Dessert

Cheesecake Fruit Salad with Caramel Drizzle Recipe

ByAndria Russo January 26, 2026January 26, 2026

Introduction

Cheesecake Fruit Salad is a delightful twist on a classic fruit salad, combining fresh, vibrant fruits with a creamy, tangy cheesecake-flavored dressing. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or a sweet snack that feels indulgent yet refreshing.

The image shows a clear rectangular dish filled with several colorful layers of a fruit dessert. The bottom layer is white and creamy, likely yogurt or whipped cream. On top are chunks and slices of fresh strawberries, green apple pieces, and banana slices, arranged evenly. There are crunchy granola bits sprinkled all over the fruits, adding texture. The colors stand out brightly against the white marbled surface beneath the dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 cups green apples, chopped
1 cup grapes (red or green), halved
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned), drained
1 cup bananas, sliced
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream (chilled)
1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the fruit by washing and cutting as needed—slice the strawberries and bananas, chop the apples, halve the grapes, and drain the pineapple chunks.
Step 2: Combine all the prepared fruit in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: In another bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Step 5: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and fluffy.
Step 6: Pour the cheesecake filling over the mixed fruit and gently fold to coat all the fruit evenly without mashing it.
Step 7: Drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the salad or serve it on the side for added sweetness.
Step 8: Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and serve chilled.
Step 9: Optional: Garnish with extra caramel drizzle or crushed graham crackers before serving for extra texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh, ripe fruit for the best flavor and texture; avoid overly soft or bruised fruit that might become mushy.
Swap caramel sauce for chocolate or strawberry sauce for a different flavor twist.
For a lighter version, substitute half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt.
Add nuts like chopped pecans or walnuts on top to introduce crunch.

Storage

Store the cheesecake fruit salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best eaten within 1-2 days to maintain the fruit’s freshness and the creamy texture. Stir gently before serving again. Avoid freezing as the fruit and cream mixture may separate and become watery upon thawing.

How to Serve

A close-up image of a clear glass dish filled with a layered dessert or salad, starting at the bottom with a smooth white layer of whipped cream or yogurt. On top, there is a layer of chopped green apples and sliced banana pieces, arranged evenly. This fruit layer is scattered with small piles of brown crunchy granola clusters. Above it, bright red strawberry slices are spread wide, some standing upright, showing their juicy texture and seeds clearly. The dish is full and colorful with fresh fruit and granola visible on every part. The white marbled surface underneath reflects soft light, adding brightness to the photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours before serving. Just keep it chilled and add any crunchy toppings like nuts or graham crackers just before serving to retain their texture.

What if I don’t have caramel sauce?

If you don’t have caramel sauce, you can omit it or use alternatives like melted chocolate, honey, or a fruit syrup to drizzle over the salad for extra sweetness.