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Creamy Vanilla Fruit Dip

Creamy Vanilla Fruit Dip (Easy No-Bake Recipe)

This luxurious, fluffy vanilla fruit dip is made with a base of cream cheese and powdered sugar, creating the perfect accompaniment for fresh seasonal fruits and cookies. It requires zero baking and takes just 15 minutes to prepare.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Dip Base
  • 1 (8 ounce) block full-fat cream cheese completely softened to room temperature
  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar also known as confectioners' sugar; must be sifted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon optional, but highly recommended
  • 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream or whole milk, for desired consistency
For Serving
  • Assortment of fresh fruits such as strawberries, grapes, apple slices, pineapple, and melon
  • Graham crackers or vanilla wafer cookies optional dippers

Equipment

  • Electric Hand Mixer (or Stand Mixer)
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Fine Mesh Sifter
  • Rubber Spatula

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened. If it is cold, the final dip texture will be lumpy. Place the softened cream cheese into a large mixing bowl. Using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese on medium speed for 1 to 2 minutes until it is perfectly smooth and creamy with no lumps remaining. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
  2. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar into the mixing bowl, one-third at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated. Once all the sugar is mixed in, add the vanilla extract and the ground cinnamon (if using). Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat the mixture for an additional 1 minute until the dip is visibly lightened and fluffy.
  3. Pour the heavy whipping cream or whole milk into the bowl, starting with 2 tablespoons. Beat the mixture for about 30 seconds. Assess the consistency. If you desire a thinner, runnier dip (best for serving with large fruit platters), add the remaining cream/milk one teaspoon at a time until your desired dipping consistency is reached. If you prefer a thick, stand-alone frosting-like dip, use less liquid.
  4. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap, ensuring the wrap touches the surface of the dip to prevent a skin from forming. Transfer the bowl to the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour. Chilling allows the flavors to fully meld and ensures the dip firms up slightly, making it perfect for dipping.
  5. Before serving, stir the dip briefly to ensure it is smooth. Transfer the Creamy Vanilla Fruit Dip to a decorative serving bowl and arrange a platter of fresh, clean, and pre-cut fruit and cookies around it. Serve immediately.
  6. Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Notes

For the smoothest texture, ensure both the cream cheese and the liquid (heavy cream/milk) are at room temperature before mixing. If the dip seems too stiff after refrigeration, let it sit out at room temperature for 10 minutes or add a teaspoon of milk and stir vigorously until smooth again.