Ingredients
Topping:
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
- 9 graham cracker sheets, crumbled into small pieces
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
Cheesecake Salad:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3.4 ounces instant cheesecake pudding mix (unprepared)
- 1 cup liquid French vanilla creamer
- 8 medium peaches (about 4 pounds), pitted and cut into bite-size pieces
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Make the Topping:
- In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the brown sugar, butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until the mixture is bubbly and the sugar has melted.
- Stir in the crumbled graham crackers until they’re well coated. Spread this mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
- Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 10-12 minutes. Let it cool completely.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture:
- In a tall bowl, such as an 8-cup glass measuring cup, use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the dry pudding mix and beat on high speed until well combined.
- With the mixer on low speed, gradually pour in the French vanilla creamer, a tablespoon at a time, until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Combine with Peaches:
- Gently fold the peach pieces into the cheesecake mixture. Chill until ready to serve, or serve immediately.
- Serve:
- Just before serving, add the cooled topping to the cheesecake salad and stir to combine. Enjoy!
Tips and Variations
- Fruit Variations: While peaches are a classic choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other fruits like nectarines, plums, or berries.
- Creamer Alternatives: If you prefer a different flavor, try using caramel or hazelnut creamer instead of French vanilla.
- Nut Add-Ins: For extra crunch, consider adding toasted pecans or walnuts to the topping mixture.
- Healthier Option: Substitute Greek yogurt for part of the cream cheese for a lighter version of this dessert.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This peach cobbler cheesecake fruit salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days. However, for the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to consume it within 24 hours.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned peaches?
- Yes, you can use canned peaches if fresh ones are not available. Be sure to drain them well before adding to the cheesecake mixture.
2. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
- You can prepare the topping and cheesecake mixture separately a day in advance. Combine them just before serving to maintain the topping’s crunch.
3. What if my cream cheese mixture is lumpy?
- Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. If it’s still lumpy, try beating it longer with the electric mixer until it smooths out.
4. Can I freeze this dessert?
- Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the cream cheese mixture can change upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
This Peach Cobbler Cheesecake Fruit Salad is a delightful combination of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors, making it a perfect dessert for summer gatherings or any special occasion. Enjoy!