A refreshing and sweet twist on a classic dessert, this Strawberry Shortcake Fruit Salad combines the creamy goodness of whipped topping with juicy strawberries and soft pound cake pieces. It’s the perfect no-bake dessert for gatherings, potlucks, or a quick treat.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 (16-ounce) container of strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 (8-ounce) container of whipped topping, thawed
1 (3.4-ounce) box of cheesecake instant pudding mix (do not prepare, just the dry mix)
1/3 cup of milk
1 pre-made pound cake, cut into bite-sized cubes

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry cheesecake pudding mix with 1/3 cup of milk and mix well.
Fold in the whipped topping until fully combined and creamy.
Gently stir in the sliced strawberries.
Add the cubed pound cake and gently fold it in until evenly coated.
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 1 hour before serving for best taste and texture.

Nutrients (Per Serving – Approximate, based on 8 servings)

Calories: 260
Total Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 220mg
Total Carbohydrates: 38g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 25g
Protein: 3g
Calcium: 6% DV
Vitamin C: 45% DV

History of Strawberry Shortcake

The origins of strawberry shortcake date back to the 19th century. The classic dessert has roots in both British and American culinary traditions, with the British version traditionally involving a scone base, and the American version using sponge cake or shortcake biscuits. The concept of pairing strawberries with cake became increasingly popular in the U.S. in the late 1800s, especially with the rise of strawberry cultivation in the country.

The strawberry shortcake fruit salad is a contemporary adaptation of this timeless dessert. While traditional strawberry shortcake consists of cake, strawberries, and whipped cream, this fruit salad version swaps out the biscuit or cake base for cubed pound cake, making it easier to prepare and more accessible for those who may not have time or resources for the more complicated original recipe.

Why This Strawberry Shortcake Fruit Salad Is a Must-Try

There are several reasons why this strawberry shortcake fruit salad has become a beloved variation of the classic dessert. Here are a few:

Quick and Easy: Traditional strawberry shortcake recipes can require multiple steps, including baking a cake or making homemade shortcakes. This fruit salad eliminates the need for baking and uses simple ingredients that are easy to assemble. It’s a no-bake dessert, which is especially convenient during hot weather or when you’re in a rush.
Light and Refreshing: While still indulgent, this fruit salad is lighter than traditional strawberry shortcake. It contains fresh strawberries, which provide a refreshing burst of flavor. The whipped topping adds creaminess without being overly heavy, making it the perfect dessert for any season.
Crowd-Pleaser: With its sweet and tangy flavor profile, this dessert is sure to appeal to a wide range of people. Whether served at a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or a potluck, it’s a dessert that can be enjoyed by everyone. The balance between the fruit, cream, and cake makes for a perfect combination.
Customizable: This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for variations to cater to different dietary preferences or to incorporate other fruits. While strawberries are the star of the dish, you can add other berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, to give the salad a more vibrant flavor. You can also swap the pound cake for angel food cake or sponge cake for a different texture.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Fruit Salad

Creating this dessert is easy and doesn’t require any special culinary skills. By simply combining a few key ingredients, you can whip up a delicious, creamy salad that will impress your guests. The key to making this fruit salad perfect is to ensure that the ingredients are mixed gently to preserve the freshness of the strawberries and the lightness of the whipped topping.

The first step is to prepare the strawberries. Use fresh, ripe strawberries that are in season for the best flavor. Hulled and sliced strawberries are perfect for this recipe, as they are easy to eat and evenly distribute throughout the salad. To make the dish even more exciting, feel free to add a variety of berries, such as blackberries or raspberries, for extra flavor and color.

Next, you’ll want to prepare the whipped topping. The best way to do this is by using a pre-made container of whipped topping, such as Cool Whip, which provides a creamy texture without requiring any extra effort. You’ll combine the whipped topping with instant cheesecake pudding mix to give the salad an extra layer of flavor and creaminess. By folding the pudding mix into the whipped topping, you create a rich base that enhances the sweetness of the fruit.

After mixing the whipped topping and pudding, gently fold in the sliced strawberries and cubed pound cake. The pound cake provides a soft, spongy texture that complements the smoothness of the whipped topping and the juiciness of the strawberries. Be sure to mix everything carefully to avoid breaking up the pound cake or over-mixing the whipped topping.

Finally, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for about an hour before serving. Chilling the fruit salad allows the flavors to meld together, and the cake cubes will absorb some of the creaminess, making the salad even more delicious.

Health Benefits of Strawberry Shortcake Fruit Salad

While dessert is often associated with indulgence, this strawberry shortcake fruit salad offers some health benefits thanks to the fresh strawberries and lighter ingredients. Here are a few ways this dessert can be a healthier alternative:

Rich in Vitamin C: Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, which is vital for boosting immunity, promoting healthy skin, and supporting collagen production. Vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant, helping to fight free radicals and protect cells from damage.
Low in Calories: This recipe can be a lighter dessert option compared to more traditional cakes and pies. By using whipped topping and pound cake in moderate amounts, the overall calorie count is kept lower, making it a good choice for those seeking a sweet treat without overindulging.
Contains Dietary Fiber: While this dessert is not a primary source of fiber, the strawberries do provide a small amount of dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health. The fiber content also helps to regulate blood sugar levels and improve heart health.

Perfect Occasions to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Fruit Salad

This strawberry shortcake fruit salad is ideal for a wide range of occasions. Here are some ideas for when you might want to serve it:

Summer Parties: The light and refreshing nature of this fruit salad makes it perfect for summer gatherings, barbecues, or picnics. The cool, creamy dessert provides a welcome break from the heat and pairs wonderfully with other outdoor foods like grilled meats and fresh salads.
Holiday Celebrations: Whether it’s a Memorial Day gathering, a Fourth of July BBQ, or a Christmas dinner, this dessert is a great addition to any holiday spread. The vibrant red color of the strawberries also makes it a festive option for holidays.
Potlucks and Family Gatherings: This dish is easy to prepare and transport, making it an excellent choice for potlucks or family get-togethers. Its simplicity and crowd-pleasing nature ensure it will be a hit at any event.
Brunch or Afternoon Tea: Strawberry shortcake fruit salad is a great option for brunches or afternoon teas. Its sweet yet light flavor pairs well with coffee, tea, or lemonade.

Conclusion

Strawberry Shortcake Fruit Salad is a simple, versatile, and delicious dessert that takes the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake and transforms them into a refreshing, no-bake treat. With its creamy texture, sweet strawberries, and soft pound cake, this fruit salad is sure to become a favorite at any gathering. It’s easy to prepare, customizable to suit different tastes, and perfect for any occasion.

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