Ingredients
Nut Layer
- 1 1/3 cups chopped pecans, toasted and divided
Cream Mixture
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp pure almond extract
- 2 cups heavy cream
Fruit
- 1 (16 oz) bag frozen mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries)
Optional Garnishes
- Sweetened whipped cream
- Fresh strawberries
Instructions
- Cream the base mixture: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to blend together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth and well combined.
- Add heavy cream: Gradually pour in the heavy cream while beating on medium-high speed. Continue mixing for 3-5 minutes until the mixture becomes fluffy and forms stiff peaks, indicating it is well aerated and holds shape.
- Fold in berries and nuts: Gently fold the frozen mixed berries and half (1 cup) of the toasted chopped pecans into the creamy mixture by hand to evenly distribute without crushing the berries.
- Transfer to dish and top: Spread the mixture evenly into an 8 x 8 inch dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/3 cup of toasted pecans on top to add crunch.
- Freeze: Cover the dish and place it in the freezer overnight or until the salad is fully frozen and firm.
- Prepare to serve: Remove the frozen salad from the freezer and let it rest on the counter for 25-30 minutes to soften slightly. Run a knife around the edges of the dish to loosen the salad, then cut into desired-sized pieces using a sharp knife.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with optional sweetened whipped cream and fresh strawberries, if desired, for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- To toast pecans, spread chopped nuts on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5-8 minutes until fragrant, stirring once.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Use stiff peaks in the cream mixture as a sign of proper whipping for best texture.
- Frozen berries help keep the salad cold and fresh; do not thaw before folding in.
- Allowing the salad to soften slightly before cutting makes slicing easier and maintains shape.
- This dessert can be stored covered in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian