This luscious fruit salad combines the creamy richness of sweetened condensed milk, tangy sour cream, and fluffy whipped topping with a vibrant mix of fresh and canned fruits like bananas, pineapple, cherries, strawberries, and kiwi. Gently folded together and chilled, it becomes an irresistible, creamy dessert perfect for potlucks, picnics, or any gathering. Its playful colors and nostalgic flavors always make it a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Uses simple pantry and fridge staples you probably already have.
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Ready in just 10 minutes—no baking required.
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Perfect make-ahead option for parties and family gatherings.
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Flexible: swap fruits based on season or preference.
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A guaranteed hit—even picky eaters will go back for seconds!
Ingredients
Canned and Sweetened Fruits:
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Fruit cocktail – Drained, chunky style for variety and color. Opt for juice-packed, not syrup.
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Crushed pineapple – Drained, adds tropical sweetness. Choose 100% pineapple juice.
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Cherry pie filling – For sweet cherry bites and beautiful pink color.
Fresh Fruits (Optional but Recommended):
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Bananas – Sliced, firm and yellow to avoid mushiness.
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Strawberries – Washed and hulled for tart, colorful bites.
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Blueberries – Plump, firm, juicy bursts.
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Kiwis – Ripe but not mushy, for tang and color.
Creamy Base:
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Sweetened condensed milk – Provides silky richness.
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Sour cream – Adds creaminess and balances sweetness (full-fat recommended).
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Cool Whip – Thawed, for light and fluffy texture (original, not lite).
Instructions
1. Make the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, whisk together the Cool Whip, sweetened condensed milk, and sour cream until smooth. This creamy mixture coats every fruit piece perfectly.
2. Combine the Fruits
Gently fold in the drained fruit cocktail, crushed pineapple, cherry pie filling, and sliced bananas. Use a broad spatula and fold from the bottom up to avoid bruising the fruit.
3. Add Fresh Fruits (Optional)
If using strawberries, blueberries, or kiwis, fold them in gently to preserve their shape and color.
4. Chill
Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to let flavors meld and the salad become delightfully cool and creamy.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Scoop into bowls or glasses and enjoy the creamy, fruity goodness! Perfect for a summer brunch, picnic, or casual dessert.
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