Name: Hawaiian Creamy Fruit Salad with Tropical Goodness
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained); 1 cup mandarin orange segments (drained); 1 cup seedless grapes, halved; 1 cup diced strawberries; 1 ripe banana, sliced; 1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut; 1/2 cup mini marshmallows; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional, to taste)

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Hawaiian Creamy Fruit Salad with Tropical Goodness is a vibrant medley of tropical fruits folded into a rich, creamy base. Bursting with bright flavors and colorful ingredients, this easy-to-make salad brings a taste of the islands to your table. It’s sweet, refreshing, and perfect for holidays, barbecues, or whenever you crave a taste of sunshine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This fruit salad is sweet, creamy, and packed with tropical flair. It’s a no-cook recipe that comes together in minutes, making it ideal for busy days and last-minute gatherings. It’s also incredibly versatile—you can mix and match fruits based on what you have on hand. The creamy dressing enhances the natural sweetness of the fruits, offering a light and luscious finish.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
Mandarin oranges (canned, drained)
Bananas (sliced)
Seedless grapes (halved)
Shredded coconut (optional)
Mini marshmallows
Sour cream
Cream cheese (softened)
Vanilla extract
Sugar (optional, to taste)
Maraschino cherries (optional for garnish)

Directions

In a large bowl, gently combine pineapple, mandarin oranges, bananas, grapes, coconut (if using), and mini marshmallows.
In a separate bowl, whisk together softened cream cheese, sour cream, vanilla extract, and sugar (if using) until smooth and creamy.
Pour the dressing over the fruit and fold gently until everything is well coated.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Garnish with maraschino cherries or additional coconut before serving, if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Yogurt Option: Use vanilla yogurt instead of sour cream and cream cheese for a lighter version.
Nutty Add-In: Add chopped macadamia nuts or walnuts for crunch.
Tropical Upgrade: Include mango, kiwi, or papaya for extra island flavor.
Low-Sugar Version: Omit added sugar and use unsweetened coconut and fruit in natural juice.

Storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir before serving as the dressing may separate slightly. Do not freeze, as the texture of the fruit and dressing will be compromised. This salad is served cold and does not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this fruit salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it a few hours in advance. Add bananas just before serving to prevent browning.

What fruits should I avoid?

Avoid fruits that oxidize quickly like apples or pears unless serving immediately.

Can I use frozen fruit?

Frozen fruit will release too much water and become mushy, so it’s best to use fresh or well-drained canned fruit.

Is this salad dessert or a side?

It can be both. It’s sweet enough for dessert but commonly served as a side at gatherings.

How do I prevent bananas from browning?

Toss banana slices in a bit of lemon or pineapple juice before mixing into the salad.

Can I use whipped topping instead of sour cream?

Yes, whipped topping creates a fluffier texture and makes the salad sweeter.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Check packaging to be sure.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes, use plant-based cream cheese and sour cream alternatives, and ensure marshmallows are vegan.

How long can this sit out at room temperature?

No more than 1–2 hours, especially if it’s warm. Keep chilled until serving.

Can I add food coloring to the dressing?

Yes, for a festive look, a small drop of food coloring can be added to match themed events.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Creamy Fruit Salad with Tropical Goodness is a cheerful, creamy dish that captures the spirit of the islands. With its blend of sweet fruits and silky dressing, it’s a delightful addition to brunch tables, cookouts, and holiday spreads. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, this salad is a refreshing crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style.

Hawaiian Creamy Fruit Salad with Tropical Goodness

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Hawaiian Creamy Fruit Salad with Tropical Goodness is a vibrant, refreshing dessert or side dish packed with juicy tropical fruits and coated in a sweet, creamy dressing. It’s an easy crowd-pleaser perfect for picnics, potlucks, and summer celebrations.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including chill time)
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: No Cook
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pineapple, mandarin oranges, grapes, strawberries, banana, coconut, and mini marshmallows.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), and honey or sugar until smooth.
Pour the creamy dressing over the fruit mixture.
Gently fold everything together until the fruit is evenly coated.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to blend and salad to chill.
Serve cold and enjoy.