This fun Red White and Blue Cheesecake Salad is a tasty treat perfect for any celebration! Made with creamy cheesecake filling, fresh berries, and fluffy whipped topping, it’s a real crowd-pleaser.
You can’t go wrong with layers of strawberries, blueberries, and that sweet creaminess! I like to serve it in a big bowl, and my family loves picking out the berries—it’s like a fruity treasure hunt! 🍓💙
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is key for a smooth filling. If you’re dairy-free, consider using a vegan cream cheese alternative for a similar texture.
Powdered Sugar: This adds sweetness and a smooth texture. If you prefer, you can use honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener, but adjust the quantity and taste as you go!
Whipped Topping: Frozen whipped topping gives a light and fluffy texture. You can also whip your own heavy cream if you’re feeling adventurous; just beat it until soft peaks form.
Fresh Berries: Strawberries and blueberries are vibrant and delicious! If you can’t find fresh, frozen berries work too, but drain off any excess liquid after thawing.
Mini Marshmallows: These add a fun texture! For a lower sugar option, try using chopped apples or bananas instead for a fresh twist.
How Do I Make the Cream Cheese Mixture Just Right?
The cream cheese mixture is the heart of this salad. When mixing, it’s important to beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth. Here’s how to ensure it turns out creamy:
- Take your cream cheese out of the fridge 30 minutes before starting so it softens up nicely.
- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for the best results, and start on a low speed to avoid splatters!
- Add the powdered sugar gradually while beating to fully incorporate it.
- When folding in the whipped topping, be gentle—this keeps the mixture light and airy!
With these tips and tricks, your Red White and Blue Cheesecake Salad will be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy the refreshing mix of flavors!
Easy Red White and Blue Cheesecake Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tub (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed (e.g. Cool Whip)
- 3 cups strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1 cup blueberries
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Red White and Blue Cheesecake Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and needs at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. So, total time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it perfect for a quick and festive dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it’s nice and smooth. This step is essential for making the salad creamy, so take your time!
2. Add Sweetness:
Next, add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract into the bowl. Continue to beat the mixture until everything is well blended and creamy. This will ensure your salad has that sweet cheesecake flavor!
3. Fold in the Whipped Topping:
Now it’s time to add the thawed whipped topping. Gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture. Be careful not to overmix; you want it to stay light and fluffy!
4. Mix in the Berries and Marshmallows:
Add the chopped strawberries, blueberries, and mini marshmallows to the mixture. Carefully stir everything together so all the fruit and marshmallows are evenly distributed. You want to keep the fruit intact for a nice presentation!
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When ready to serve, scoop the salad into a large bowl or individual dessert cups. For an extra touch, you can garnish with a few more berries on top!
This no-bake, creamy, fruity salad captures the essence of the red, white, and blue theme perfectly, making it an excellent choice for your next holiday or summer get-together. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Fresh Whipped Cream Instead of Frozen Topping?
Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh whipped cream, just whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. Use about 1 to 1.5 cups of whipped cream to replace the 8 oz of frozen whipped topping, and gently fold it in like you would with the Cool Whip.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again, as it may settle in the fridge.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it a day in advance and keep it chilled in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. It actually tastes even better after sitting for a bit as the flavors meld!
What If I Can’t Find Mini Marshmallows?
If you can’t find mini marshmallows, you can chop regular-sized marshmallows into smaller pieces, or skip them altogether. Alternatively, you could substitute with diced apples or bananas for a fresh twist!
