Holiday Cherry Salad
A festive and sweet cherry salad featuring cherry pie filling, crushed pineapple, and Cool Whip, perfect for holiday gatherings and fruit-loving dessert fans.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cherry pie filling, drained crushed pineapple, Cool Whip, and sweetened condensed milk in a large bowl.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 4 to 6 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using sugar-free cherry pie filling and Cool Whip. You can also substitute the crushed pineapple with diced fresh fruit like mango or strawberries for a twist. If you prefer a firmer texture, let it chill longer or use less condensed milk. This salad is versatile and can be a great addition to any holiday spread, alongside dishes like Nutty Sandwich.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Holiday Cherry Salad as a refreshing side at your holiday gatherings. It pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like Smothered Steak Roll-Ups or can be enjoyed as a dessert on its own. Garnish with chopped nuts or shredded coconut for added texture, and consider serving it alongside Ambrosia Pound Cake for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld over time, making it even more delicious. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the Cool Whip may change upon thawing. Just give it a good stir before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Cherry Salad contains roughly 574 calories, with 11g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (24% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C.
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, but you'll need to sweeten them and provide a bit of thickening to mimic the filling's consistency. Cook the cherries with sugar and a bit of cornstarch until thickened, then allow to cool before mixing with the other ingredients.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this salad dairy-free, substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a dairy-free alternative like coconut condensed milk, and use a non-dairy whipped topping. This way, you can still enjoy a creamy, delicious salad without the dairy.
Is it possible to make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent any odors from the fridge affecting its taste. Give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh the texture.
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).