Nana’s recipes always had a way of wrapping you in comfort — and this Frozen Fruit Salad is no exception. It’s more than just a dish; it’s a trip back in time to family gatherings filled with laughter, the hum of conversation, and that special kind of love only found around the dinner table. Creamy, fruity, and perfectly chilled, this nostalgic dessert is the sweet taste of home — refreshing in summer, comforting in winter, and unforgettable all year long.
💖 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Nostalgic & heartwarming: Just one bite brings back cherished family memories.
Easy to make ahead: Perfect for holidays, potlucks, and family get-togethers.
Light, creamy, and fruity: A dreamy mix of cream cheese, whipped cream, and fruit.
Freezer-friendly: Keeps beautifully for days — just slice and serve!
🧺 Ingredients
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 cup heavy cream, whipped to soft peaks
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
1 cup sliced strawberries (fresh or frozen, thawed and drained)
1 cup mandarin orange segments, drained
½ cup chopped maraschino cherries (optional, for color and flavor)
½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for crunch)
Pinch of salt
🔪 Instructions
- Prepare the creamy base:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. - Fold in whipped cream:
Gently fold the whipped heavy cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and fluffy. - Add the fruit:
Stir in the drained pineapple, strawberries, mandarin oranges, cherries, and nuts (if using). Mix gently so the fruit stays intact. - Freeze the salad:
Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe dish, loaf pan, or individual serving cups. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil. - Freeze until firm:
Freeze for at least 4–6 hours, or overnight for best results. - Serve & enjoy:
Let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving for easier slicing. Garnish with extra fruit or whipped cream if desired.
🍽 Serving Ideas
Serve in slices or scoops on a hot summer day.
Perfect as a holiday side dish — a Southern favorite on Thanksgiving or Christmas tables.
Layer into parfait glasses for an elegant presentation.
Pair with pound cake or angel food cake for a dreamy dessert combo.
🍓 Tips for Success
Make sure the fruit is well-drained to prevent ice crystals.
For a tangier flavor, add a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Sweet tooth? Drizzle with a bit of honey before serving.
You can easily double the recipe for large gatherings.
🧊 Storage
Store: Covered tightly in the freezer for up to 1 month.
Serve: Slightly thaw before serving for a creamy, easy-to-slice texture.
💬 Final Thoughts
Nana’s Frozen Fruit Salad isn’t just a dessert — it’s a slice of family history. Each spoonful carries memories of laughter-filled dinners, handwritten recipe cards, and the kind of love that never fades. Creamy, fruity, and beautifully old-fashioned, it’s a reminder that the sweetest recipes are the ones that come from the heart. ❤️🍒
