If you have a craving for a refreshing and vibrant treat that brings a burst of tropical flavors to your table, then you are going to love this Mexican Fruit Salad with Cream Recipe. This delightful dessert perfectly balances juicy, colorful fruits with a luscious, creamy dressing that’s velvety and sweet without being overpowering. It’s the kind of salad that feels like sunshine in a bowl, making it a beloved favorite for warm days, family gatherings, or any time you want to impress with minimal fuss but maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Mexican Fruit Salad with Cream Recipe is simple, yet each component plays an essential role in creating its signature taste and texture. From creamy and sweet to fresh and fruity, these ingredients come together beautifully.
- 1/2 cup crema: The heart of the cream dressing that adds a tangy and smooth texture, typical in Mexican desserts.
- 1/3 cup sweetened condensed milk: This brings a sweet richness that perfectly complements the creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla: Adds a warm, aromatic note that elevates the overall flavor.
- 1 cup diced watermelon: Juicy and hydrating with a subtle sweetness, watermelon keeps this salad refreshing.
- 1 cup diced papaya: Provides a soft, tropical flavor and vibrant color.
- 1 cup diced strawberries: Adds a pleasant tartness and bright red bursts of color.
- 1 cup diced mango: Brings a rich, sweet tropical aroma that’s unforgettable.
- 1 cup cubed pineapples: Offers a tangy zing and sharp contrast that balances the sweetness.
How to Make Mexican Fruit Salad with Cream Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Mixture
Start by combining the crema, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla in a bowl. Stir everything together until it’s perfectly smooth and creamy. This mixture is the luscious base that will coat the fruit with a velvety, sweet tang.
Step 2: Mix the Fresh Fruits
In a large bowl, gently fold together all the diced watermelon, papaya, strawberries, mango, and pineapples. Be careful to mix gently so the delicate fruits don’t get crushed. Also, drain any excess juice that collects at the bottom to keep the salad from becoming too watery once the cream mixture is added.
Step 3: Combine Fruits and Cream
Pour the cream mixture over the fruit and gently toss until every piece is lightly coated. The creamy dressing will cling to the fruit, creating that signature luscious texture you’re aiming for.
Step 4: Chill and Let Flavors Marry
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour, though longer chilling allows the flavors to deepen and the cream to thicken slightly. This step is key—it turns the salad from good to truly irresistible.
How to Serve Mexican Fruit Salad with Cream Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of delight, sprinkle the salad with finely chopped fresh mint or a handful of toasted coconut flakes. These garnishes add a fresh bite and subtle crunch that elevate the experience.
Side Dishes
This creamy fruit salad pairs wonderfully with light dishes like grilled chicken or fish, making it an ideal side or dessert at a summer barbecue. It’s also perfect alongside spicy Mexican favorites to contrast and temper the heat.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this Mexican Fruit Salad with Cream Recipe in individual mason jars for a charming presentation, or layer it in clear glasses for a pretty parfait effect. Adding a sprig of fresh mint or a thin wedge of lime on top creates an inviting, festive look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This fruit salad keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The cream may separate slightly over time, so a gentle stir before serving restores its smooth texture.
Freezing
Because of the fresh fruit’s delicate nature and the creamy dressing, freezing is not recommended. The texture would suffer, and the cream can curdle, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold, so reheating is not applicable. Serve directly from the fridge for the whole taste and texture experience.
FAQs
Can I use yogurt instead of crema?
Absolutely! Plain yogurt, especially Mexican-style or whole-milk yogurt, can be substituted for crema to maintain that creamy texture with a slightly tangier taste.
What fruits can I add or substitute in this recipe?
Feel free to experiment with fruits like kiwi, oranges, or grapes. Just keep in mind the balance between sweet and tangy to keep that classic flavor harmony in the Mexican Fruit Salad with Cream Recipe.
Is sweetened condensed milk necessary?
Sweetened condensed milk provides essential sweetness and richness, but you can adjust the amount or substitute with honey or agave syrup if preferred, keeping in mind the overall sweetness.
How long should I chill the salad?
At least one hour is important for flavors to meld, but letting it chill for two to three hours enhances the creaminess and depth of flavors even more.
Can I prepare this salad ahead for parties?
Yes! It’s a great make-ahead dessert. Just prepare it in the morning or the night before and keep chilled until serving to wow your guests with fresh, creamy goodness.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Mexican Fruit Salad with Cream Recipe that makes it a standout on any table. Its joyful combination of fresh, vibrant fruit with a smooth, sweet cream dressing is a simple pleasure worth sharing. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy fruit that feels like a little celebration in every bite.
Print
Mexican Fruit Salad with Cream Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
A refreshing and creamy Mexican fruit salad featuring a mix of tropical fruits tossed in a luscious blend of crema, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla. Perfect as a sweet snack or dessert, this salad is chilled to meld flavors and deliver a cool, fruity treat.
Ingredients
Dressing
- 1/2 cup crema
- 1/3 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fruits
- 1 cup diced watermelon
- 1 cup diced papaya
- 1 cup diced strawberries
- 1 cup diced mango
- 1 cup cubed pineapples
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a bowl, whisk together the crema, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. Set this creamy mixture aside.
- Combine the fruits: In a large bowl, gently fold the diced watermelon, papaya, strawberries, mango, and pineapple together. Take care to mix without mashing the fruits. Drain any excess liquid that gathers to keep the salad from becoming watery.
- Incorporate dressing and fruits: Pour the prepared cream mixture over the fruit and gently fold to coat all the fruit pieces evenly, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
- Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld and serve chilled. For best results, let it rest longer.
Notes
- Crema can be substituted with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a similar tangy creaminess.
- Use ripe, fresh fruits for the best flavor and texture.
- Drain excess fruit juices to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
- This salad is best served cold and can be prepared a few hours ahead of time.
- Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of sweetened condensed milk.
