Alaskan Salad
Alaskan Salad is a creamy, fruity dessert with cranberry and pineapple flavors, topped with whipped cream and pecans, perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the cream cheese until smooth.
- Add mayonnaise and sugar to the cream cheese and mix well.
- Add the whole cranberry sauce, crushed pineapple, and chopped pecans; stir to combine.
- Whip the whipping cream until soft peaks form.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla to the whipped cream and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
- Fold the whipped cream mixture into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a 12 x 7-inch Pyrex dish and freeze for at least 6 hours.
- Serve chilled, and enjoy the long-lasting, flavorful dessert.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. If you don't have crushed pineapple, canned peaches or pears can work as a substitute. To enhance the flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese mixture. This dessert can be made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Alaskan Salad as a refreshing dessert after a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as part of a potluck spread. Garnish with additional chopped pecans or a sprig of mint for an elegant touch. Consider serving alongside Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pie for an impressive dessert table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks. To enjoy, simply remove from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving to soften slightly. Avoid refreezing after thawing to maintain the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Alaskan Salad contains roughly 619 calories, with 7g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of nut in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you're not a fan of pecans, walnuts or almonds can be great alternatives. Just remember to chop them finely and toast them lightly for added flavor.
Is it necessary to freeze the salad for 6 hours?
Yes, freezing for at least 6 hours is crucial for achieving the right texture. This allows the ingredients to meld together and set properly. If you're short on time, aim for a minimum of 4 hours.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative, use vegan mayonnaise, and replace the whipping cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free whipped topping. Adjust the sugar and vanilla as needed to suit your taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).