Get ready for a treat with this Easy Peach Cheesecake Salad! It mixes sweet peaches, creamy cheesecake, and fluffy whipped topping for a yummy dessert that’s quick to make.
I love serving this salad at gatherings—it’s a crowd-pleaser! Plus, it’s so light and refreshing, you might just want to have it for breakfast too. Who says salad can’t be sweet? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are the star of this dish. If peaches aren’t in season, you can use canned peaches in juice (not syrup) or frozen peaches that are thawed, but fresh will give the best flavor and texture.
Cream Cheese: The texture of this salad really benefits from cream cheese, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese as a substitute.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This gives the salad its light and fluffy finish. If you want a lower-fat option, whipped topping can work, but avoid using it if you’re aiming for that creamy cheesecake flavor.
Mini Marshmallows: They add a fun texture, but if you’re watching sugar intake, feel free to skip them or replace with chopped fresh fruit or nuts for crunch!
How Do You Make Whipped Cream to Perfection?
Making whipped cream can be tricky if you’re not familiar, but with a few tips, you’ll get it right! Start with cold equipment—both your bowl and beaters should be chilled. This helps the cream whip better.
- Pour the heavy cream into the cold mixing bowl.
- Beat on medium speed until you notice soft peaks forming, then increase the speed to high.
- Once stiff peaks form, stop! Don’t overwhip it, or it can turn grainy and become butter.
Using heavy cream makes the salad rich, but always taste as you go to find your perfect balance with sugar and flavor! Enjoy your salad! 🌟
Easy Peach Cheesecake Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4-5 fresh ripe peaches, sliced thinly
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- Optional: 1 cup mini marshmallows or chopped nuts for texture
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare and then at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. Just enough time to kick back and enjoy while it sets!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Cream Cheese Base:
Start by placing the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat it until it turns smooth and creamy. This is the base of your cheesecake flavor!
2. Sweeten It Up:
Add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until everything is combined nicely—this will create a sweet, creamy filling that resembles traditional cheesecake.
3. Whip the Cream:
In another bowl, make the whipped cream. It’s best to use a chilled bowl for this! Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip, or it might turn into butter!
4. Combine Everything:
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. This will create a fluffy, light texture for your salad. Take your time and combine them well without losing that airiness.
5. Add the Peaches:
Now it’s time for the star of the show! Carefully fold in the thinly sliced peaches, making sure they’re well coated with the cheesecake dressing. You want to keep those lovely peach slices intact!
6. Optional Mix-Ins:
If you’d like to add some fun texture, fold in the mini marshmallows or chopped nuts at this stage.
7. Chill Out:
Cover the salad and store it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows all the flavors to blend beautifully!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, scoop the chilled salad into bowls or even into halved hollowed-out fruit for a cute presentation. Enjoy your creamy, dreamy peach cheesecake salad!
Perfect for a sweet dessert or a delightful side dish, this salad is sure to impress!
FAQ for Easy Peach Cheesecake Salad
Can I Use Canned Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can definitely use canned peaches! Just make sure to drain them well and pat them dry to avoid extra moisture in your salad. Fresh peaches do give a better texture and flavor, but canned can work in a pinch.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the peaches may soften slightly over time, but the flavor will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This salad is great for making in advance. You can prepare it a day ahead and chill it overnight. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh the texture.
What Other Fruits Can I Use in This Salad?
Feel free to get creative! You can add other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or even chopped apples for a different twist. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness to your taste if the fruits are particularly sweet!
