Yummy Cherry Salad
A delightful cherry salad featuring layers of raspberry and lemon Jell-O combined with cherry pie filling, pineapple, marshmallows, and whipped cream. Topped with pecans, this sweet, creamy dish is perfect for gatherings and adds a colorful, flavorful touch to any dessert table.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve raspberry Jell-O in 1 cup boiling water.
- Stir in cherry pie filling.
- Pour into a 9-inch square pan and chill until partially set.
- Dissolve lemon Jell-O in 1 cup boiling water.
- Combine cream cheese and mayonnaise and mix well.
- Stir in lemon Jell-O, crushed pineapple, and mini marshmallows.
- Fold in whipped cream.
- Spread lemon mixture over the cherry layer.
- Sprinkle with chopped pecans.
- Chill until firm, then cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling. If you need a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise. Make sure to let each Jell-O layer set properly before adding the next to achieve distinct layers. You can also add a splash of almond extract for an extra depth of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Yummy Cherry Salad as a delightful side at picnics or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a light dessert. For a fun twist, consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a creamy contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert is best enjoyed cold, so there's no need to reheat. If it becomes too firm, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Yummy Cherry Salad contains roughly 866 calories, with 9g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (72% of the Daily Value), iron (55% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 550mg per serving (24% 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just ensure that it is covered well in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, making it even more delicious.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lower-fat option, you can use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt as a substitute. This will maintain the creaminess while reducing calories.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products. Just ensure that the Jell-O used is vegetarian, as some gelatin products may contain animal derivatives.
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).