When warm weather hits—or when you simply want a refreshing, fuss-free dessert—Frozen Fruit Salad is the perfect go-to recipe. It’s colorful, creamy, lightly sweet, and incredibly simple to prepare. Even better, it’s versatile enough for holidays, potlucks, weeknight desserts, or as a cool afternoon snack. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this treat feels nostalgic yet modern, and it never fails to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Frozen Fruit Salad
✔ Minimal ingredients – Most versions use pantry staples and frozen or canned fruit.
✔ No baking required – Just mix, freeze, and enjoy.
✔ Feeds a crowd – It’s easy to double the recipe for parties.
✔ Budget-friendly – Fruit, whipped topping, and a binder are all you need.
✔ Kid-friendly – Sweet, colorful, and fun to eat.
Key Ingredients
Every frozen fruit salad recipe varies slightly, but here’s a classic foundation that creates a creamy, dreamy texture:
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Frozen mixed fruit or fruit cocktail – Think pineapple, peaches, berries, or mandarin oranges.
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Whipped topping or whipped cream – Adds the fluffy, airy texture.
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Sweetened condensed milk or cream cheese – Creates richness and helps everything set.
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Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional) – For a soft crunch and flavor contrast.
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Maraschino cherries (optional) – A classic old-fashioned touch.
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Mini marshmallows (optional) – Adds sweetness and extra fluff.
How to Make Quick & Easy Frozen Fruit Salad
Here’s a simple, reliable recipe that’s ready to freeze in minutes:
Ingredients
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2 cups frozen mixed fruit (berries, pineapple, mango, peaches, etc.)
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1 cup whipped topping (or 1 cup freshly whipped cream)
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½ cup sweetened condensed milk or 4 oz softened cream cheese
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½ cup mini marshmallows (optional)
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¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
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6–8 maraschino cherries, halved (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Fruit
If the fruit pieces are large, chop them into bite-sized chunks. Let them sit for 5 minutes to soften slightly, but keep them cold.
2. Mix the Base
In a large bowl, combine:
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Whipped topping
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Sweetened condensed milk or cream cheese
Stir until smooth and evenly mixed.
3. Add the Fruit and Extras
Gently fold in:
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Frozen fruit
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Marshmallows
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Nuts
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Cherries
Mix carefully to avoid breaking the fruit too much.
4. Freeze
Spread the mixture into:
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A loaf pan,
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A square baking dish, or
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Individual silicone cups.
Cover tightly and freeze for 4–6 hours, or until fully firm.
5. Serve
Let the frozen salad sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before slicing or scooping. Serve chilled as a dessert or refreshing snack.
Tips for Success
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Use partially frozen fruit, not rock-hard, to help everything blend smoothly.
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Don’t add extra liquid, or the salad may freeze too icy.
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Add coconut flakes or lemon zest for a tropical twist.
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Use dairy-free whipped topping and coconut milk for a vegan version.
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Freeze in popsicle molds for a kid-friendly frozen treat.
Flavor Variations to Try
Strawberry Banana Frozen Salad
Use sliced bananas, strawberries, and whipped cream with a splash of vanilla.
Tropical Sunrise Salad
Pineapple, mango, coconut flakes, and mandarin oranges for a bright, sunny flavor.
Berry Cheesecake Frozen Salad
Cream cheese base, mixed berries, and crushed graham cracker topping.
Final Thoughts
Quick & Easy Frozen Fruit Salad is one of those recipes that delivers maximum enjoyment with minimal effort. Whether you’re preparing it for a summer BBQ, a holiday spread, or simply satisfying a sweet craving at home, this creamy frozen dessert is guaranteed to delight. With endless variations and almost no prep time, it’s a recipe worth keeping in your back pocket all year long.