Description
This Cherry Fluff Salad is a creamy, fruity dessert that’s incredibly easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s a no-bake classic that takes just minutes to prepare, making it perfect for potlucks, parties, or a quick sweet treat. The combination of cherry pie filling, pineapple, marshmallows, and whipped topping creates a light, fluffy texture and a burst of fruity flavor that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
- 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 tub (8 ounces) whipped topping, thawed
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Gather all your ingredients. This will make the process smoother and ensure you have everything you need on hand.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry pie filling, drained crushed pineapple, and sweetened condensed milk. Make sure the pineapple is well-drained to prevent the salad from becoming too watery.
Step 3: Stir the ingredients together until they are well combined. The mixture should be uniform in color and consistency.
Step 4: Add the mini marshmallows and chopped nuts (if using) to the bowl. Stir gently to distribute them evenly throughout the mixture.
Step 5: Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until everything is well mixed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the whipped topping to deflate and lose its fluffiness.
Step 6: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container.
Step 7: Chill the Cherry Fluff Salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to become nice and cold.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Easy to make: This recipe requires no baking and minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
- Crowd-pleasing: Everyone loves the sweet, fruity flavor and fluffy texture of this classic dessert salad.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste by adding different fruits, nuts, or flavorings.
- Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare this salad a day or two in advance, making it a great option for entertaining.
- No-Bake: Perfect for hot weather or when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chilled as a dessert or side dish at potlucks, picnics, or parties.
- Top with extra whipped cream, a sprinkle of nuts, or a maraschino cherry for a festive presentation.
- Serve with graham crackers or vanilla wafers for dipping.
- Pair with grilled meats or sandwiches for a balanced meal.
- Enjoy it as a refreshing treat on a hot summer day.
Tips:
- Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple well to prevent the salad from becoming too watery. You can even press the pineapple with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Use thawed whipped topping for the best results. Frozen whipped topping can be difficult to fold in smoothly.
- If you don’t have pecans or walnuts on hand, you can use other nuts such as almonds, macadamia nuts, or even shredded coconut.
- For a more intense cherry flavor, you can add a few drops of cherry extract to the salad.
- If you want to make this salad ahead of time, you can prepare it up to 2 days in advance. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (includes chilling time)
Nutrition Information: (Estimates will vary based on specific ingredients used)
- Calories: Approximately 250-350 per serving
- Protein: 2-4 grams per serving
- Sodium: 50-100mg per serving
Conclusion
Cherry Fluff Salad is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture, fruity flavor, and simple preparation make it a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a quick sweet treat or a crowd-pleasing dish for a party, this Cherry Fluff Salad is sure to satisfy. Enjoy the burst of cherry and pineapple in every bite of this classic no-bake dessert.
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
- Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
- While you could technically use fresh cherries, the cherry pie filling provides a specific sweetness and thickened consistency that is essential to the recipe. If you use fresh cherries, you’ll need to add sugar and a thickening agent like cornstarch to achieve a similar result. The flavor will also be different.
- Can I make this recipe without marshmallows?
- Yes, you can omit the marshmallows if you prefer. However, they add to the fluffy texture of the salad. If you leave them out, the salad will be slightly less fluffy.
- Can I use a different flavor of pie filling?
- Absolutely! You can experiment with different flavors of pie filling, such as blueberry, strawberry, or apple. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile of the salad will change accordingly.
- How long does Cherry Fluff Salad last in the refrigerator?
- Cherry Fluff Salad can last for up to 2-3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. However, the texture may change slightly over time as the whipped topping deflates.
- Can I freeze Cherry Fluff Salad?
- Freezing is not recommended, as the whipped topping and marshmallows can become watery and lose their texture when thawed. It’s best to make this salad fresh and enjoy it within a few days.
