I first came across this recipe during a sunny afternoon picnic with my family. We were at our favorite park, the kids were playing frisbee, and I wanted to bring something refreshing yet indulgent. I had a bowl of strawberries and bananas that were on the verge of overripeness, and I didn’t want them to go to waste. That’s when inspiration struck! I remembered a cheesecake pudding mix tucked away in my pantry, and the idea for this salad was born.
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity and versatility. The creamy blend of softened cream cheese and cheesecake pudding mix, lightened with a touch of vanilla coffee creamer, creates a luscious base that perfectly complements the fresh fruit. The hint of lemon juice not only prevents the bananas from browning but also adds a zesty brightness that ties all the flavors together.
One of the best things about this Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Salad is how easy it is to tweak to your liking. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a handful of blueberries or a sprinkle of granola on top for some crunch. The salad can be made ahead of time and chilled, making it a convenient option for those last-minute gatherings or potlucks.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite, and I hope it will become one of yours too. The blend of flavors and textures is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. So, whether you’re planning a picnic, a barbecue, or just need a sweet treat, give this Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Salad a try. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Salad
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Ingredients
- 2 pounds strawberries (hulled and sliced)
- 3 medium bananas (sliced into coins)
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 3.4 ounces instant cheesecake pudding mix (unprepared)
- 1/4 cup liquid vanilla coffee creamer
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Directions
Whip the Cream Cheese:
In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer on medium-high speed to whip the cream cheese until smooth. It might get stuck in the beaters, but keep mixing; it will loosen up.
Mix in Pudding and Creamer:
Add the dry pudding mix to the cream cheese and mix until combined.
With the mixer running on medium-low, gradually add the creamer, about a tablespoon at a time. Once all the creamer is added, increase the mixer speed to high and whip until smooth.
Prepare the Fruit:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, banana coins, and lemon juice. Stir until the fruit is evenly coated with lemon juice.
Combine Everything:
Gently fold the cheesecake mixture into the fruit using a spatula or spoon.
Chill and Serve:
Chill until ready to serve or serve immediately.
FAQs:
How can I prevent the bananas in the Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Salad from turning brown?
To prevent the bananas from turning brown, make sure to coat them thoroughly with the lemon juice as instructed in the recipe. The acidity in the lemon juice helps to slow down the oxidation process, which causes browning. Additionally, you can prepare and add the bananas just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.
Can I use a different type of pudding mix for this recipe?
While the recipe calls for instant cheesecake pudding mix to achieve the desired flavor and texture, you can experiment with other pudding flavors. For instance, vanilla or banana cream pudding mix can also work well. However, keep in mind that changing the pudding flavor will alter the taste of the salad.
Is there a substitute for the liquid vanilla coffee creamer?
If you don’t have liquid vanilla coffee creamer, you can substitute it with half-and-half or heavy cream combined with a teaspoon of vanilla extract. This will provide a similar creamy texture and vanilla flavor. Alternatively, milk can be used, but the mixture may be slightly less creamy.
Can I prepare Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a few hours in advance. It’s best to chill it in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve. However, if you plan to make it more than a few hours ahead, consider adding the bananas just before serving to maintain their texture and color.
What variations can I try with this recipe?
You can customize the Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Salad by adding other fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or pineapple. Moreover, you can incorporate nuts like sliced almonds or walnuts for added crunch. Experimenting with different pudding flavors, as mentioned earlier, can also create new and exciting variations.
Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Salad
Ingredients
- 2 pounds strawberries hulled and sliced
- 3 medium bananas sliced into coins
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 3.4 ounces instant cheesecake pudding mix unprepared
- 1/4 cup liquid vanilla coffee creamer
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer on medium-high speed to whip the cream cheese until smooth. It might get stuck in the beaters, but keep mixing, it will loosen up. Add the dry pudding mix and mix until combined.
- With the mixer running on medium-low, gradually add the creamer, about a tablespoon at a time. Once all the creamer is added, increase the mixer speed to high and whip until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, banana coins, and lemon juice. Stir until the fruit is evenly coated with lemon juice. Gently fold the cheesecake mixture into the fruit using a spatula or spoon.
- Chill until ready to serve or serve immediately.
