Frozen mango, strawberries, kiwi, and blueberries are thinly shaved for a vibrant chilled dessert. Serve them layered with coconut flakes, fresh mint, and a drizzle of maple syrup or honey. Top with a dollop of yogurt, if desired. This quick-to-prepare, naturally sweet vegan delight is perfect for hot days and can be customized with favorite fruit or crunchy toppings like nuts or granola. Enjoy a colorful treat that’s both nourishing and refreshing.
Shaved frozen fruit transforms simple ripe produce into a cool and colorful dessert that always impresses. Whether you are craving something light after dinner or need a showstopper for a picnic, this recipe delivers pure fruit flavor with hardly any work. It is my go-to when summer fruit is at its sweetest and I want everyone at the table to eat a little more fruit without complaint.
I first threw this together after a hot July farmer’s market haul. Every bite tastes sunny and sweet and now it is a staple for both fancy parties and lazy movie nights.
Ingredients
- Ripe mangoes: bring tropical creamy texture Soften in your hand before peeling to check ripeness
- Strawberries: offer bright color and tang Look for deep red berries with shiny skin
- Kiwis: deliver unique tartness and vivid green layer Pick slightly soft kiwis for easy slicing and max sweetness
- Blueberries: balance the dessert with freshness Choose firm plump berries without wrinkles or leaks
- Maple syrup or honey: gives a touch of natural sweetness Drizzle lightly so fruit flavor shines through
- Unsweetened coconut flakes: lend subtle crunch and nutty aroma Toast lightly for even more flavor
- Fresh mint: for cool herbal lift Always use freshly picked and chop just before using
- Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt: offers creamy contrast Pick your favorite for dairy or plant-based options
Instructions
- Prep and Freeze the Fruit:
- Slice mangoes peel and cut into strips Then hull and halve the strawberries Peel and slice kiwis Keep blueberries whole Arrange all in a single layer on parchment-lined baking sheets and freeze for at least four hours or overnight until every piece is firm and icy This prevents clumping and ensures clean shaving
- Shave the Fruit:
- Using a mandoline or sharp peeler carefully shave the frozen mango strawberries and kiwi into paper-thin ribbons For blueberries you can leave them whole or gently smash to release juice Proceed quickly as shaved fruit melts fast
- Plate It Up:
- Layer the shaved fruit on serving plates or bowls Overlap the colors for a beautiful presentation Add blueberries throughout for bursts of juice and color
- Sweeten and Top:
- Drizzle just a little maple syrup or honey if extra sweetness is desired Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the top for crunch and add chopped fresh mint to enhance aroma and make flavors pop
- Add Creamy Element:
- If using yogurt add a dollop on the side This gives creamy tang and helps balance the chilly sweet fruit Serve right away for the best texture and appearance
There is something magic about the first sweet-cold bite of mango with a fringe of coconut on top It always brings me back to tropical vacations with my family or giggling kids enjoying a fruity mess on the patio
Storage Tips
Keep extra sliced and frozen fruit in airtight containers for up to two months Shave only what you plan to eat to preserve color and texture Leftovers do not store well after assembling so enjoy immediately for best results
Ingredient Substitutions
Any soft and juicy fruit works here Think ripe peaches nectarines plums or seedless watermelon Fresh pineapple shaves beautifully for extra tang If you prefer nutty toppings a sprinkle of chopped pistachios or almonds can work in place of coconut flakes
Serving Suggestions
I often serve shaved frozen fruit as a light dessert after a summer meal but it also works as a brunch centerpiece Add granola for a parfait bar or layer over a sheet cake for an unexpected twist Pair it with sparkling herbal teas or even a splash of prosecco for grown-up parties
Cultural and Historical Context
This simple way of serving fruit echoes Asian and South American chilled desserts that rely on ripe local ingredients and not much added sugar The act of shaving or crushing frozen fruit is celebrated in markets from Korea to Brazil It is all about making the fruit the star
Shaved frozen fruit is an instant celebration of the season. Snack, dessert, or party trick it surprises everyone and disappears fast!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What fruits work best for shaving?
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Ripe mangoes, strawberries, kiwi, and blueberries work well. You can also use peaches, pineapple, or watermelon for variety.
- → How do I get thin, even fruit slices?
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A mandoline slicer or sharp vegetable peeler gives the most consistent thin slices, especially for larger fruits.
- → Are there vegan topping options?
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Yes, use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt and select maple syrup instead of honey for a fully vegan option.
- → Can I add extra texture?
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Toasted nuts, seeds, or crunchy granola make great additions for extra texture and flavor contrast.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
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This treat is best enjoyed immediately after assembly. Leftovers will lose texture as the fruit thaws.