
This is a chilled showstopper packed with creamy goodness and fresh, bright flavor. Tins of peaches, bouncy little marshmallows, and a sweet vanilla mix all come together for something nutty, coconutty, and perfect for warm weather or party tables. People always finish every bite, and while it's super simple to whip up for a get-together, it looks fancy on any spread.
The first time I made this was for my grandma’s birthday. My family cleaned out the bowl so fast—now I’m just expected to bring it to every big meal because everyone keeps asking for it.
Dreamy Ingredients
- Canned diced peaches: Packed with sweet nectar and a tiny bit of zing. Grab cling peaches if you want them extra golden, and don’t forget to really drain them so everything stays thick.
- Coconut flakes: Adds a yummy chewy bite. Unsweetened ones are great if you’d rather it not be too sugary.
- Crushed pecans: All about that crunchy, nutty vibe. Toasting them in a pan first brings out loads more flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Makes everything lightly sweet. If you use extra-fine sugar, it’ll blend in even faster.
- Heavy cream: Whip this ice cold for billowy fluff. The colder it is, the faster it whips up nicely.
- Mini marshmallows: These give each spoonful the softest bite. Find a fresh bag so they’re not sticky clumps.
- Vanilla extract: Gives that deep, cozy dessert aroma. The pure stuff adds the best taste.
- Cream cheese, softened: Tangy and creamy—let it get room temp first so it’s smooth with no lumps.
Super Simple Steps
- Pop It in the Fridge:
- Chill the dish for at least 2 hours so it gets firm and all the flavors really come together. Keep it covered so nothing dries out.
- Sprinkle the Toppings:
- Top with a layer of coconut for chew and that tropical sweetness—feels like sunshine!
- Add the Pecans:
- Stir in the crunchy nuts. You want some in every bite for texture.
- Add Fruit and Mallows:
- Gently fold in the peach pieces and marshmallows so you don’t squish the fruit. Mix just until they’re spread out.
- Fold in the Fluff:
- Slowly blend in the whipped cream with a spatula, turning and scooping gently, so it stays extra light.
- Mix for Flavor:
- Blend in the vanilla so it’s spread out everywhere—the whole thing should smell amazing.
- Sugar Boost:
- Beat the sugar right into the cream cheese until super smooth and all dissolved.
- Soften the Cheese:
- Work your cream cheese in a large bowl until it’s totally smooth—no lumps allowed for the creamiest texture.
- Whip the Cream:
- Beat ice cold cream in a chilled bowl until you get stiff peaks. If it's warm in your kitchen, pop it in the fridge after.
- Marshmallow Prep:
- Pour marshmallows into the biggest bowl you’ve got—you’ll do all the mixing here later.
- Peach Prep:
- Drain the canned peaches all the way, press a spoon on them, and chop into little cubes. Have them ready for mixing in.
- Dive In:
- Right before serving, take off the cover and give it a gentle swirl in case anything settled or separated. Serve nice and cold.

The toasted pecans? Total winner. I always snack on some before mixing, and the marshmallow-fluffing is a little party my cousin and I look forward to every summer.
Leftover Storage
Wrap up any extra tightly and stash in the fridge. It’ll taste good for three days but is at its best within twenty-four hours—the longer it sits, the more juicy the peaches get, and it softens a bit. Want to make it ahead? Don’t toss in the nuts and coconut till just before serving—keeps everything crunchy.
Swap Outs
Walnuts or sliced almonds swap in perfectly for pecans if you want to mix it up. If there’s no heavy cream handy, whipped topping works fine—just drop the sugar a smidge. Lighten it up with reduced fat cream cheese or even tangy Greek yogurt.
How to Serve
This is best straight from the fridge, scooped into bowls by itself, or as part of a holiday spread, summer feast, or brunch. For some extra flair, layer on fresh peach slices and a sprig of mint. My mom pairs a scoop with coffee on hot mornings, and I love dropping it over pancakes on the weekend.

Southern Story
This dish comes from classic Southern get-togethers where creamy, nutty, fruit-packed salads are the stars at church potlucks or festive tables. The fancy name suits how rich and special it tastes—people always feel spoiled. It’s been a proud tradition from old cookbooks to today’s parties, especially once summer hits.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → How do I drain canned peaches so they aren’t watery here?
Tip the peaches into a strainer and let them hang out so they drip dry. If you’re in a rush, blot them with a paper towel too.
- → Can I use almonds or walnuts instead of pecans?
You sure can! Both will give you a different twist and still bring good crunch.
- → How do I get the cream cheese nice and smooth?
Just let your cream cheese sit out so it gets soft, then mix it well on its own before adding the rest. That way, it’ll end up lump-free and creamy.
- → Is it cool to make this ahead of time?
Yep, it’s actually better that way. Put it together the night before so flavors come together and it sets up a bit.
- → How do I lighten this up?
If you want less richness, go with light cream cheese and whip, or use half-and-half instead of full cream.