Cherry Frozen Dessert
A creamy, fruity frozen dessert combining sweet cherries, pineapple, and smooth cream cheese, perfect for parties or a refreshing treat on hot days. Versatile in presentation, it can be served as individual frozen bites or as a classic pie with a graham cracker crust, appealing to those who enjoy rich, fruity flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into cupcake liners in muffin pans and freeze until firm.
- Alternatively, pour the mixture into a graham cracker crust, freeze, and serve as a pie.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a lighter dessert, consider using a low-fat cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative. You can also substitute the cherry pie filling with other fruit fillings or fresh fruit for a twist. Adding chopped nuts can provide a nice crunch, similar to the texture found in Sugar Coated Pecans.
Serving Suggestions
These cherry frozen desserts are delightful on their own or can be served with a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added indulgence. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a more complete dessert experience, consider serving alongside a slice of Pumpkin-Pecan Tea Loaf or fresh fruit.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer. To maintain the best texture, consume within two to three weeks. If you want to serve them later, simply remove from the freezer and allow to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before enjoying. Avoid refreezing thawed portions to retain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Frozen Dessert contains roughly 476 calories, with 7g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. It also contributes 4g 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 use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries! Just be sure to pit and chop them before mixing with the other ingredients. You may want to add a bit of sugar to sweeten them, as fresh cherries can be tart.
How long does it take to freeze the dessert?
Typically, it takes about 4-6 hours for the dessert to freeze completely. For best results, freeze overnight. If using cupcake liners, check for firmness before serving to ensure they hold their shape.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! This dessert can be made several days in advance and stored in the freezer until you’re ready to serve. Just remember to allow it to soften slightly before serving for easier scooping.
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).