Cherries In The Snow
Cherries In The Snow is a delightful dessert featuring crisp, nutty meringue layers topped with fluffy Cool Whip and juicy cherries. Its sweet, crunchy, and creamy flavors make it a perfect treat for gatherings or special occasions, appealing to those who enjoy a combination of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Butter a 9 x 13-inch glass pan.
- Beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
- Add vanilla extract, chopped nuts, and crushed soda crackers to the egg white mixture and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
- Allow to cool completely.
- Spread Cool Whip on top, forming high peaks.
- Top with cherries.
- Refrigerate leftovers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the egg whites are at room temperature before beating. If you don't have Cool Whip, you can substitute with homemade whipped cream. For added flavor, consider mixing in some almond extract with the vanilla. You can also use different nuts like pecans or walnuts instead of the standard chopped nuts for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cherries In The Snow chilled for the best flavor and texture. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a slice of rich chocolate cake. This refreshing dessert is perfect for summer gatherings or holiday celebrations, making it a delightful choice after a rich meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid stacking the layers to prevent sogginess. If you need to reheat, it’s best to serve it cold as the texture is intended to be light and fluffy, which might not hold up well when warmed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherries In The Snow contains roughly 221 calories, with 8g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% 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 cherries instead of canned?
Yes, fresh cherries can be used! Just pit and slice them before topping the dessert. Fresh cherries will add a vibrant taste and texture, although you'll need to sweeten them slightly if they're not very sweet on their own.
What can I substitute for soda crackers?
If you don’t have soda crackers, you can use crushed graham crackers or even digestive biscuits as a substitute. They will provide a slightly different flavor, but will still give a nice crunch to the dessert.
How do I prevent the egg whites from deflating?
To prevent deflation, ensure that no yolk gets mixed in with the whites, and use a clean, dry bowl for whipping. Beating the egg whites gradually while incorporating sugar helps stabilize them, allowing for a firmer meringue that holds its shape during baking.
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).