Name: Strawberry Cheesecake Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 pounds fresh strawberries, chopped

Why You’ll Love Strawberry Cheesecake Salad Recipe

This Strawberry Cheesecake Salad is as easy as it is delicious. You’ll love it because it’s:

Quick to make with no baking required
Light, creamy, and packed with fresh strawberries
Perfect for parties, gatherings, or an everyday treat
Customizable with different fruits or mix-ins
Kid-friendly and a family favorite
Elegant enough for entertaining, yet easy enough for a weekday dessert

Ingredients

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

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 pounds fresh strawberries, chopped

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
Add the chopped strawberries to the cheesecake mixture and stir gently to incorporate.
Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6 servings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Calories: Approximately 355 kcal per serving

Variations

Mixed Berry Cheesecake Salad: Add blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries alongside strawberries.
Banana Twist: Add sliced bananas right before serving for a creamy, fruity boost.
Graham Cracker Crunch: Sprinkle crushed graham crackers on top for a true cheesecake feel.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle with melted chocolate or chocolate syrup for a decadent touch.
Mini Marshmallows: Fold in mini marshmallows for extra sweetness and texture.
Pineapple Surprise: Add drained crushed pineapple for a tropical variation.
Nutty Addition: Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
Yogurt Substitution: Replace some of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a tangy, lighter version.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Due to the fresh strawberries and whipped cream, it’s best enjoyed shortly after making. Avoid freezing, as the texture may become watery upon thawing. Stir gently before serving again to recombine the ingredients. Reheating is not necessary or recommended, as this is a chilled dessert.

FAQs

What kind of cream cheese should I use?

Use full-fat, block-style cream cheese for the creamiest texture. Avoid whipped or spreadable varieties.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are best for this recipe. Frozen strawberries may release too much moisture and make the salad watery.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it a few hours ahead. Store it in the refrigerator and stir gently before serving.

How do I prevent the salad from becoming runny?

Use fresh strawberries and avoid overmixing. Add juicy fruits just before serving.

Can I use Cool Whip instead of whipped cream?

Yes, you can substitute whipped cream with an equal amount of Cool Whip for convenience.

Can I add other fruits?

Absolutely. Berries, bananas, pineapple, and grapes all work well in this salad.

Is this a dessert or a side dish?

It’s typically served as a dessert, but it’s sweet and light enough to be a side dish at picnics or potlucks.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can try dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping alternatives, but the texture and flavor may vary.

How long will this salad stay fresh?

It’s best within the first 24 hours but can be stored for up to 2 days in the fridge.

Can I use granulated sugar instead of powdered sugar?

Powdered sugar dissolves better in cold, no-bake recipes. If using granulated sugar, beat well to avoid grittiness.

Conclusion

Strawberry Cheesecake Salad is a fast, fresh, and creamy dessert that everyone will love. It brings together the rich taste of cheesecake and the brightness of strawberries in a simple, no-bake recipe that’s perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want something sweet without the fuss, this salad is a go-to favorite.