Caramel Crunch Cheesecake Fruit Salad

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Description
Caramel Crunch Cheesecake Fruit Salad is a sweet, indulgent dessert that combines creamy cheesecake filling with a variety of fresh fruits and a crunchy caramel topping. It’s a refreshing yet decadent treat, perfect for summer gatherings, holidays, or as a fun twist on traditional fruit salad. The balance of creamy, sweet, and crunchy textures makes this fruit salad irresistible.

Origin
This dessert is inspired by the flavors of caramel cheesecake and classic fruit salad. The creamy cheesecake filling is a nod to the richness of a cheesecake, while the caramel and crunchy topping add a delightful contrast. Combining these elements with fresh fruit creates a fun and decadent twist on the typical fruit salad.

Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream (optional for tanginess)
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
2 cups fresh grapes, halved
2 bananas, sliced
1 apple, chopped (optional)

For the Caramel Crunch Topping:
1/2 cup caramel sauce
1/2 cup crushed graham crackers or Nilla wafer crumbs
1/2 cup toffee bits or caramel crunch pieces

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, and beat until light and fluffy. If you’re using Greek yogurt or sour cream, add it now for a tangy flavor.
  2. Gently fold in the sliced strawberries, pineapple chunks, grapes, bananas, and apple (if using). Make sure the fruit is evenly coated with the creamy cheesecake mixture.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the caramel sauce, crushed graham crackers or Nilla wafer crumbs, and toffee bits or caramel crunch pieces. Stir until combined.
  4. Drizzle the caramel crunch topping over the fruit salad just before serving.
  5. Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.

Tips for Success

  • Use a variety of fresh fruits for the best flavor and color contrast.
  • Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the filling.
  • You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less powdered sugar to the cheesecake mixture.
  • For added texture, you can also mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts.
  • Serve immediately after adding the caramel crunch topping to maintain its crispness.

Recommendations
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a light, refreshing beverage like iced tea or lemonade.
Serve it as a side at barbecues, picnics, or potlucks, or as a decadent dessert for family gatherings and celebrations.

Nutrition (per serving, assuming 8 servings)
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 180mg
Cholesterol: 45mg

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