Some desserts don’t need ovens, mixers, or complicated steps to be unforgettable. Grandma’s Chilled Fruit Delight is one of those timeless recipes that feels like it came straight from a handwritten card tucked inside an old cookbook. Light, creamy, and bursting with fruit, this no-bake dessert has been a family favorite for generations. It’s the kind of sweet treat that appears at Sunday lunches, summer gatherings, and holiday tables—quietly stealing the show every time.
What makes this dessert so special is its simplicity. A smooth, lightly sweetened cream base is folded together with colorful fruit and set in the refrigerator until perfectly chilled. The result is refreshing, comforting, and just sweet enough. It’s especially ideal when you want something homemade but don’t want to turn on the oven. Served cold, it’s a welcome treat on warm days and a nostalgic reminder of Grandma’s kitchen any time of year.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
For the Creamy Base
- 250 ml (1 cup) heavy cream, cold
- 200 g (¾ cup) sweetened condensed milk
- 150 g (1 cup) cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Fruit Mixture
- 200 g (1½ cups) crushed pineapple, well drained
- 150 g (1 cup) canned peach slices, drained and diced
- 150 g (1 cup) mandarin orange segments, drained
- 100 g (¾ cup) seedless grapes, halved
- 80 g (½ cup) maraschino cherries, halved
Optional Topping
- 2 tablespoons chopped nuts or shredded coconut
Detailed Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by ensuring all canned fruits are thoroughly drained. Excess liquid can prevent the dessert from setting properly. Place the crushed pineapple in a fine strainer and press gently with a spoon to remove as much juice as possible. Dice the peaches into small, even pieces and halve the grapes and cherries.
Set all prepared fruit aside.
2. Make the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese. Using a whisk or hand mixer, beat until smooth and free of lumps.
Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until fully combined and silky in texture.
In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until soft peaks form. This step gives the dessert its light, airy consistency. Be careful not to overwhip.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Use slow, sweeping motions to keep the mixture fluffy.
3. Fold in the Fruit
Add the prepared fruit to the creamy base. Fold gently until the fruit is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Take your time here to avoid crushing the fruit or deflating the cream.
At this stage, taste the mixture. If you prefer it slightly sweeter, you may add 1–2 tablespoons of extra condensed milk.
4. Chill the Dessert
Transfer the mixture into a glass serving dish or individual dessert cups. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to set into a spoonable, creamy texture.
5. Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle the top with chopped nuts or shredded coconut if desired. Serve chilled using a large spoon or dessert scoop.
Serving Suggestions
Grandma’s Chilled Fruit Delight is best served cold straight from the refrigerator. It pairs beautifully with:
- Butter cookies or shortbread
- Simple sponge cake slices
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
It also works well as a light dessert after a hearty meal, offering a refreshing and creamy finish without feeling heavy.
Tips and Variations
- Seasonal twist: Swap canned fruit for fresh seasonal fruit when available, making sure it’s well dried.
- Lighter version: Use light cream cheese and reduce the condensed milk slightly.
- Individual servings: Prepare in small glasses or jars for easy portioning.
- Make-ahead friendly: This dessert keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.