Willie Pearl'S Frozen Cherry Salad
A refreshing frozen cherry salad with sweet cherries, pineapple, mandarin oranges, marshmallows, and pecans, perfect for summer gatherings and family desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the fruits and reserve a few cherries and orange segments for garnish.
- Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature.
- Beat the cream cheese until fluffy and blend in sour cream, sugar, and salt.
- Fold in the drained fruits, marshmallows, and chopped pecans.
- Pour the mixture into a loaf pan and freeze for 6 hours or overnight.
- Unmold the frozen salad and garnish with reserved orange segments and cherries.
- Optional: Freeze in muffin cups for individual servings.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a tangy twist, or use low-fat cream cheese to reduce calories. Adding a splash of lemon juice can enhance the flavors of the fruits. If you're short on time, use pre-chopped pecans for convenience. This salad pairs beautifully with Strawberry Sipper.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this frozen cherry salad as a delightful dessert or side dish at gatherings. It complements savory dishes like grilled meats or as part of a summer picnic spread. Garnish with fresh mint or a sprinkle of coconut for added flair. For a fun twist, consider serving alongside the French Toast - Overnight for a brunch gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one month. To enjoy again, simply transfer it to the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. Avoid refreezing after thawing, as it may alter the texture. If you’ve made individual servings in muffin cups, they can be easily grabbed for a quick treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Willie Pearl'S Frozen Cherry Salad contains roughly 605 calories, with 11g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (50% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1353mg per serving (59% 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 in place of canned dark sweet cherries. Just make sure to pit and chop them before adding to the mixture. Keep in mind that fresh cherries will provide a different texture and flavor, so adjust the sweetness if needed.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version of this frozen cherry salad, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and use coconut yogurt instead of sour cream. You can also replace sugar with maple syrup or agave nectar for a natural sweetener.
How can I make this salad more festive for holidays?
To make this salad more festive, consider adding seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds or finely chopped apples. You can also incorporate a splash of cranberry juice for a holiday flavor. Serving it in a decorative bowl and garnishing with edible flowers will enhance its visual appeal.
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).