This Easy Millionaire Peach Salad is a refreshing mix of sweet peaches, crunchy pecans, and creamy yogurt. It’s simple to make and perfect for any gathering!
I love serving it on hot days because it’s so refreshing. Just mix everything together, and you have a tasty treat that feels special without any fuss! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Canned peaches are convenient and sweet, perfect for this salad. If you have fresh peaches, feel free to use those; just ensure they’re ripe for the best flavor. Remember to slice them evenly to mix nicely.
Mandarin Oranges: Canned mandarin oranges add a nice citrus touch. If you prefer fresh, you can use those too—just peel and segment them. They offer a fresher taste, although canned will save you time.
Cream Cheese: I always use full-fat cream cheese for a richer taste and creamier texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Neufchâtel cheese works well too. You can also try a dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan twist.
Powdered Sugar: This is used for sweetness without the grittiness of granulated sugar. If you’re looking for a healthier option, feel free to substitute with maple syrup or honey, adjusting to taste.
Nuts: Chopped pecans give a lovely crunch, but walnuts or even slivered almonds can be suitable alternatives. If someone has nut allergies, you could leave them out entirely or substitute with sunflower seeds.
How Can I Ensure My Salad Is Nice and Creamy?
A creamy texture is key to a successful Millionaire Peach Salad. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature. This helps it blend smoothly without any lumps.
- Fold in the whipped topping gently. This keeps the mixture light; stir too hard, and you’ll lose that fluffiness.
- Chill the salad for at least an hour. This allows the flavors to meld and the creaminess to set properly.
By following these tips, you’ll have a deliciously creamy salad that’s perfect for any occasion!
Easy Millionaire Peach Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fruits:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) peaches in syrup, drained and chopped
- 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
Mix-ins:
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows
- 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened, based on preference)
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Creamy Base:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip) or whipped cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: a few drops of red or orange food coloring for a peachy color (if desired)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and should chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving. So, plan for about an hour and 15 minutes total—most of which involves just letting the salad set!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Creamy Base:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s soft and smooth. This will be the delicious base of your salad!
2. Add Sweetness:
Next, add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Mix everything together well until it’s combined and creamy, which will help balance the tartness of the fruits.
3. Time for Whipped Topping:
Gently fold in the whipped topping. Use a spatula to mix, so you keep the fluffiness. This is what makes the salad light and creamy!
4. Combine the Fruits and Extras:
Now it’s time to add the fun stuff! Carefully stir in the chopped peaches, mandarin oranges, miniature marshmallows, shredded coconut, and about half of the chopped pecans. This mixture will add tons of flavor and texture to your salad.
5. Optional Coloring:
If you’d like, you can add a few drops of food coloring to give your salad a lovely peach hue. Gently mix until the color is nicely uniform.
6. Transfer and Garnish:
Carefully transfer the mixture to a serving bowl. Sprinkle the remaining chopped pecans on top for a crunchy garnish that also looks nice!
7. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This helps all the flavors meld together and ensures the salad is nicely chilled.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Once chilled, the salad is ready to enjoy! Serve it at your next potluck, picnic, or family meal, and watch it disappear quickly. It’s that good!
Enjoy your delicious and easy Millionaire Peach Salad!
Easy Millionaire Peach Salad FAQ
Can I Use Fresh Peaches Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Fresh peaches can be used for a fresher taste. Just make sure they are ripe, and slice them evenly so they mix well with the other ingredients.
How Long Will the Salad Last in the Fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, the salad will last up to 3 days in the fridge. However, for the best texture and flavor, it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes, you can make a vegan version by using dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based whipped topping. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients meet your dietary preferences.
What Can I Substitute for the Nuts?
If you have nut allergies, feel free to omit the nuts entirely or substitute with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch without the allergens!
