Creamy Mango Fruit Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is vibrant, easy to make, and incredibly satisfying. The creaminess balances beautifully with the natural sweetness of the fruits, especially the rich, tropical flavor of ripe mangoes. It comes together quickly and can be customized with whatever fruits you have on hand. Whether served chilled as a dessert or a side dish, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ripe mangoes (diced)

• Pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)

• Grapes (halved)

• Bananas (sliced)

• Apples (chopped)

• Strawberries or other berries (optional)

• Sweetened condensed milk

• Heavy cream or all-purpose cream

• Vanilla extract (optional)

• Lime or lemon juice (to prevent browning of fruits like apples and bananas)

Optional Add-ins:

• Mini marshmallows

• Chopped nuts (like cashews or almonds)

• Shredded coconut

• Mint leaves for garnish

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the prepared fruits. Sprinkle with a little lime or lemon juice to keep them fresh.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.

3. Pour the cream mixture over the fruits and gently toss to coat everything evenly.

4. If using, fold in mini marshmallows, nuts, or coconut for added texture.

5. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

6. Garnish with fresh mint or extra mango pieces, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 to 8 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 30–60 minutes
Total time: About 45 minutes to 1 hour

Variations

• Tropical Only: Use only tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, banana, and papaya.

• Dairy-Free Version: Swap the cream and condensed milk with coconut cream and a touch of maple syrup or agave.

• Filipino-Style: Add nata de coco, kaong (palm fruit), and cheese cubes for a twist on Filipino fruit salad.

• High-Protein: Mix in plain Greek yogurt instead of cream for a lighter, protein-packed version.

• Chia Crunch: Add chia seeds for extra fiber and a fun texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Best enjoyed fresh, as the cream may become watery over time due to the moisture released from the fruits.
Do not freeze, as the texture of the fruits and cream will degrade.

FAQs

Can I use canned fruits in this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to drain them well and reduce the added sweetness to avoid an overly sugary salad.

What type of mango is best?

Use ripe, sweet varieties like Ataulfo or Haden for the best flavor and texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best to mix the cream in just before serving to maintain the fruit’s texture.

Is it okay to skip the condensed milk?

You can substitute it with a mix of cream and honey or maple syrup to taste.

Will bananas turn brown in this salad?

They can, so add lemon or lime juice to slow oxidation or add them just before serving.

Can I use frozen fruit?

Yes, but thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in the salad.

Is this fruit salad a dessert or a side?

It can be both! It’s sweet enough for dessert but light and fruity enough to serve as a side dish.

How do I keep the salad from getting too watery?

Use firmer fruits, drain canned or thawed fruits well, and serve the salad shortly after combining with cream.

Can I add yogurt instead of cream?

Yes, plain or vanilla yogurt is a great alternative and makes the salad lighter.

What can I do if the salad is too sweet?

Add more tart fruits like kiwi or berries, or balance with a splash of citrus juice.

Conclusion

Creamy Mango Fruit Salad is a delicious way to enjoy a medley of fruits in a rich, refreshing dressing. With its irresistible blend of textures and flavors, it’s a standout dish for any occasion—whether you’re cooling off on a hot day or serving something light and sweet at your next gathering. Simple, adaptable, and always satisfying, this fruit salad is bound to become a favorite.

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