Name: Caramel Crunch Cheesecake Fruit Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 package (3.4 oz) instant cheesecake pudding mix; 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk; 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip); 1/4 cup caramel sauce, plus more for drizzling; 1/2 cup toffee bits or crushed caramel candies; 1 cup strawberries, hulled and chopped; 1 cup seedless grapes, halved; 1 apple, diced; 1 banana, sliced; 1 cup pineapple chunks; Optional: 1/4 cup chopped nuts or mini marshmallows

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Caramel Crunch Cheesecake Fruit Salad is a creamy, sweet, and slightly tangy dessert that blends fresh fruit with a rich cheesecake-style filling and crispy caramel bits. I love how this dish turns a simple fruit salad into something indulgent and unexpected. It’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, or anytime I want to impress with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe feels like a fusion of a no-bake cheesecake and a fruit salad, with a hint of crunch that keeps every bite interesting. It’s easy to put together, incredibly versatile with the fruits I have on hand, and it disappears fast every time I bring it to a party. The caramel crunch adds texture, while the creamy filling balances out the sweetness of the fruit beautifully.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cream cheese, softened
Instant cheesecake pudding mix
Heavy cream or whole milk
Whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Caramel sauce
Toffee bits or crushed caramel candies (for crunch)
Strawberries
Grapes
Apples
Bananas
Pineapple chunks
Optional: chopped nuts or mini marshmallows for extra texture

Directions

I start by beating the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
I add the dry cheesecake pudding mix and slowly beat in the milk or cream until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
I fold in the whipped topping to lighten the filling.
I gently stir in the chopped fruits—strawberries, grapes, apples, bananas, and pineapple. I make sure the fruit is dry so the salad doesn’t become watery.
I drizzle caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle in the toffee bits or crushed caramel candies for that sweet, crunchy finish.
I chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors come together and the filling firm up slightly.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 8 to 10 people. Prep time takes 20 minutes, and I recommend chilling it for at least 30 minutes before serving. Total time is around 50 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes swap in blueberries, raspberries, or mandarin oranges depending on what’s in season. For extra crunch, I’ve added chopped pecans or granola just before serving. If I want a lighter version, I use low-fat cream cheese and whipped topping. I’ve also stirred in crushed graham crackers to boost that cheesecake flavor.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container. Since the fruit can release moisture, I stir it gently before serving again. I don’t freeze this dish or reheat it—it’s meant to be enjoyed chilled and fresh.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare it a few hours in advance and chill it until ready to serve. I wait to add the caramel and crunch topping until just before serving for the best texture.

What fruits work best in this salad?

I like a mix of firm and juicy fruits—grapes, strawberries, apples, and pineapple work really well. Bananas are good too, but I add them last to keep them from browning.

Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Yes, I’ve used freshly whipped cream and it works great. I just make sure it’s whipped to stiff peaks so the salad holds its shape.

How do I keep the apples and bananas from browning?

I toss them in a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad. It helps preserve their color and adds a subtle brightness.

Can I use caramel bits instead of toffee?

Absolutely. I’ve used chopped caramel candies or store-bought caramel chips when I wanted more of a chewy texture rather than a crunch.

Conclusion

Caramel Crunch Cheesecake Fruit Salad is one of those easy desserts that always steals the show. It’s creamy, fruity, and full of texture with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. I love how adaptable it is and how quickly it comes together with ingredients I usually have on hand. Whether I’m serving it at a gathering or keeping it all to myself, this salad is pure comfort in every bite.

Caramel Crunch Cheesecake Fruit Salad