Millionaire Cheesecake Salad Recipe

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Ingredients

• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 3 tablespoons confectioner's sugar
• 1/2 cup French vanilla dairy creamer (such as International Delight)
• 1 (8 ounce) frozen whipped topping, thawed (such as Cool Whip)
• 2 (15 ounce) cans mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 (20 ounce) can pineapple chunks in juice, drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can pear chunks, drained
• 3 cups miniature marshmallows
• 1 (16 ounce) jar maraschino cherries, drained, halved, and patted dry
• 1 (7 ounce) package sweetened flaked coconut
• 2 cups chopped toasted pecans
• 4 graham cracker sheets, broken into 1/2-inch pieces

Directions

Step 1: Gather all the ingredients together on your countertop for easy access.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes.

Step 3: Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue mixing until fully incorporated and smooth.

Step 4: With the mixer running on low speed, slowly pour in the French vanilla creamer and mix for another 1 minute until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.

Step 5: Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping using a spatula until fully incorporated into the cream cheese mixture.

Step 6: Add the drained mandarin oranges, pineapple, pear chunks, marshmallows, maraschino cherries, coconut, and toasted pecans to the cream cheese mixture. Carefully fold everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.

Step 7: Once everything is mixed, you can either serve the salad immediately or refrigerate it for about 1 hour to chill and allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 8: Just before serving, sprinkle the graham cracker pieces evenly over the top for a bit of crunch and extra flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	510
Total Fat	30g	39%
Saturated Fat	14g	69%
Cholesterol	19mg	6%
Sodium	137mg	6%
Total Carbohydrate	61g	22%
Dietary Fiber	6g	23%
Total Sugars	49g
Protein	5g	9%
Vitamin C	21mg	23%
Calcium	85mg	7%
Iron	1mg	7%
Potassium	321mg	7%

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Millionaire Cheesecake Salad

The Millionaire Cheesecake Salad is a decadent dessert salad that originated in the United States during the late 20th century. It was inspired by the popularity of layered dessert salads in American home cooking, particularly those served at potlucks, holiday gatherings, and family dinners. Combining the richness of a classic cheesecake with the light, fluffy texture of a fruit-filled salad, this dish quickly became a favorite for its balance of sweetness, creaminess, and crunch.

Regional Variations and Local Twists

This dessert salad is especially popular in the Southern United States, where combining fruits, nuts, and creamy mixtures in a single dish is a cherished tradition. In some regions, cooks substitute different fruits based on seasonal availability or local preference, such as adding fresh berries, mangoes, or even kiwi. Toasted nuts can also vary, with pecans being common in the South while almonds or walnuts are preferred in other areas.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While it shares similarities with classic cheesecake or fruit salads, the Millionaire Cheesecake Salad distinguishes itself by merging both concepts into a single dish. Unlike a traditional cheesecake, it does not require baking and incorporates a variety of fruits, marshmallows, coconut, and nuts. Compared to other dessert salads like Ambrosia or Eton Mess, this recipe emphasizes a creamy cream cheese base, giving it a richer texture and a more indulgent flavor profile.

Where Youll Typically Find It Served

This dessert salad is commonly served at family gatherings, potlucks, and festive holiday meals. Its visual appeal, with colorful layers of fruit and cream, makes it ideal for buffets and celebratory occasions. Some restaurants and cafes in the American South also feature this salad as a seasonal dessert option, often garnished with extra nuts or crumbled graham crackers for added texture.

Fun and Interesting Facts

• The term millionaire in the name refers to the rich and indulgent flavor rather than the cost or ingredients.
• Many variations exist where homemade whipped cream replaces commercial toppings to enhance freshness.
• Despite being a dessert salad, it often includes a surprising mix of texturesfrom creamy and soft to crunchy and chewy.
• It has become a nostalgic dish for many Americans, evoking memories of family celebrations and community gatherings.
• The recipe can be easily adapted to accommodate dietary preferences, such as using dairy-free cream cheese or sugar substitutes.

FAQ about Millionaire Cheesecake Salad Recipe

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