This fun Red White and Blue Cheesecake Salad is perfect for summer gatherings! Made with cream cheese, whipped topping, and fresh berries, it’s a sweet and colorful treat that everyone will love.
I like to serve this salad in a big bowl so everyone can dig in! The mix of flavors is refreshing, and trust me, you’ll be sneaking the leftovers if there are any! 🍓🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base of the salad, giving it that rich cheesecake flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using low-fat cream cheese. For a dairy-free option, a plant-based cream cheese can work well too!
Powdered Sugar: It sweetens the dressing and gives it a smooth texture. If you’re trying to reduce sugar, you can substitute with a sugar alternative like Stevia or erythritol, but adjust to taste.
Whipped Topping: I recommend using Cool Whip for convenience. You can also whip heavy cream to stiff peaks if you prefer to make it from scratch. For a non-dairy substitute, look for coconut whipped topping.
Fruits: Fresh strawberries and blueberries are a classic combo. You could add raspberries or blackberries for added flavor. Choose the ripest fruits for the best taste!
Mini Marshmallows: They add a fun texture. If you want a healthier option, you can leave these out or substitute with chopped nuts for crunch.
What’s the Best Way to Fold Ingredients Together Without Deflating Whipped Topping?
Folding is an essential technique for keeping your mixture light and airy. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a large spatula and a gentle hand. Start from the bottom of the bowl and scoop up the cream cheese mixture.
- Carefully lift and turn the mixture over onto itself, incorporating the whipped topping gradually.
- Repeat this motion until just combined. Avoid stirring too hard to maintain the fluffy texture!
This method ensures your salad remains light and creamy, making for a delightful dessert!
Red White and Blue Cheesecake Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8 oz) container frozen whipped topping, thawed (e.g., Cool Whip)
- 3 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 3 cups mini marshmallows
- Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 1 hour of chilling time in the refrigerator. So, in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve. Perfect for a quick dessert that makes a big impact!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Base:
Start by placing the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is the foundation of your cheesecake salad!
2. Folding in the Whipped Topping:
Next, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping using a spatula. If you want a little extra flavor, add in the vanilla extract at this point. Be gentle to keep the mixture light and fluffy.
3. Adding the Fruits and Marshmallows:
Now it’s time to add the fun ingredients! Gently mix in the chopped strawberries, blueberries, and mini marshmallows. Stir carefully until everything is evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
4. Chilling the Salad:
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 1 hour. This makes sure all the flavors blend beautifully and the salad firms up a bit!
5. Serving Up the Salad:
When you’re ready to enjoy, scoop the cheesecake salad into serving bowls. You can even garnish with extra berries on top for a colorful touch. Serve chilled and watch everyone dig in!
This patriotic salad is not only delicious, but it’s also a vibrant addition to any summer gathering, especially for 4th of July celebrations! Enjoy!
FAQ for Red White and Blue Cheesecake Salad
Can I Use Different Fruits?
Absolutely! While strawberries and blueberries are classic choices, you can mix in raspberries, blackberries, or even diced peaches for added flavor. Just make sure to keep the color scheme for that patriotic look!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cheesecake salad will stay fresh for about 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving again to recombine the ingredients.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad is perfect for make-ahead prep. You can prepare it up to a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld even more in the fridge. Just make sure to cover it well to keep it fresh!
What Can I Substitute for Whipped Topping?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can whip heavy cream to stiff peaks as a substitute. For a dairy-free version, look for coconut whipped cream instead of traditional whipped topping!
