Fruit Cream is a popular and refreshing dessert made using heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and seasonal fruits. The colorful, sweet, and juicy, fruity goodness makes it a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Made with fresh fruits and cream, this nutrients and fiber-rich dessert is super simple and easy to make.
Experiment with flours like teff or chestnut flour for unique baked goods and pastries.
Table of contents
It takes about 30 minutes when prepared from scratch, and if you have chopped all your fruits then it gets done in just 5 minutes!
On this page, I have shared all the tips, tricks on how to make this delicious dessert, and the different variations of fruit cream.
About Fruit Cream
Fruit cream or Fruit salad with cream is a delectable and flavorsome dessert containing luscious and sweet seasonal fruits, sweetener, and lots of whipped cream. In many Northern parts of India this dessert is also known as Punjabi fruit cream.
It is an ideal dessert when you want to indulge in something sweet and refreshing.
It is a vegetarian sweet dish that can also be made vegan by substituting cream with non-dairy cream and sweetened condensed milk with coconut condensed milk or any other vegan condensed milk. It is also a gluten-free dessert, so it is a wonderful option for those who are gluten intolerant.
This delicious dessert can be served alone as an after-meal dessert or served with a dollop of vanilla ice cream or kesar pista ice cream to make it decadent. It can also be served alongside cakes or pies.
Fruit cream salad can also be served with other dishes as part Indian thali consisting of puri, roti, paneer lababdar, paneer pulao, veggie boondi raita, rice kheer, and shahi tukda.
To make this easy dessert, all you must do is mix the bite-sized fruit pieces with whipped cream. That is, it. You can serve the fruit salad with cream right away or serve chilled.
The remarkable thing about fruit salad with cream recipe is that it is such a versatile dessert which can be made using many different fruits and other ingredients.
I have added some chopped nuts such as almonds, cashews, and pistachios to this fruit dessert recipe for added crunch, texture, and richness. However, adding nuts is entirely optional here.
I have flavored whipped cream with vanilla, but you can also use other flavors such as almond extract. Or to give this dessert Indian dessert flavors you can jazz it up with rose water, saffron, cardamom powder or kewra water.
Instead of using sweetened condensed milk you can also use icing or powdered sugar as a sweetener. Or use honey, maple syrup or agave nectar for a healthy version.
The fruits I have used in this recipe are banana, apple, mango, strawberries, kiwis, oranges, grapes, and pomegranate arils. You can use any seasonal fruits of your choice here.
Other fruits that go well in this recipe are, blueberries, raspberries, peaches, pear, or Chikoo (Sapodilla), black grapes, cherries, etc. You can also use melons, but make sure to add them at the time of serving, as they release water.
Avoid adding pineapple, as sometimes it gets bitter after mixing with cream.
Whether you are looking for a classic summer dessert or a refreshing spring dessert, fruit cream is a perfect choice for your next party or gathering.
This Fruit Cream
✓is a refreshing and delish dessert
✓ can satisfy your sweet cravings
✓ can also be made using coconut cream
✓ is a reliable source of vitamins and minerals
✓ is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste
✓ can be made with assorted flavors
✓ is a super quick and easy dessert
✓ can also be served as a topping for cakes or pies
✓ is a vegetarian dessert
✓ can also be made vegan or gluten-free
✓ is suitable for parties or other occasions
Ingredients
Fruit cream recipe require some basic and easy to find ingredients such as fresh fruits, vanilla, fresh cream, and sweetener. Let us get a deeper look into what ingredients are required to make this dessert:
- Fresh Fruits: As the name suggests, fruit is the star ingredient of this recipe. The wonderful thing about this dessert is that you can use any combination of fresh fruits of your choice.
I have used strawberries, kiwis, mangoes, bananas, apples, grapes, strawberries, and oranges. To get the best taste, just make sure to choose the fresh and best quality fruits that are in season.
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Cream: The cream is added for a rich and creamy texture. For making this dessert, you can either use heavy or whipping cream. Here you can also use a cool whip.
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Cream Cheese: I have added a tablespoon of cream cheese for a slight tang. You can also swap it with hung curd or omit it. Adding cream cheese or hung curd is optional but adds such a nice taste to this fruit salad, so it is highly recommended.
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Sweetener: I have used 4 tablespoons of homemade sweetened condensed milk as a sweetener and to get a rich and creamy texture. Since the fruits are naturally sweet, you only need a little bit of sweetener. Thus, I have only added 4 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk here. However, if you prefer sweeter cream then feel free to add more condensed milk. You can also use icing sugar or powdered sugar here.
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Vanilla Extract: I have added a teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor of the dessert. You can also use other flavors such as almond extract.
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Nuts: I have added chopped nuts like almonds, cashews and pistachios for a crunchy texture and richness. Adding nuts is up to you.
Variations
This is a versatile dessert that can be made in many different variations, depending on your taste and preferences. Here are some recipe variations that you can try:
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Fruit Cream Ice Cream: You can also serve this as ice cream. To make fruit cream ice cream, freeze the mixture for 8 hours or overnight and scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy a refreshing summer treat.
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Ras Malai Fruit Cream: For a ras malai flavored fruit cream, add 1 tablespoon of crushed saffron strands soaked in milk to the whipping cream. Also add ½ teaspoon of cardamom powder.
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Rose Fruit Cream: To make rose fruit cream, you can add about 1 tablespoon of rose syrup to the whipped cream along with 1 tablespoon or crushed dried rose petals.
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Fruit Cream Dip: You can serve this dessert as a dip for your crackers or cookies.
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Fruit Cream with Yogurt: You can also make the same recipe using yogurt. To make a fruit salad with yogurt, replace the whipped cream with Greek yogurt or strained yogurt. Whip it with sweetener and vanilla. Then mix the fruits with the whipped yogurt.
Chill it in the fridge until it becomes thick and creamy.
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Fruit Cream Parfait: To make a parfait, layer the fruit salad with cream with crushed butter cookies and nuts, or granola in a glass, and then top it with a cherry or a strawberry. Serve chilled.
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Fruit Cream Cake: You can also use this fruit dessert as a cake base. To make a fruit cream cake, transfer the mixture to a springform cake tin and let it set for 4-6 hours or until firm. Slice and enjoy.
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Fruit Cream Topping: You can also use this cream as a topping for your favorite cake or pie. Alternatively, you can use it as a frosting for cupcakes or muffins.
Serving Suggestions
It tastes good as it is. Simply garnish it with more fresh fruits for an extra touch of flavor and color and enjoy!
If you like a decadent dessert, top it with cake or cookie crumbs, drizzle with condensed milk or caramel sauce and enjoy. Or top it with a dollop of your favorite ice cream such as mango ice cream, or strawberry ice cream.
It can be served in individual ice cream glasses as desserts or in bowls as salad or a dip for your cookies. or it can be used as a topping for cakes or pies.
Storage Suggestions
Fruit cream stays fresh for up to 24 hours when stored in an airtight container in the fridge. After that it starts losing taste and texture.
Make-Ahead Fruit Cream: If you want to make it in advance then you can prepare the fruits and the whipped cream in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Only mix them together a few hours or right before serving to maintain the freshness and the texture.
Pro tips and tricks to make Fruit Cream
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Use Fresh & Ripe Fruits: Fruits are the key ingredients of this fruit salad with cream recipe, so it is highly advised to use fresh, ripe, and organic fruits to get the most flavor and taste.
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Cut fruits into bite-size pieces: Make sure to wash the fruits thoroughly and chop them into small bite-sized pieces.
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Use chilled fruits: Chilled fruits get mixed so well with the chilled whipping cream. So, it is advised to chill the fruits for at least 30 minutes before mixing with the cream. This way you get the best taste and texture.
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Fruit & Cream Ratio: I like more fruits and less cream, so I have used about 4 cups of chopped fruits for 2 cups of whipped cream. If you prefer more cream, then reduce the amount of fruit.
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Temperature: Serve it chilled for the best taste and texture. Keep it in the fridge until you are ready to serve it, and do not leave it at room temperature for too long.
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Use Chilled Cream: Heavy cream or whipping cream both should be chilled before you start whipping. This way the cream whips faster and holds its shape better. Beat the cream until it becomes thick and forms soft peaks. Make sure that the cream and the mixing bowl are chilled before you start whipping
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Sweetener: I have used 4 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk as a sweetener. You can adjust the amount according to your taste preference. Just taste the cream mixture and adjust the sweetness. Other sweeteners such as icing sugar or powdered sugar can also be used here.
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Added texture & crunch: Chopped nuts are added for crunch. You can also add other nuts, seeds, or dried fruits such as raisins, chia seeds, shredded coconut, dried apricots, chopped dates, or even Tutti Frutti. You can also top it with crushed chocolate chip cookies or lemon white chocolate cookies for a sweet crunch and fun twist.
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Serving: You can either serve it straight away or chill the fruit based dessert in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. I prefer chilling as it allows the flavors to meld together.
FAQ
What fruits can I use in fruit cream?
You can add any of your favorite fruits to this recipe. The common fruits that go in this fruit dessert are strawberries, blueberries, mangoes, kiwis, bananas, apples, grapes, pomegranate arils, etc.
Can I use canned or frozen fruits in fruit cream?
Fresh fruits taste best in fruit salad with cream, so I personally like fresh fruits only. But you can use canned fruits, just remember to drain the excess liquid from canned fruits. Adding frozen fruits is not recommended here.
Can I make fruit cream ahead of time?
Yes, you can cut the fruits, prepare the whipped cream in advance, and store them separately in the fridge. When you want to serve, mix the whipped cream with fruit, and enjoy. It is the best option if you are making it for a party or get-together.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of whipped cream ?
Surely you can use Greek yogurt as a replacement for whipped cream. You might need to add some extra sweetener to balance the tartness of the yogurt.
Can I make vegan fruit cream?
Yes, you can surely make vegan fruit cream. To make a vegan version, swap cream with non-dairy whipped cream, such as coconut whipped cream or soy whipped cream. Also replace sweetened condensed milk with icing sugar or non-dairy condensed milk.
How long can I store fruit cream in the fridge?
Fruit salad with cream keeps fresh when stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day.
Fruit Cream (Step-by-step photo instructions)
How to Make Fruit Cream
- Add chilled whipping cream to a large mixing bowl. Also, add sweetened condensed milk or icing sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat using a stand mixer or whisk until soft peaks. Next add, hung curd and mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add all the fruits (chilled), and nuts and fold gently.
- Chill it for 1-2 hours before serving. You can also serve it right away. Transfer fruit cream to serve bowls. Garnish with chopped mangoes, sliced strawberry, pomegranate arils, chopped kiwi, and nuts, and serve chilled.
Recipe Card
Fruit Cream [Recipe]
★★★★★
(Rating: 5 from 3 reviews)
Prep time 🕐 | Cook time 🕐 | Total time 🕐 |
---|---|---|
20 mins | ||
Category ☶ | Cuisine ♨ | Serves ☺ |
Desserts | Indian | 6 |
Nutrition Info ⊛ | Serving size ⊚ | |
470 calories | 1 |
INGREDIENTS
For Fruit Cream
- 1 cup heavy or whipping cream, chilled
- 1 tablespoon hung crud or cream cheese, optional
- 4 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk or icing sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 pear or apple, chopped
- 2 kiwis, peeled and chopped
- 1 mango peeled and chopped
- 1/3 cup pomegranate arils
- 1/2 cup strawberries or blueberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup banana, sliced
- 1 orange, peeled and chopped
- 1/3 cup grapes, halved
- 1/3 cup pomegranate arils
- 1 tablespoon cashew nuts, chopped
- 1 tablespoon almonds, sliced
- 1 tablespoon pistachios, sliced
For Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped pistachios
- chopped mangoes
- Chopped kiwi
- Pomegranate arils
- Chopped nuts
INSTRUCTIONS:
How to Make Fruit Cream
- Add chilled whipping cream to a large mixing bowl. Also, add sweetened condensed milk or icing sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat using a stand mixer or whisk until soft peaks. Next add, hung curd and mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add all the fruits (chilled), and nuts and fold gently.
- Chill it for 1-2 hours before serving. You can also serve it right away. Transfer fruit cream to serve bowls. Garnish with chopped mangoes, sliced strawberry, pomegranate arils, chopped kiwi, and nuts, and serve chilled.
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NOTES:
- Fruits are the key ingredients of this fruit salad with cream recipe, so it is highly advised to use fresh, ripe, and organic fruits to get the most flavor and taste.
- Cut fruits into bite-size pieces: Make sure to wash the fruits thoroughly and chop them into small bite-sized pieces.
- Chilled fruits get mixed so well with the chilled whipping cream. So, it is advised to chill the fruits for at least 30 minutes before mixing with the cream. This way you get the best taste and texture.
- I like more fruits and less cream, so I have used about 4 cups of chopped fruits for 2 cups of whipped cream. If you prefer more cream, then reduce the amount of fruit.