Alma'S Cherry Dream Salad
A tropical cherry dessert salad that blends sweet pineapple, cherry pie filling, creamy condensed milk, whipped topping, nuts, and marshmallows into a dreamy, frosty treat perfect for parties or a quick dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix crushed pineapple, cherry pie filling, condensed milk, and chopped pecans in a large bowl.
- Fold in whipped topping until well combined.
- Fold in marshmallows gently.
- Transfer mixture to a mold or a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Serve immediately, or chill or freeze for later use.
Tips & Substitutions
For added texture, consider substituting walnuts for pecans if desired. You can also use fresh cherries if in season, but ensure they're pitted. If you prefer a lighter version, opt for low-fat whipped topping and reduced-fat condensed milk. Adjust sweetness by reducing or omitting the cherry pie filling and adding fresh fruit instead.
Serving Suggestions
This refreshing salad is perfect for summer gatherings or as a light dessert. Serve alongside Barbecue Meatball Appetizers for a balanced meal. Consider garnishing with additional whipped topping and a sprinkle of pecans or fresh cherries for an appealing presentation. It's an ideal dish for potlucks or holiday celebrations.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. If you choose to freeze, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Note that texture may change slightly upon freezing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Alma'S Cherry Dream Salad contains roughly 543 calories, with 8g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (33% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated and cover it well to maintain freshness. However, if you add marshmallows, consider folding them in just before serving to prevent them from becoming too soggy.
What can I use instead of cherry pie filling?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute cherry pie filling with blueberry or strawberry pie filling. Alternatively, fresh or canned fruit mixed with a bit of sugar and cornstarch can create a homemade fruit filling for a unique twist.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this salad is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or animal-derived ingredients aside from the whipped topping. To ensure it fits all dietary preferences, check that the whipped topping used is free from gelatin, which can sometimes be included in certain brands.
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).