Frozen Noel Salad
Frozen Noel Salad is a delightful, creamy dessert combining sweet cherries, pineapple, and walnuts with whipped cream, all blended into a luscious frozen treat. Its festive flavors make it perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions, offering a cool, sweet, and nutty flavor profile that appeals to a wide range of guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese and blend it with mayonnaise until smooth.
- Add the canned sweet cherries, crushed pineapple, and chopped walnuts to the mixture.
- Fold the whipped cream into the mixture gently until well combined.
- Spoon the mixture into an 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 2 1/2-inch loaf pan.
- Cover tightly and freeze until firm.
- To serve, unmold the salad and slice into servings.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt, which will still provide creaminess without the extra calories. If you don't have walnuts, try using chopped pecans or almonds for a different flavor. Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for easier blending, and consider adding a splash of almond extract for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
This Frozen Noel Salad makes a delightful dessert after a festive meal and pairs beautifully with a light, fruity sorbet. Consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit platter to enhance its flavors. For a complete holiday experience, complement it with dishes like Corn Casserole Pudding or Fried Corn Cakes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month. When ready to serve again, let it thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before slicing. Do not refreeze after thawing to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Frozen Noel Salad contains roughly 329 calories, with 4g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 32g fat.
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 fruit instead of canned?
While canned fruit provides a sweeter and more consistent flavor, you can use fresh cherries and pineapple. Just be sure to chop and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
How long does it take to freeze?
Typically, this salad will need at least 4-6 hours to freeze completely. It’s best to prepare it the day before serving to ensure it’s firm and ready to slice.
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead of time! Prepare and freeze it up to a week in advance to save time on the day of your gathering.
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).