Fruit On Clouds
Light and airy dessert featuring crisp cracker layers topped with whipped cream, perfect for parties or casual gatherings with a sweet, nutty crunch and creamy topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the egg whites, cream of tartar, and vanilla until bubbly.
- Gradually add sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
- Add crushed crackers and chopped nuts to the egg white mixture.
- Spread the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
- Allow to cool completely.
- Top with Cool Whip and pie filling before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your egg whites are at room temperature before beating. If you want to add more flavor, consider incorporating some almond extract along with the vanilla. You can substitute the Waverly crackers with any sweetened cracker or even crushed graham crackers for a different taste. For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower seeds.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled and cut into squares for a refreshing dessert. This dish pairs beautifully with fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries. You can also serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat. Consider offering a side of Crazy Apple Pie for a delightful dessert duo that will please any crowd.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The dessert may lose some of its texture over time, but the flavors will still be delicious. If you want to reheat it, do so gently in the oven at a low temperature, but note that the Cool Whip topping should be added fresh before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit On Clouds contains roughly 297 calories, with 4g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (37% 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 egg substitutes in this recipe?
Yes, you can use egg substitutes for the egg whites, but the texture may differ. Look for products specifically designed for baking or use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as a vegan alternative. Remember that the key to achieving stiff peaks is crucial for the success of this recipe.
How can I make this dessert gluten-free?
To make Fruit On Clouds gluten-free, substitute the Waverly crackers with gluten-free crackers or crushed gluten-free cookies. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the Cool Whip, are certified gluten-free. This way, you can still enjoy this delicious dessert without gluten.
What can I use instead of Cool Whip?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can whip heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar and vanilla extract to create a fluffy topping. This will give a fresher taste and a similar texture to Cool Whip. Just make sure to add it right before serving to maintain its lightness.
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).