Cheese Delight
A creamy, fruity dessert with pineapple, cherries, and nuts, layered with whipped cream and cheese, perfect for a refreshing, crowd-pleasing treat or special occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix crushed pineapple (drained) and marshmallows and let set for 2 hours or until marshmallows are softened.
- Mix together the softened pineapple and marshmallows with cream cheese and mayonnaise until creamy.
- Whip the double cream until stiff peaks form.
- Combine the pineapple-marshmallow mixture with the cream cheese and mayonnaise mixture.
- Fold gently until well blended, then add cherries and nutmeats.
- Pour the mixture into a suitable dish and freeze until set.
- Use quick freeze for faster setting.
- Do not stir after freezing.
- Serve chilled as a delightful dessert.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a tangy twist. If you prefer a fruity flavor, try adding diced strawberries or peaches alongside the pineapple. Letting the marshmallows soften for a full 2 hours is crucial for achieving the right texture. Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful dessert chilled, garnished with additional cherries or a sprinkle of crushed nuts on top. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a slice of cake. For a complete meal, consider serving it after a light salad or a refreshing yogurt dessert for a balanced end to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. To enjoy, transfer the dish to the refrigerator and let it thaw for several hours before serving. Avoid refreezing once thawed to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Delight contains roughly 937 calories, with 5g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 87g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (53% of the Daily Value) and iron (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 549mg per serving (24% 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 a different type of cream cheese?
You can use any brand of cream cheese, but make sure it’s full-fat for the best texture and flavor. Low-fat varieties may not whip as well, affecting the overall creaminess of the dessert.
What can I substitute for the nutmeats?
If you have nut allergies, try using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch. You can also omit them entirely and add more fruits for a vibrant flavor.
How long does the dessert need to freeze?
Typically, the dessert should freeze for at least 4-6 hours or until fully set. For quicker results, use the quick freeze setting if your freezer has one, but avoid stirring after freezing for the best consistency.
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).