Cherries And Berries On A Cloud
A delightful layered dessert combining fluffy meringue, creamy cheese filling, and sweet cherry topping, perfect for special occasions or a light, fruity treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle cream of tartar over egg whites.
- Beat egg whites to soft peaks, gradually adding salt and sugar, and continue beating to stiff peaks.
- Pour the meringue mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Preheat oven to 400°F, then turn off the oven.
- Place the meringue in the oven and leave overnight.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are clean and free of grease when whipping the egg whites. If you don’t have cream of tartar, you can substitute with an equal amount of lemon juice or white vinegar. Consider using a flavored whipped cream, such as vanilla or almond, to enhance the dish. Experiment by adding fresh berries or nuts for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled, topped with the cherry pie filling and whipped cream for a delightful contrast of flavors. This dessert pairs beautifully with Blueberry Or Cherry Delight Pie for a mixed berry theme. Consider adding fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness. It's perfect for summer gatherings or holiday celebrations.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The meringue may lose its crispness over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If you need to reheat, allow it to come to room temperature and then briefly warm in a low oven to restore some of its original texture, but avoid overheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherries And Berries On A Cloud contains roughly 548 calories, with 10g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1108mg per serving (48% 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
What can I do if my meringue doesn't reach stiff peaks?
If your meringue isn't reaching stiff peaks, ensure there is no fat in your bowl or on your beaters. Make sure the egg whites are at room temperature and that you gradually add sugar. If it still doesn't work, try adding a bit more cream of tartar to stabilize the mixture.
Can I use a different type of fruit filling?
Yes, you can substitute the cherry pie filling with other fruit fillings like blueberry or mixed berry for a different flavor profile. Fresh fruits such as strawberries or raspberries also work well for a fresher taste. Just ensure the fruit is well-drained if using fresh to avoid sogginess.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any flour. Just be sure to check the labels on your sugar and cream cheese to ensure they are gluten-free. You can also serve it with gluten-free treats on the side for those with dietary restrictions.
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).