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Grandma’s Chilled Fruit Delight Recipe (Retro Frozen Fruit Salad)

Looking for a refreshing, fruity dessert that’s cool, creamy, and nostalgic? Grandma’s Chilled Fruit Delight is a retro-style frozen fruit salad that brings back warm memories of family get-togethers and summer picnics. Made with cream cheese, whipped cream, vibrant fruits, and a sprinkle of pecans, this easy no-bake dessert is both delightful and delicious.

Perfect for hot days, make-ahead parties, or simply when you want a fruity, creamy treat with minimal effort

Recipe Summary

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Freeze Time: 4+ hours
Total Time: ~4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 12–15 squares
Method: No-Bake / Freezer Dessert
Cuisine: American Retro Dessert
Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

1 (8-ounce) package softened cream cheese
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup whipped heavy cream (or whipped topping)
1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
1 (10-ounce) package frozen strawberries or raspberries, slightly thawed and chopped
1 (11-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/3 cup halved maraschino cherries
2 ripe bananas, sliced
Juice of 1 lemon

How to Make Grandma’s Chilled Fruit Delight (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, beat together:

1 softened 8 oz package of cream cheese
3/4 cup granulated sugar

Mix until completely smooth and creamy, with no lumps remaining.

Step 2: Fold in Whipped Cream

Gently fold in:

1 cup whipped heavy cream (or store-bought whipped topping)

This creates a light, airy texture that balances the fruit and richness of the cream cheese.

Step 3: Add the Fruits

To the creamy mixture, add:

1 can (20 oz) drained crushed pineapple
1 package (10 oz) slightly thawed and chopped frozen strawberries or raspberries
1 can (11 oz) drained mandarin oranges

Mix gently until the fruits are evenly distributed throughout the base.

Step 4: Mix in Extras

Add in:

1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/3 cup halved maraschino cherries

These ingredients give the dessert extra texture, color, and classic flavor.

Step 5: Prepare the Bananas

Slice 2 ripe bananas and toss them in the juice of 1 lemon to prevent browning.

Then gently fold the bananas into the fruit mixture.

Step 6: Freeze the Dessert

Transfer the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly using a spatula.

Cover with plastic wrap or foil and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Before serving, allow the dessert to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to soften slightly.

Then slice into squares and serve chilled.

Optional: Top with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh mint for a festive presentation.

Variations & Tips

Tropical Twist: Add shredded coconut or use macadamia nuts instead of pecans.
Fruit Swap: Try kiwi, mango, or blueberries for different flavor profiles.
Lower Sugar Option: Reduce the sugar to 1/2 cup or use fresh fruit instead of canned.
Texture Tip: For crunch, sprinkle granola or graham cracker crumbs on top before freezing.
Presentation: Use a silicone mold for individual servings or layer in dessert cups for a parfait-style treat.

Why You’ll Love Grandma’s Chilled Fruit Delight

No baking required – perfect for summer!
Make-ahead friendly – just freeze and forget.
Colorful and festive – ideal for holidays or potlucks.
Creamy, fruity, and nostalgic – a true crowd-pleaser.

Whether it’s for a Sunday brunch or a 4th of July BBQ, this creamy frozen fruit salad is guaranteed to steal the show.

Grandma’s Chilled Fruit Delight