Save A vibrant, whimsical dessert platter featuring fresh fruit, creamy whipped cream cheese, and playful butterfly shapes — perfect for spring gatherings.
This recipe always brightens up my springtime parties and gets compliments from everyone!
Ingredients
- Cream Cheese Spread: 225 g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened, 60 ml (1/4 cup) honey, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 60 ml (1/4 cup) heavy cream
- Fruit: 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced, 1 cup blueberries, 1 cup kiwi, peeled and sliced, 1 cup pineapple, cut into butterfly shapes (use a small butterfly cookie cutter), 1 cup seedless grapes, halved, 1 orange, peeled and segmented
- Dippers & Garnishes: 1 cup gluten-free graham crackers or cookies, broken into pieces, 2 tbsp edible flowers (such as pansies or violets, optional), 1 tbsp fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth. Slowly add heavy cream and whip until light and fluffy.
- Step 2:
- Spread the whipped cream cheese mixture onto a large serving board or platter, creating a base layer.
- Step 3:
- Arrange the sliced fruit on top of the cream cheese in a colorful pattern. Use the butterfly-shaped pineapple pieces as decorative focal points.
- Step 4:
- Scatter blueberries, grapes, and orange segments around the board for variety.
- Step 5:
- Add gluten-free graham crackers or cookies to one side of the board for dipping.
- Step 6:
- Garnish with edible flowers and fresh mint leaves for a springtime touch.
- Step 7:
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate (covered) for up to 2 hours before serving.
Save My family loves gathering around this colorful board; it’s a joyful centerpiece that sparks smiles and conversation.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this board with a sparkling Moscato or a light herbal tea for a delightful springtime treat.
Storage Tips
Cover and refrigerate the prepared board for up to 2 hours before serving to keep everything fresh.
Variations
For a dairy-free version, use whipped coconut cream cheese, and add a drizzle of fruit coulis for extra sweetness.
Save This easy yet elegant dessert board is sure to impress your guests and brighten any occasion.
Common Questions
- → How do you shape the pineapple into butterflies?
Use a small butterfly cookie cutter to cut pineapple slices into delicate butterfly shapes for a fun and decorative touch.
- → Can I substitute ingredients for dietary preferences?
Yes, you can swap seasonal fruits or use whipped coconut cream cheese for a dairy-free option while keeping the fresh flavors.
- → What pairs well with this fruit and cream cheese board?
Light sparkling Moscato or herbal teas complement the fresh fruit and creamy spread nicely, enhancing the springtime vibe.
- → How should the board be served and stored?
Serve immediately for best freshness, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before enjoying.
- → Are there gluten-free options for dippers?
Yes, using gluten-free graham crackers or cookies ensures the board suits gluten-sensitive guests without sacrificing crunch.