No-Bake Fruit Salad Cake

No-Bake Fruit Salad Cake

Ingredients:

For the Base:

• 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers or ladyfingers
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 (20 oz) can fruit cocktail, drained
• 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
• 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, drained
• Fresh fruits for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers or ladyfingers with the melted butter. Mix until well combined.
   • Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust.
   • Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the Whipped Cream:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Creamy Filling:
   • In another mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice, and continue to beat until well combined.
   • Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
4. Add the Fruit:
   • Gently fold the drained fruit cocktail, mandarin oranges, and maraschino cherries into the creamy mixture.
   • Pour the fruit and cream mixture over the chilled crust, spreading it out evenly.
5. Chill the Cake:
   • Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to set.
6. Decorate and Serve:
   • Before serving, decorate the top of the cake with additional fresh fruits if desired, such as more mandarin oranges, cherries, or any seasonal fruits you like.
   • Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan.
   • Slice and serve chilled.

This no-bake fruit salad cake is light, creamy, and full of fruity flavors, making it a perfect dessert for warm weather or any festive occasion. Enjoy!