Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! Whenever summer rolls around, and particularly around the Fourth of July, one of my go-to recipes is this delightful Red White and Blue Cheesecake Salad. It’s like a party in a bowl! Not only is it absolutely delicious, but it also has this vibrant, festive look that makes it perfect for any get-together. I remember the first time I made this for a family barbecue; my aunt, who’s notoriously picky about desserts, went back for seconds and thirds. I think that’s when I knew I hit the jackpot!
What I love about this salad is that it’s incredibly easy to whip up. You get the rich cream cheese flavor complemented by the freshness of strawberries and blueberries, plus a touch of sweetness from the mini marshmallows. Whether you consider it a dessert or a refreshing side dish, it’s hard to resist! Let’s dive right in, shall we?
What’s in Best Red White and Blue Cheesecake Salad?
Cream Cheese: The star of the show! It brings that creamy, luscious texture we all crave in a cheesecake without the fuss of baking.
Powdered Sugar: This sweet little ingredient not only adds sweetness but also helps achieve that velvety smooth consistency that makes this salad irresistible.
Whipped Topping: I often use Cool Whip for convenience. It adds lightness and fluffiness, making each bite of the salad feel indulgent yet refreshing.
Strawberries: These juicy beauties are halved to create pockets of sweet goodness throughout the salad. They bring a lovely tartness that balances the creaminess.
Blueberries: Oh, how I adore blueberries! They not only add a pop of color but also a burst of sweet juiciness with every bite.
Mini Marshmallows: These little pillows of sweetness bring a fun texture to the salad. Plus, they add a bit of nostalgia—who doesn’t love a good marshmallow in a summer treat?
Graham Cracker Crumbs: Optional, but if you want to capture that cheesecake texture, go for it! The crunch is a delightful contrast to all that creaminess.
Vanilla Extract: A dash of this aromatic flavor will elevate the whole dish, tying all the ingredients together beautifully!
Is Best Red White and Blue Cheesecake Salad Good for You?
Alright, so let’s talk health—because we all want to indulge without the guilt, right?
Cream Cheese: While it’s rich in flavor, it’s also packed with calories and fat. I like to opt for a light cream cheese to save some calories without sacrificing taste.
Fresh Fruit: Strawberries and blueberries are loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They’re not just pretty; they’re good for you too!
Mini Marshmallows: Okay, maybe not the healthiest option, but just a bit won’t hurt! They do add a nostalgia factor!
Overall, this salad is a fun treat! It’s sweet and creamy, featuring lots of fruits, making it a lighter dessert option compared to traditional cakes or pies. Just keep it in moderation, and you’ll be golden!
Ingredients
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
– 2 cups strawberries, halved
– 1 cup blueberries
– 2 cups mini marshmallows
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (optional, for texture)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
This recipe makes about 6 servings, perfect for a gathering or a summer picnic!
How to Make Best Red White and Blue Cheesecake Salad?
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. You want it to be luscious, so really get in there!
2. Next, fold in the whipped topping and vanilla extract until everything is well incorporated. Feel free to sneak a taste (wink)!
3. Gently add in the halved strawberries, blueberries, and mini marshmallows to the cream cheese mixture. If you’re feeling adventurous and want that cheesecake texture, fold in the graham cracker crumbs.
4. Gently stir until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the cream cheese mixture. Be gentle, we want to keep those lovely fruit pieces intact!
5. Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it extra refreshing.
6. Serve chilled! You can even garnish it with some additional fresh fruit for a festive look. Enjoy your refreshing Red White and Blue Cheesecake Salad!
Delicious Twists and Serving Suggestions!
This salad is super versatile! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:
– Add a splash of lemon or lime juice for a zesty twist!
– Swap out the mini marshmallows for some finely chopped nuts for added crunch.
– Use different fruits, like raspberries or blackberries, to keep things exciting.
And don’t forget: this salad is a hit at BBQs, potlucks, or any summer picnic! I promise, once you bring it to the table, it won’t last long.
So what are you waiting for? Get those mixing bowls ready, and let’s whip up this refreshing Red White and Blue Cheesecake Salad together! And once you do, feel free to reach out and tell me how it turned out. I’d love to hear about your summer celebrations!
