Name: Creamy Fruit Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 cup seedless grapes, halved; 2 bananas, sliced; 1 apple, diced; 1/2 cup pineapple chunks; 1 mango, diced; 1/2 cup blueberries; 1 kiwi, peeled and sliced; 3/4 cup plain or vanilla yogurt (or sour cream); 2 tbsp sweetened condensed milk or honey/maple syrup (optional); 1 tbsp lemon or lime juice; Optional: 1/4 cup shredded coconut; Optional: 1/2 cup mini marshmallows; Optional: 1/4 cup chopped nuts or raisins

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy fruit salad is incredibly easy to make, comes together in minutes, and is highly customizable. It’s kid-friendly, crowd-pleasing, and can be adapted for different dietary needs. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a sweet treat, its cool, creamy texture and vibrant fruit flavors make it a go-to favorite year-round.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh fruit (such as strawberries, grapes, bananas, apples, pineapple, mango, blueberries, or kiwi)
Plain or vanilla yogurt, or sour cream
Sweetened condensed milk or honey/maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
Lemon or lime juice (to enhance flavor and prevent browning)
Optional: shredded coconut, mini marshmallows, chopped nuts, or raisins

Directions

Prepare the fruits: Wash and chop all fruits into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with a paper towel to reduce excess moisture.
Make the creamy dressing: In a medium bowl, combine yogurt or sour cream with sweetened condensed milk or syrup (if using) and lemon or lime juice. Whisk until smooth.
Combine everything: In a large bowl, add the chopped fruits and pour the creamy dressing over them. Gently fold until all the fruit is evenly coated.
Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
Serve: Give the salad a gentle stir before serving. Add optional toppings like marshmallows, nuts, or coconut just before serving, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Vegan: Use dairy-free yogurt and maple syrup as a sweetener.
Tropical: Use pineapple, mango, and banana with coconut yogurt and shredded coconut.
Berry Blend: Make it with just strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a berry-focused salad.
Protein Boost: Add a scoop of Greek yogurt-based protein powder or a spoonful of nut butter.
Dessert-style: Add mini marshmallows and chopped chocolate for a dessert twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Avoid freezing, as the fruits and cream may separate or become mushy upon thawing.
No reheating is required—serve straight from the fridge or slightly chilled.

FAQs

Can I make creamy fruit salad the night before?

Yes, you can make it ahead, but it’s best served within 24 hours to keep the fruits fresh and prevent them from becoming too soft.

What fruits work best in this salad?

Firm fruits like apples, grapes, pineapple, strawberries, and kiwi work well. Avoid fruits that release too much water, like watermelon.

How do I keep bananas from turning brown?

Toss banana slices in a little lemon or lime juice before adding them to the salad to slow down oxidation.

Can I use canned or frozen fruit?

Fresh fruit is best for texture, but well-drained canned fruit can work. Avoid frozen fruit unless fully thawed and drained.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as all added ingredients (like yogurt and condensed milk) are certified gluten-free.

How do I keep the salad from getting watery?

Dry the fruits well before mixing, and avoid using overly juicy fruits. Chill immediately after mixing to help maintain texture.

Can I use flavored yogurt?

Yes, vanilla or fruit-flavored yogurt can add extra flavor and sweetness. Adjust the added sweetener accordingly.

Is there a low-sugar version?

Yes, skip the sweetened condensed milk and use unsweetened yogurt with a small amount of honey or a sugar-free sweetener.

Can I serve this as dessert?

Absolutely! It’s a refreshing and light dessert that’s naturally sweet and creamy.

Can I add grains or seeds?

Yes, add a tablespoon of chia seeds or some cooked quinoa for extra nutrition and texture.

Conclusion

Creamy fruit salad is a simple yet versatile dish that brings together the natural goodness of fresh fruits with a luscious, creamy dressing. Whether you enjoy it as a side, snack, or dessert, it’s a refreshing, nourishing option that’s easy to prepare and loved by all ages. Customize it to fit your taste, and let it be a bright, colorful addition to any meal or gathering