Ingredients:
For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs
2 tablespoons butter, melted
For the Filling:
1 (20 oz.) can crushed pineapple, drained
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup cold water
2 envelopes unflavored gelatin
1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, cubed
1 1/2 cups halved seedless grapes
One (eleven ounce) can of mandarin oranges, drained and halved
One 10-oz jar of drained and coarsely chopped maraschino cherries
1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
2 cups whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
Instructions:
Prepare the Crust:
Melt butter and vanilla wafer crumbs in a small dish and stir until thoroughly blended.
Using a 9-inch springform pan sprayed with nonstick cooking spray, press the mixture onto the pan’s bottom.. Set aside.
Make the Filling:
Add the sugar and crushed pineapple to a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until cooked through.
Sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water in a different small bowl, and let it sit for a minute to soften. . Stir the gelatin mixture into the warm pineapple mixture until dissolved.
Reduce heat to low and add the cubed cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
Take the mixture off the heat source and allow it to cool fully.
Stir in the pecans, cherries, grapes, and mandarin oranges when it has cooled. Add the whipped topping and fold gently until everything is nicely mixed.
Assemble the Cheesecake:
Fill the prepared crust with the fruit and cream cheese filling.
To guarantee a uniform coating, use a spatula to smooth the top.
Chill:
To enable the cheesecake to set, cover it with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least six hours or overnight
Serve:
After it solidifies, take the cheesecake out of the springform pan.
Slice and serve chilled, garnished with additional fresh fruit or a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers if desired.
This Fruit Salad Cheesecake is a delightful combination of creamy cheesecake filling with a medley of refreshing fruits, crunchy pecans, and a vanilla wafer crust. The sweetness of the fruit complements the tangy cream cheese, creating a perfect balance of flavors. This no-bake cheesecake is easy to make and is a great option for a refreshing and light dessert, especially during the warmer months. Enjoy it chilled for a delightful treat that’s sure to please!