Nana used to whip this up annually, but I never jotted it down. Stoked I stumbled upon something pretty similar!

Whisking us back to those sunny tropical getaways, Nana's Tropical Frozen Fruit Salad is a delightful blend of creamy textures and lush fruit flavors that offer a bit of summer any time of the year. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a sweet treat after dinner, this recipe is as adaptable as it is delicious, ensuring there's a spoonful of joy for everyone.

This frozen fruit salad is a versatile dessert that pairs beautifully with a light main course, such as grilled chicken or fish. It also makes a delightful accompaniment to a brunch spread, nestled next to fluffy pancakes or a savory quiche. For an extra special touch, serve it in decorative cups topped with a sprig of mint or a sprinkle of toasted coconut.

Servings: 8

1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped pineapple
1 cup chopped mango
1 banana, sliced
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts, optional)

1. In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with the heavy cream and sugar until smooth and creamy.

2. Stir in the vanilla extract.

3. Gently fold in the chopped pineapple, mango, banana, shredded coconut, and nuts if using. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.

4. Pour the mixture into a baking dish or individual serving cups. Cover with plastic wrap.

5. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firmly set.

6. Remove from the freezer about 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly for easier scooping.

For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Sweeten it up or down by adjusting the amount of sugar, or substitute with honey or maple syrup. Mix up the fruits depending on what’s in season; peaches, strawberries, or kiwi make wonderful additions or substitutes.