24 Hour Fruit Salad

If there’s one dish that is synonymous with holiday gatherings and nostalgic family dinners, it’s the 24 Hour Fruit Salad. This classic Midwestern treat is a delightful combination of vibrant fruits and fluffy marshmallows, all enveloped in a creamy lemon custard sauce. Ideal for festive occasions like Thanksgiving and Christmas, this salad is both a hostess’s dream and a guest’s delight. Created during a time when fresh fruits were not available year-round, it features mostly canned fruits, making it a practical choice that stands the test of time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This 24 Hour Fruit Salad is incredibly convenient because it requires preparation ahead of time, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully overnight. It’s perfect for those who prefer a sweet touch to their meal and enjoy the surprise of marshmallows in each bite. Plus, the creamy lemon custard adds a refreshing tanginess that balances the sweetness of the fruits.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Double boiler
• Standing mixer or electric hand mixer
• Large bowl

Ingredients

• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grapes, halved
• 1 cup canned pineapple, drained and diced
• 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 cup canned cherries, drained
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1 banana, sliced

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In the bottom of a double boiler, bring 1 inch of water to a simmer. Combine eggs, lemon juice, and sugar in the top of the double boiler and cook until thickened, about 10 to 12 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
2. Using a standing mixer or electric hand mixer, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold in the cooled custard sauce until combined.
3. In a large bowl, add grapes, pineapple, oranges, cherries, marshmallows, and banana. Pour the cream sauce over the mixture and stir to combine. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours or up to 24 hours before serving.

Tips for Success

Ensure the custard sauce is completely cooled before folding it into the whipped cream to maintain the fluffy texture. Also, allow the salad to sit overnight to let the flavors meld together perfectly.

Additional Tips and Variations

Feel free to customize this salad by adding nuts for a crunchy texture or substituting different fruits based on your preferences. Just remember to keep the balance between sweet and tangy for the best flavor experience.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This fruit salad is a dessert-like addition to any meal, offering a mix of vitamins from the fruits and a touch of indulgence from the cream and marshmallows. Keep portion sizes in mind to enjoy it as part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use fresh fruits instead of canned? Absolutely! Fresh fruits can add a delightful freshness, but make sure to adjust sweetness levels as needed.

How long can I store leftovers? The salad is best consumed within 2 to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

Don’t wait for the holidays to enjoy this delectable 24 Hour Fruit Salad. It’s a treat that can bring a taste of nostalgia and joy to any gathering. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience and any unique twists you add to the recipe!