This fun Red White and Blue Cheesecake Salad is a tasty twist on dessert! It’s filled with creamy cheesecake flavors, fresh strawberries, blueberries, and crunchy graham cracker bits. Yum!
This salad is a hit during summer cookouts! I love how quickly it comes together. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, and I won’t say no to any extra creamy goodness! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base of the salad, giving it a rich and creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt instead. Just keep in mind that it will alter the taste slightly.
Heavy Whipping Cream: For the fluffiness, heavy cream is ideal. If you want a dairy-free version, you can use coconut cream or whipped aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas). It may not taste the same but offers a nice texture!
Strawberries and Blueberries: Fresh berries are essential for color and flavor. If you’re out of season, frozen berries work in a pinch, just thaw them before using. You can also swap these for raspberries or blackberries if you prefer.
Mini Marshmallows: They add a fun texture! If you’re looking for a different twist, try using chopped fresh bananas or even diced peaches. These choices will change the flavor and experience a bit, but it’ll still be tasty!
How Do I Properly Fold Ingredients Together?
Folding is a gentle technique used to combine ingredients without deflating them, keeping your salad light and fluffy. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by adding a small amount of the whipped cream to the cream cheese mixture.
- Using a spatula, scoop from the bottom and gently bring the mixture over the top.
- Rotate the bowl as you go, repeating this motion. Avoid stirring vigorously.
- Only fold until just combined; a few streaks of cream are okay.
Practicing this method will help you master combining delicate mixtures like whipped cream, keeping everything fluffy!
Easy Red White and Blue Cheesecake Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1 cup blueberries
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers (optional, for added crunch)
How Much Time Will You Need?
For this delightful salad, you’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and you should chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This allows all the flavors to mix together beautifully. So, in total, plan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, start by beating the softened cream cheese using an electric mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. This will serve as the base of your delicious salad.
2. Sweeten It Up:
Add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to your cream cheese. Keep beating until everything is well combined and you have a lovely, fluffy mixture.
3. Whip the Cream:
In a separate chilled bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream and whip it until stiff peaks form. This step is key for giving your salad a light and airy texture!
4. Combine the Mixtures:
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Be careful to mix it gently to keep the whipped cream fluffy.
5. Add the Fruits and Marshmallows:
Now it’s time to fold in those beautiful chopped strawberries, blueberries, and mini marshmallows. This is where the salad gets its festive red, white, and blue look!
6. Crunch It Up (Optional):
If you want an extra crunch, add in the crushed graham crackers and mix lightly to incorporate.
7. Transfer to a Serving Dish:
Carefully pour the mixture into a serving dish or a container. Make sure it’s evenly spread out.
8. Chill and Set:
Pop your salad into the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully and gives it a chance to firm up.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
When ready to serve, take it out of the fridge and garnish with additional fresh strawberries and blueberries if you’d like. Dive in and enjoy this refreshing, festive salad!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese as a healthier alternative! Just keep in mind that it may not be as creamy, but it will still work well in the salad.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Refrigerator?
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just note that the texture may change slightly as it sits, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Add Other Fruits to the Salad?
Absolutely! You can customize the salad by adding other fruits like raspberries, blackberries, or even diced peaches. Just keep the balance in mind, so it doesn’t become too juicy!
Is This Salad Gluten-Free?
This salad is gluten-free if you skip the crushed graham crackers or use gluten-free crackers. The rest of the ingredients are inherently gluten-free, so it’s perfect for those with dietary restrictions!
