Caramel Crunch Cheesecake Fruit Salad is a decadent twist on classic fruit salad, combining creamy cheesecake filling with crisp apples, juicy grapes, and pineapple, all topped with a sweet and crunchy caramelized pecan or toffee mix. It’s the perfect dessert for gatherings, holidays, or whenever you want a fruity treat with a rich, indulgent flair.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cream cheese
instant cheesecake pudding mix
cool whip or whipped topping
milk
granny smith apples
red apples
seedless grapes
pineapple tidbits
toffee bits or caramelized pecans
caramel sauce

directions

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.

Add the dry cheesecake pudding mix and slowly blend in the milk until well combined.

Fold in the whipped topping until fully incorporated to form a smooth, fluffy base.

Gently stir in the chopped apples, grapes, and drained pineapple tidbits.

Fold in most of the toffee bits or caramelized pecans, saving some for topping.

Drizzle caramel sauce over the mixture and give a light stir to swirl it in.

Transfer to a serving bowl and top with remaining toffee bits or pecans and a final caramel drizzle.

Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8-10 servings.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

Substitute strawberries, bananas, or blueberries for a different fruit blend.
Use crushed graham crackers in place of toffee bits for a different kind of crunch.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream for a spiced touch.
Use caramel Greek yogurt instead of pudding mix for a lighter option.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Stir gently before serving again to refresh texture.
Do not freeze, as the fruit and dairy mixture will separate and become watery.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best when chilled for at least an hour, and can be made up to a day in advance.

Do I have to use Cool Whip?
You can use homemade whipped cream, but stabilize it with powdered sugar to maintain texture.

Can I make it nut-free?
Yes, simply omit pecans or toffee bits or replace them with crushed pretzels or cookie crumbs.

What type of apples are best?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp or Gala offer a great mix of tart and sweet with a firm bite.

Can I use fresh pineapple?
Yes, just make sure it’s well-drained and chopped into small pieces.

Is this dish very sweet?
It’s sweet but balanced by the tart fruit and creamy cheesecake filling.

Conclusion

Caramel Crunch Cheesecake Fruit Salad brings together the best of both worlds—fresh fruit and indulgent dessert. It’s creamy, crunchy, fruity, and sweet, making it an irresistible option for potlucks, holidays, or a quick no-bake treat. Easy to prepare and customizable to your taste, it’s sure to become a crowd-pleasing favorite.