Bing Cherry Salad Cups
A sweet and creamy cherry salad served in colorful cups, blending tart Bing cherries, bananas, pecans, and pineapple with a pink sour cream base, perfect for refreshing gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sour cream, sugar, salt, drained pineapple, and enough red food coloring to achieve a pretty pink color in a mixing bowl.
- Gently fold in chopped pecans, Bing cherries, and diced banana until evenly distributed.
- Line cupcake papers in cupcake tins to prepare for serving.
- Spoon the salad into the cupcake cups and freeze until firm before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. If you prefer a nut-free option, you can omit the pecans or substitute them with sunflower seeds. Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar based on your taste. Make sure to drain the pineapple well to avoid excess liquid in the salad. This recipe also pairs wonderfully with Fruit Surprise Pudding for a delightful dessert spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cherry salad cups as a refreshing dessert at summer gatherings or potlucks. They can be garnished with additional chopped pecans or a sprinkle of coconut for added texture. Pair with a light, fruity drink or a side of Sweet Cream Cheese Frosting for an indulgent touch. These cups can also complement a variety of American recipes, making them versatile for any occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one week. To enjoy, let the salad cups thaw in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. If they become too soft, you can refreeze them briefly to regain firmness, but avoid repeated thawing and freezing to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bing Cherry Salad Cups contains roughly 426 calories, with 8g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 658mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
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 fresh Bing cherries instead of canned?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh Bing cherries if they are in season. Just pit and chop them before folding into the salad. Fresh cherries will add a nice crunch and vibrant flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall freshness of the salad cups.
How long do these salad cups take to freeze?
The salad cups typically take about 2-3 hours to freeze until firm. However, for best results, it's recommended to leave them in the freezer for at least 4 hours or overnight if time allows. This ensures they hold their shape well when served.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad up to a day in advance and freeze it in the cupcake cups. Just be sure to cover them well with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. They will be ready to serve when your guests arrive.
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).