Why I’ll Love This Recipe
I adore how this salad feels like dessert in disguise—peachy, creamy, and full of soft and crunchy contrasts. The peach flavor shines, while marshmallows, pecans, and a velvety cream mixture make every bite feel indulgent yet nostalgic.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Cream cheese, softened
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Powdered sugar
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Whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
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Peach-flavored gelatin (dry mix)
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Canned peaches, chopped (keep a bit of the syrup)
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Mini marshmallows
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Chopped pecans (added just before serving)
Directions
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I beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar until it’s fluffy.
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I stir in whipped topping and peach gelatin until smooth and creamy.
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I fold in the chopped peaches along with a bit of the reserved syrup to keep it juicy.
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I gently mix in mini marshmallows for sweet, pillowy texture.
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I refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours so it can chill and set.
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Just before serving, I fold in chopped pecans for a delightful crunch.
Servings and timing
This salad serves about 8–10 people. Prep takes around 10–15 minutes, plus at least 2 hours chilling, making it perfect to make ahead for gatherings.
Variations
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I sometimes substitute fresh, diced peaches when they’re in season.
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I’ve added shredded coconut for tropical flair and texture.
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I’ll swap pecans for almonds or leave them out for a nut-free version.
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I drizzle it with caramel sauce or top with Maraschino cherries for extra sweetness.
Storage/reheating
I store this salad in the refrigerator, covered, and enjoy it chilled. It keeps wonderfully for up to 3 days, though I find it tastes best the day it’s set. No reheating needed—just serve cool and creamy.
FAQs
Can I prep this the day before?
Absolutely—I often make it a day ahead, and chilling overnight helps all the flavors meld beautifully.
Can I use fresh peaches instead of canned?
Yes—I drain and chop fresh peaches, and add a touch of honey or syrup to mimic that juicy sweetness and moisture.
What’s the best way to keep the marshmallows from sinking?
I gently fold them in last and let the salad chill; they stay light and fluffy rather than sinking to the bottom.
Can I make this allergy-friendly?
Yes—I can omit nuts or use a seed alternative like sunflower seeds to keep with dietary needs without losing texture.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes—it’s naturally gluten-free, provided all ingredients like whipped topping and gelatin don’t contain additives with gluten.
Conclusion
I’ve found that this Millionaire Peach Salad captures nostalgia and indulgence in each spoonful — creamy, fruity, and textured in the best ways. It’s wonderful for celebrations or simple treat-yourself moments, and always leaves people asking for the recipe.
PrintMillionaire Peach Salad
A rich and creamy peach salad with tropical sweetness and a luscious, dessert-like texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: 8–10 servings
- Category: Salad, Dessert
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American, Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained well
1 (29 oz) can sliced peaches, drained and chopped
1 cup miniature marshmallows
½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
Mix cream base: In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold in Cool Whip until fully incorporated.
Add fruit & mix-ins: Stir in crushed pineapple, chopped peaches, marshmallows, and pecans (if using).
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors blend.
Serve: Spoon into bowls or cups and enjoy chilled.
Notes
Drain well: Make sure pineapple and peaches are drained thoroughly to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
Nut swap: Walnuts or almonds can be used instead of pecans.
Extra flavor: Add ½ tsp vanilla extract for a sweeter, more aromatic cream base.
Make-ahead: This salad tastes even better when made the night before.