Add-Ins: For extra texture, consider adding mini marshmallows, crushed graham crackers, or white chocolate chips.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1–2 days . Note that the bananas may brown slightly over time, but the lemon juice helps minimize this.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the creamy base and chop the fruits ahead of time, but combine them no more than a few hours before serving to keep the bananas fresh and the fruits firm.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Red, White, and Blue Cheesecake Salad is a show-stopping dessert that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. The creamy cheesecake filling pairs perfectly with the sweetness of strawberries and bananas and the tartness of blueberries, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. With its vibrant colors and patriotic theme, it’s a fun and festive dish that’s easy to whip up for any occasion.
Indulge in this creamy, fruity delight—it’s a sweet and patriotic treat everyone will love! 🍓💙🤍✨
Notes
- French Vanilla Creamer: This adds a subtle sweetness and rich flavor to the cheesecake mixture. If unavailable, substitute with milk or cream mixed with vanilla extract.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice works best to prevent browning and add brightness to the dish
