If you’re craving a dessert that’s both delightfully sweet and wonderfully refreshing, you’ve got to try this Cherry Salad Recipe. It’s a classic southern treat that feels like a celebration in every bite, combining fruity cherries, creamy condensed milk, and fluffy whipped topping that dance together perfectly with the crunch of nuts and the playful chew of mini marshmallows. Whether you’re serving it at a potluck, family dinner, or just spoiling yourself with a simple, no-fuss dessert, this Cherry Salad Recipe always delivers comfort and joy without any baking required.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cherry Salad Recipe shines because of its simple yet essential ingredients, each adding its own special touch to the flavor, texture, and color. From luscious cherry pie filling to the light and airy whipped topping, every component plays a vital role in making the salad irresistibly creamy and fun.
- Cherry pie filling (21 oz): The star ingredient that gives the salad its bright cherry flavor and lovely red color.
- Sweetened condensed milk (14 oz): Adds rich sweetness and a silky texture that ties all the flavors together.
- Whipped topping (8 oz, thawed): Provides a light and fluffy creaminess that balances the dense sweetness.
- Crushed pineapple (20 oz, drained): Brings a tropical zing and juicy bite to keep the salad fresh and vibrant.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (1/2 cup): Offers a satisfying crunch and a hint of nutty flavor to contrast the soft textures.
- Mini marshmallows (1 cup): Adds a whimsical, sweet chewiness that makes this salad feel extra special.
How to Make Cherry Salad Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Cherry and Condensed Milk
Start by pouring the cherry pie filling into a large mixing bowl. Then add the sweetened condensed milk and stir until the two come together in creamy, vibrant harmony. This is the delicious base that will carry the flavors of your salad perfectly.
Step 2: Add Crushed Pineapple
Next, fold in the drained crushed pineapple gently. The pineapple adds wonderful moisture and a sweet-tart punch that brightens up the whole dish, keeping it from feeling too heavy.
Step 3: Incorporate the Whipped Topping
Now, the magic happens when you fold in the thawed whipped topping. This ingredient lightens up the mixture, giving the salad that cloudlike, dreamy texture you’re aiming for. Be gentle—fold it in carefully to keep it airy.
Step 4: Add Nuts and Mini Marshmallows
Finally, sprinkle in your chopped nuts and mini marshmallows. These add texture and a playful bite that bring the Cherry Salad Recipe to life. Mix everything just enough to distribute evenly without crushing the marshmallows.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour. This chilling time lets all the flavors mingle and ensures every spoonful is perfectly cool and refreshing. It’s truly worth the wait!
How to Serve Cherry Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Cherry Salad Recipe look as amazing as it tastes, consider topping it off with a few halved maraschino cherries or a sprinkle of extra chopped nuts right before serving. A little bright green mint leaf adds a fresh pop of color and aroma that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with light, summery meals. Think grilled chicken, fresh green salads, or even a simple cheese platter. Its sweet and tangy nature makes it a lovely counterpart to savory mains, providing balance to your spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Cherry Salad Recipe in individual clear cups or small mason jars. Layer it with extra cherries or even a drizzle of cherry syrup on top. This makes it perfect for parties or picnics, where convenience and flair go hand in hand.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may absorb some moisture over time, but a quick stir before serving helps refresh its texture and flavor.
Freezing
Because this salad relies heavily on whipped topping and marshmallows, freezing is not recommended. Freezing can alter the texture, causing the whipped topping to separate and the marshmallows to harden.
Reheating
Cherry Salad Recipe is meant to be served cold, so reheating isn’t necessary or advisable. If it’s been chilled, just give it a gentle stir and enjoy it straight from the fridge for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries add a bright, natural flavor, but you’ll want to sweeten them slightly and perhaps add a bit of cornstarch to thicken, mimicking the pie filling’s consistency for the best results.
What can I substitute for nuts if I have allergies?
You can swap the nuts for shredded coconut or even crunchy cereal for texture. The salad remains delicious and safe for those with nut allergies.
Is this salad suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, all the ingredients in this Cherry Salad Recipe are vegetarian-friendly, making it a wonderful dessert option for your vegetarian friends and family.
Can I prepare this salad in advance for a party?
Definitely! Preparing the salad a few hours ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep it chilled, and give it a quick stir before serving.
Are there any variations to this Cherry Salad Recipe?
Yes! You can add other fruits like mandarin oranges or blueberries, or substitute the whipped topping with Greek yogurt for a tangier twist. Feel free to get creative!
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Salad Recipe is such a heartwarming and versatile dish that it deserves a spot in your recipe collection. It’s easy, no-bake, and perfectly suited to so many occasions, from casual family dinners to celebratory gatherings. I encourage you to whip up a batch and share it with the people you love—the smiles and satisfied sighs will tell you exactly why this recipe has remained a classic for so long.
Print
Cherry Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy-to-make Cherry Salad is a delightful no-bake dessert that combines the sweetness of cherry pie filling and crushed pineapple with creamy whipped topping, crunchy nuts, and mini marshmallows. Perfect for potlucks or holiday gatherings, this American classic fruit fluff salad offers a refreshing, creamy treat that’s ready in minutes and best served chilled.
Ingredients
Fruit and Dairy
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Combine Cherry Filling and Condensed Milk: In a large mixing bowl, pour in the cherry pie filling and sweetened condensed milk. Stir them together gently until they are well incorporated.
- Add Crushed Pineapple: Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly, then stir it into the cherry and milk mixture until evenly mixed.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Carefully fold the thawed whipped topping into the mixture, blending it gently until the salad is creamy and smooth without overmixing.
- Add Nuts and Marshmallows: Sprinkle in the chopped walnuts or pecans and the mini marshmallows. Gently mix them into the salad to ensure they are evenly distributed.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cherry salad for at least 1 hour to chill and allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
- Serve: Serve the salad cold, either straight from the bowl or spooned into individual cups for convenient, portioned servings perfect for any occasion.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, substitute the chopped nuts with shredded coconut.
- To add extra color and flavor, fold in halved maraschino cherries or use a combination of red and green mini marshmallows, especially during the holiday season.
