This Easy Peach Cobbler Cheesecake Fruit Salad combines sweet peaches, creamy cheesecake, and crunchy toppings for a fun summer treat. It’s light, refreshing, and oh-so-delicious!
Whenever I make this salad, I can’t help but sneak spoonfuls while mixing! 😄 It’s perfect for picnics or just a sweet snack at home. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh peaches are essential for this fruity salad. If peaches aren’t in season, you can use canned peaches (drained) or frozen peaches (thawed). I love using a mix of yellow and white peaches for extra flavor!
Cream Cheese: This gives the salad its creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, try using low-fat or Neufchâtel cheese. Ricotta can also work for a slightly different taste.
Heavy Whipping Cream: Whipping cream adds lightness and fluffiness. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can substitute with whipped topping or coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Graham Crackers: They provide a nice crunch. If you’re gluten-free, you can use gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour. For a fun twist, try adding crushed shortbread cookies.
How Do You Get the Cream Cheese Smooth?
Getting the cream cheese perfectly smooth is important for a great texture. Start with softened cream cheese; leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing. Use a hand mixer or a whisk for best results. If it’s still lumpy, you can pop it in the microwave for 10 seconds to soften it further, but keep an eye on it!
Why Should You Fold Whipped Cream Into the Mixture?
Folding the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture helps maintain the airiness and fluffiness. Use a spatula, and gently cut through the center of the mix, then lift the edges over the top. Repeat until blended, but don’t overmix!
What’s the Best Way to Serve It?
To keep the topping crunchy, add the graham crackers or granola just before serving. This way, they won’t get soggy. For a pretty presentation, layer some fruit and cream mixture in a clear bowl or individual cups! Enjoy this sweet treat any time! 🍑
Easy Peach Cobbler Cheesecake Fruit Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4-5 fresh peaches, diced (or about 4 cups)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers or peach cobbler-flavored granola
- Optional: a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to keep peaches fresh
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and you can chill it for around 30 minutes if desired. Total time is about 45 minutes if you include chilling. Perfect for a quick dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Peaches:
Start by washing the fresh peaches thoroughly. Then, slice and dice them into bite-sized pieces, removing the pit. If you want to help keep them fresh and bright, you can toss them with a little lemon juice. This isn’t necessary but can help prevent browning!
2. Making the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until it’s nice and smooth. This step is crucial for getting that silky texture. Once it’s smooth, add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until everything is fully combined and creamy.
3. Whipping the Cream:
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This allows it to become light and fluffy. It should almost double in volume! Be careful not to overbeat it; you just want it to be thick and hold shape.
4. Folding Everything Together:
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to cut through the center, lifting the edges over the top. This keeps the mixture airy and light! Once it’s well combined, add the diced peaches and fold gently to coat them evenly.
5. Adding the Toppings:
Just before you serve, sprinkle the crushed graham crackers or peach cobbler-flavored granola on top. Gently fold these in to combine, but you can also reserve some for garnish to make it look extra pretty!
6. Serving Suggestions:
Serve immediately for the best crunch or chill the salad for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Either way, it’s sure to be a hit! Enjoy your delicious, creamy peach cobbler cheesecake fruit salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Peaches in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before dicing. This way, your salad remains creamy without excess moisture.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover peach cobbler cheesecake fruit salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The toppings may soften, but it will still taste delicious!
Can I Make This Dessert Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese mixture and chop the peaches a few hours ahead. Just wait to add the whipped cream and toppings until right before serving for the best texture.
What Other Fruits Can I Add?
Feel free to mix in other fruits for added flavor! Strawberries, blueberries, or even diced apples can work well. Just keep the overall volume similar to maintain the balance of flavors.
