Sweet and Creamy Filipino Fruit Salad – A Must-Try Dessert!
Filipino Fruit Salad – A Holiday Favorite
Filipino fruit salad is a classic dessert enjoyed during holidays and special occasions. It combines canned and fresh fruits with a sweet, creamy dressing made from condensed milk and table cream. This indulgent treat can be served chilled or frozen, making it a versatile dessert for any season.
- Uses a combination of canned and fresh fruits.
- The creamy dressing makes it unique.
- Can be served chilled or frozen.
- Perfect for Christmas, New Year, and summer.
Ingredients for Filipino Fruit Salad
Filipino fruit salad is made with widely available ingredients found in local grocery stores. The following are the essential components:
Main Ingredients:
- Canned fruit cocktail – A mix of peaches, cherries, pineapples, and pears.
- Kaong (sugar palm fruit) – Small, chewy, and slightly sweet.
- Nata de coco (coconut gel) – A jelly-like coconut product with a unique texture.
- Fresh fruits – Apples, grapes, pears, or whatever is in season.
- Young coconut strips (optional but recommended for added flavor and texture).
Pro Tip:
If using apples or pears, drizzle lemon or calamansi juice to prevent oxidation and browning.
The Secret to the Creamy Dressing
The dressing is what sets this fruit salad apart. It consists of just two key ingredients:
- Condensed milk – Adds the signature sweet and creamy taste.
- Table cream (or all-purpose cream) – Gives the salad a smooth, luscious texture.
Important Note:
While table cream can be replaced with fresh cream, there is no substitute for condensed milk as it provides the perfect sweetness and consistency.
Chilled vs. Frozen Fruit Salad
This salad can be enjoyed in two ways, depending on your preference:
- Chilled Version – Perfect for cooler months and special celebrations like Christmas and New Year.
- Frozen Version – Turns into a summer dessert, where the fruit pieces become soft and candy-like.
How to Make Filipino Fruit Salad
Making this dessert is incredibly easy! Follow these simple steps:
Instructions:
- Drain the canned fruit cocktail, kaong, and nata de coco.
- Chop fresh fruits (if using), and mix them with the drained fruits.
- Prepare the dressing by combining condensed milk and table cream.
- Mix everything together in a large bowl.
- Refrigerate or freeze depending on preference.
Storage and Shelf Life
- Chilled version: Best consumed within 5 days.
- Frozen version: Stays fresh for up to 2 weeks.
- Do not refreeze once thawed; consume within 24 hours.
Why You Should Try This Dessert
Filipino fruit salad is more than just a dessert—it’s a cultural favorite that brings families together. It’s easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and is perfect for any occasion. Whether you prefer it chilled or frozen, this creamy fruit salad is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet cravings!
