Description
This Caramel Crunch Cheesecake Fruit Salad is the ultimate dessert-inspired twist on classic fruit salad. With a rich, creamy cheesecake base, juicy seasonal fruits, and a sweet caramel crunch topping, this no-bake crowd-pleaser is fast to make and even faster to disappear. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or anytime you want something a little extra—this dish tastes like dessert in a bowl!
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- ½ cup milk
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar or caramel sauce (plus more for drizzle, optional)
- 4 cups assorted fresh fruit (e.g. strawberries, grapes, green apples, bananas)
- ½ cup toffee bits or crushed caramel candy (e.g. Heath bars)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (to keep fruit fresh)
Instructions
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In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
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Add pudding mix and milk; mix until thick and creamy.
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Gently fold in whipped topping and brown sugar or caramel sauce.
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In a separate bowl, toss chopped fruit with lemon juice.
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Fold fruit into the cheesecake mixture until fully coated.
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Just before serving, sprinkle with toffee bits or caramel candy.
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Drizzle extra caramel sauce on top if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese, sugar-free pudding, and low-fat whipped topping.
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
- Switch up fruits with what’s in season—blueberries, pineapple, or pomegranate seeds are great options.
- Wait to add the caramel topping until just before serving for maximum crunch.
- Not freezer-friendly due to fresh fruit and dairy content.
