Aunt Marion's Fruit Salad Dessert is a beloved family recipe that has stood the test of time, delighting taste buds across generations. This refreshing blend of fruits and creamy vanilla pudding offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an ideal treat for picnics, potlucks, and family gatherings.
1cansliced peaches, drained and cut into bite-size pieces
1canmandarin oranges, drained
3bananassliced
2unpeeled red applescut into bite-sized pieces
For the fruit sauce:
1cupcold whole milk
3/4cupsour cream
1/3cupthawed orange juice concentrate
1packageinstant vanilla pudding mix
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Instructions
Combine the pineapple chunks, sliced peaches, mandarin oranges, bananas, and red apples in a large bowl. Ensure all the fruits are evenly mixed to create a balanced flavor in every bite.
Whisk together the milk, sour cream, orange juice concentrate, and vanilla pudding mix until smooth and well-blended in a separate bowl. This sauce should have a creamy consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
Gently fold the pudding sauce into the mixed fruits until all the pieces are evenly coated. Do not mash the fruits - maintain their texture and appearance.
Cover the bowl and chill the fruit salad in the refrigerator for three to four hours before serving. This gives the flavors time to meld and the pudding sauce time to thicken.
Notes
Fruit Variations:
Try adding fresh strawberries, blueberries, or red seedless grapes for extra flavor and texture. Experiment with tropical fruits like mango or kiwi for an exotic twist.
Texture Boosters:
Sprinkle in chopped walnuts or almonds for a satisfying crunch. These nuts complement the creamy pudding and soft fruits beautifully.
Fun Mix-ins:
Toss in mini marshmallows for a playful touch. Add maraschino cherries for a pop of color and sweetness. Top with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Customization:
Feel free to adjust fruit ratios based on personal preferences. Don't be afraid to get creative with your unique combinations!