
This Quick & Easy Frozen Fruit Salad is a no-bake dessert that brings together creamy, fluffy textures with sweet, juicy fruit. It’s a perfect make-ahead treat for summer cookouts, potlucks, or family gatherings. With only 15 minutes of prep time, it’s a refreshingly simple way to cool down on a hot day—no oven required!
Whether you’re serving it in elegant squares or scooping it straight from the dish, this nostalgic American classic is sure to be a crowd favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only 15 minutes of prep—no cooking needed
- Creamy, fruity, and delightfully fluffy texture
- Perfect make-ahead dessert for warm weather
- Customizable with your favorite canned or fresh fruits
- Loved by both kids and adults

Ingredients
Main Components
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 8 ounces frozen whipped topping, thawed
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) fruit cocktail in juice, thoroughly drained
- ½ cup maraschino cherries, drained and halved
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Dish
- Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
Step 2: Beat the Cream Cheese
- In a mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
Step 3: Fold in the Whipped Topping
- Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
Step 4: Mix in the Fruit and Marshmallows
- Stir in the drained fruit cocktail, halved maraschino cherries, and mini marshmallows. Mix until evenly coated with the creamy base.
Step 5: Freeze the Salad
- Transfer the mixture to your prepared dish. Smooth the top, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and freeze for at least 2 hours.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from freezer 10–15 minutes before serving to allow it to soften slightly. Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Tips & Storage
Tips
- Swap in fresh diced pineapple or mandarin oranges for variety.
- For extra color and crunch, add chopped pecans or shredded coconut.
- Ensure all fruits are well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
Storage
- Store tightly covered in the freezer for up to 1 week.
- Let thaw slightly before slicing for best texture.
- Leftovers can be kept refrigerated for 1–2 days after thawing.
FAQ
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Yes! Use chopped fresh fruit, but be sure to pat it dry to avoid watering down the mixture.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. It’s best when made the day before and frozen overnight.
Is there a dairy-free version?
Use dairy-free whipped topping and vegan cream cheese to make it dairy-free.
Final Thoughts
Quick & Easy Frozen Fruit Salad is a dreamy mix of cool creaminess and fruit-filled sweetness. It’s the kind of nostalgic dish that never goes out of style—fun, colorful, and irresistibly fluffy. A perfect treat for warm weather or a cheerful addition to any dessert table.
Make it once, and it’s sure to become a go-to summer classic!
Share Your Creations
Made this Frozen Fruit Salad? Snap a photo and share it with #FrozenFruitSaladJoy or #EasyChilledDesserts on Instagram or Pinterest. Let your friends see just how effortless dessert can be!
Quick & Easy Frozen Fruit Salad
Ingredients
Main Components
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 8 ounces frozen whipped topping thawed
- 2 cans 15 ounces each fruit cocktail in juice, thoroughly drained
- ½ cup maraschino cherries drained and halved
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Dish
- Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
Step 2: Beat the Cream Cheese
- In a mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
Step 3: Fold in the Whipped Topping
- Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
Step 4: Mix in the Fruit and Marshmallows
- Stir in the drained fruit cocktail, halved maraschino cherries, and mini marshmallows. Mix until evenly coated with the creamy base.
Step 5: Freeze the Salad
- Transfer the mixture to your prepared dish. Smooth the top, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and freeze for at least 2 hours.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from freezer 10–15 minutes before serving to allow it to soften slightly. Slice into squares and serve chilled.

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