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This Hawaiian cheesecake salad brings together a medley of colorful tropical fruit blanketed in a creamy cheesecake dressing Each bite is packed with sweet freshness and a hint of indulgence making it my personal go to whenever I crave a vacation in a bowl
I first brought this salad to a family barbecue and it disappeared before any of the main dishes were gone Now my relatives ask for it every summer and I love watching everyone scoop up seconds
Ingredients
- Fresh strawberries: offer a burst of red sweetness Choose berries that are fragrant and bright for best flavor
- Mandarin oranges: give a citrus pop Look for the kind packed in juice not syrup for a lighter taste
- Pineapple chunks: bring tangy tropical flavor Fresh is best but canned in juice works well too
- Kiwi fruit: adds a tart green twist Pick kiwis that yield gently to touch for perfect ripeness
- Mangoes: provide rich creaminess Use mangoes with a little give and sweet aroma
- Cream cheese: creates the luscious base Allow it to fully soften for easy blending
- Instant cheesecake flavored pudding: infuses the salad with deep cheesecake taste Choose a reliable brand for best results
- French vanilla coffee creamer: makes the whole dressing silky with extra vanilla notes Go for a rich and creamy kind
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Fruit
- Wash and prep all fruit making sure to quarter strawberries slice and halve kiwi and cube mango Toss gently together in a large bowl being careful not to break up the pieces
- Make the Cheesecake Dressing
- In a separate mixing bowl fully beat the softened cream cheese until smooth This step ensures a silky texture in your dressing
- Combine Pudding and Creamer
- Add the instant pudding mix and slowly pour in the coffee creamer Beat the mixture first on low just until there are no lumps then increase the speed to medium high Continue beating until it becomes completely smooth and slightly thickened
- Mix and Chill
- Pour the creamy cheesecake mixture all over the prepared fruit Use a wide spatula to gently fold the fruit and cream together making sure every bite gets coated Cover the salad tightly and refrigerate for at least four hours so the flavors can blend and the dressing can thicken
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Storage Tips
Keep the salad well covered in the refrigerator to preserve freshness It will stay good for up to two days but for the best texture eat it on the first day If you see the dressing thinning just give it a gentle stir before serving
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find mangoes you can use papaya or extra pineapple in a pinch Plain vanilla pudding can replace cheesecake pudding but will have more subtle flavor If you prefer a dairy free option try coconut milk creamer and vegan cream cheese
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Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad chilled in a big family style bowl or portion it into smaller cups for a festive look I love garnishing with extra fruit slices or a few toasted coconut flakes for extra island flair
Cultural Context
While not a traditional Hawaiian dish this recipe is a fun nod to the fruit rich culture of the islands combining popular flavors in a party friendly way It is a classic at summer gatherings across the mainland thanks to its bright flavors and creamy texture
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Which fruits are best for this dessert?
A tropical mix of strawberries, pineapple, mandarin oranges, kiwi, and mango adds vibrant flavors and color.
- → How do you keep the fruit salad creamy?
The creamy texture comes from blending softened cream cheese with instant pudding mix and coffee creamer, then folding it through the fruit.
- → Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?
Yes. This dish benefits from chilling for several hours, which allows the flavors to meld together and the texture to set.
- → Are substitutions possible for the creamer?
You can use plain or vanilla coffee creamer; milk or half-and-half can also substitute, though flavor may vary slightly.
- → How do you prevent the salad from getting watery?
Drain canned fruits well and gently pat excess moisture from fresh fruit before mixing to keep it creamy and not runny.
- → What’s the best way to serve this treat?
Serve well-chilled, either in a large bowl for sharing or in individual cups for a colorful, eye-catching dessert.