Ingredients:

  • 16 oz block full-fat Cream Cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (icing sugar), sifted
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
  • 1 teaspoon Fresh Lemon Zest
  • 8 oz container Whipped Topping, thawed
  • 20 oz can Crushed Pineapple, drained thoroughly
  • 1 cup Red Grapes, seedless and halved
  • 1 cup fresh Strawberries, quartered
  • 1 cup canned Mandarin Orange Segments, drained (optional)
  • 1/2 cup Pecan Halves or Walnuts, lightly toasted and chopped
  • 1 1/2 cups crushed Graham Crackers (or Digestive Biscuits)
  • Extra Berries/Cherries for topping garnish

Instructions:

  1. Drain the Fruit: Place the crushed pineapple (and mandarin segments, if using) into a fine-mesh sieve and press gently with a spoon to remove all excess liquid. Pat dry with paper towels for maximum stability.
  2. Toast the Crunch: Lightly toast the pecans or walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until fragrant. Cool completely, then roughly chop.
  3. Cream the Cheese Base: Using an electric mixer, beat the fully softened cream cheese, sifted powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until completely smooth and airy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl frequently.
  4. Fold the Stabiliser: Gently fold the chilled whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture using a rubber spatula. Use a cutting and folding motion to keep the mixture light and fluffy. Do not overmix.
  5. Incorporate the Fruit: Gently fold in the well-drained pineapple, mandarin segments, halved grapes, and quartered strawberries. Ensure the fruit is evenly distributed without deflating the cream base.
  6. Chill Time: Transfer the mixture to your serving dish, cover tightly with cling film, and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours. This allows the creamy mixture to firm up and the flavors to fully marry.
  7. Prepare the Crunch: In a small bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers (or digestive biscuits) and the chopped toasted nuts.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Just 15–30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the crunch mixture generously over the top of the chilled salad. Garnish with a few extra fresh berries or cherries for a visual flourish. Scoop and serve chilled immediately.