Imagine a dessert so stunning it looks like a work of art and tastes like pure summer bliss! Our Cream Cheese Fruit Basket is not just a recipe, it's a culinary experience that transforms a simple watermelon into a show-stopping treat that will have your guests begging for the recipe. Perfect for hot summer days, brunches, or when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, this dessert combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with the vibrant freshness of seasonal fruits.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 large watermelon
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Assorted fresh fruits (strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, etc.)
Instructions
- Begin by selecting a large, ripe watermelon. Choose one that is symmetrical, has a uniform shape, and feels heavy for its size. This will ensure that the watermelon is juicy and sweet.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the watermelon in half lengthwise. This will create two large halves that will serve as the base for your fruit basket.
- With a spoon, gently scoop out the flesh of the watermelon from each half, being careful not to puncture the rind. Set the scooped watermelon flesh aside in a bowl for later use.
- Once the watermelon halves are hollowed out, you can use them as bowls for your cream cheese mixture and fresh fruits.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine 8 oz of cream cheese, 1/4 cup of powdered sugar, and 1 tsp of vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- After the cream cheese mixture is well combined, take the reserved watermelon flesh and chop it into small, bite-sized pieces. You can also add any additional fruits you desire, such as strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, or any other assorted fresh fruits.
- Gently fold the chopped watermelon and assorted fruits into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring that the fruits are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Once the fruit and cream cheese mixture is ready, spoon it into the hollowed-out watermelon halves. Fill each half generously, allowing the mixture to mound slightly over the top.
- For an extra touch, you can garnish the top of the filled watermelon halves with additional whole berries or slices of kiwi for visual appeal.
- Refrigerate the filled watermelon halves for about 10 minutes to allow the cream cheese mixture to firm up slightly.
- Once chilled, remove the fruit baskets from the refrigerator and slice them into wedges for easy serving. Each wedge will contain a delightful mix of cream cheese and fresh fruits.
- Serve the Cream Cheese Fruit Basket as a refreshing dessert or a colorful addition to a brunch spread. Enjoy the combination of creamy and fruity flavors!
Tips
- Watermelon Selection: Choose a watermelon that feels heavy and has a uniform shape - this indicates peak ripeness and sweetness.
- Cream Cheese Consistency: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for smoother mixing and a more luxurious texture.
- Fruit Variety: Mix different colored fruits not just for taste, but for a visually stunning presentation. Think strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi for a color palette that pops!
- Chill Factor: Refrigerate the fruit basket for at least 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and the cream cheese set slightly.
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare this dessert a few hours in advance, making it perfect for entertaining.
- Garnish Game: Use mint leaves or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 202kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 30mg
