Description
Peach Cheesecake Salad is a refreshing, creamy dessert salad combining the smoothness of cheesecake flavors with fresh or canned peaches, mini marshmallows, and crunchy vanilla wafer cookies. This no-bake treat is perfect for summer gatherings or potlucks, delivering a delightful mix of textures and sweet, tangy flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Base
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1 box (3.4 ounces) instant cheesecake pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 container (8 ounces) whipped topping, thawed
Mix-ins
- 4 cups sliced fresh peaches or drained canned peaches
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
Topping
- 1 cup vanilla wafer cookies, crushed
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy, using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed.
- Add Pudding Mix and Flavorings: Add the instant cheesecake pudding mix, cold milk, vanilla extract, and lemon juice to the bowl. Mix until the ingredients are thickened and fully combined, ensuring a smooth consistency.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese and pudding mixture, being careful to keep the mixture light and fluffy.
- Add Fruit and Marshmallows: Carefully stir in the sliced peaches and mini marshmallows, take care not to break up the fruit pieces.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to set slightly.
- Finish with Cookies: Just before serving, fold in or sprinkle the crushed vanilla wafer cookies over the salad to add a light, crunchy texture.
Notes
- For best texture, add the crushed vanilla wafer cookies right before serving so they remain crisp.
- Use fresh ripe peaches for the best flavor, although canned peaches are a convenient year-round option.
- This recipe is ideal for make-ahead preparation, making it a convenient dessert for potlucks and summer gatherings.
