Indulgent Cherry Bliss Fruit Salad: A Sweet and Luxurious Dessert
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy to make, yet still has the “wow” factor, then Indulgent Cherry Bliss Fruit Salad is exactly what you need. This irresistible creation combines the sweetness of cherry pie filling with the creaminess of whipped topping and the tanginess of crushed pineapple, creating a balance of flavors that is hard to resist. Its soft, fluffy texture paired with mini marshmallows and optional crunchy pecans adds depth to every bite, making it a showstopper for any occasion.
Whether you’re planning a picnic, potluck, brunch, or simply a casual family dinner, this dessert salad brings a touch of indulgence to the table. You can serve it as a light, refreshing finish to any meal or even as a standalone treat. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, delicate pasta, or any savory main dish, and can be presented elegantly in dessert cups or martini glasses for special occasions. The simplicity of the ingredients also means you can whip it up quickly, making it perfect for busy hosts.
Let’s dive into the recipe for this dreamy dessert!
Indulgent Cherry Bliss Fruit Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
- 21 ounces cherry pie filling
- 8 ounces cool whip, thawed
- 20 ounces crushed pineapple, drained
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 100 grams mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional, for added crunch)
Instructions:
Step 1: Combine the Cherry Pie Filling
In a large mixing bowl, add the entire can of cherry pie filling. The cherry pie filling serves as the base flavor for the salad, giving it a bold and vibrant sweetness that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
Step 2: Gently Fold in the Cool Whip
Next, gently fold in the thawed cool whip. Be sure to maintain its airy texture while combining it with the cherry filling. The whipped topping adds creaminess and lightens up the overall texture, making it smooth and luscious.
Step 3: Add the Crushed Pineapple
Now, stir in the drained crushed pineapple. The pineapple provides a hint of tropical flavor and a slightly tangy contrast to the sweetness of the cherries and cool whip. Make sure it is well-drained to avoid excess moisture, which could make the salad too watery.
Step 4: Stir in Sweetened Condensed Milk
Add the sweetened condensed milk to the mixture and stir until everything is well combined. The condensed milk enhances the sweetness and richness, creating a silky consistency throughout the salad.
Step 5: Incorporate the Mini Marshmallows
Gently fold in the mini marshmallows to add a fun, chewy texture to the dessert. The marshmallows also help give the salad more body and contribute to the overall fluffiness.
Step 6: Add Pecans (Optional)
For an added layer of texture, sprinkle in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans. This optional ingredient brings a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the softness of the whipped topping and marshmallows.
Step 7: Chill and Let the Flavors Develop
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the texture, making it even more delicious.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Before serving, give the mixture a gentle stir to ensure everything is evenly distributed. For an extra touch, garnish each serving with additional cherries or a sprinkle of chopped pecans.
Serve in individual cups or martini glasses for a classy presentation, or simply spoon it into a large serving bowl for a family-style dessert.
Tips for the Perfect Cherry Bliss Fruit Salad
1. Customize with Your Favorite Fruits
If you want to get creative, feel free to add other fruits like mandarin oranges, sliced bananas, or fresh berries. These additions can bring extra layers of flavor and color to the salad.
2. Make It Ahead
This dessert can be made up to 24 hours in advance, making it a great option for entertaining. The flavors actually improve after chilling, so making it ahead will ensure a well-developed taste.
3. Healthier Substitutions
To lighten up the recipe, you can substitute light cool whip or use a sugar-free version of the whipped topping. You can also try using unsweetened condensed milk to reduce the overall sugar content.
4. Serving Suggestions
Pair this indulgent salad with savory dishes like grilled chicken, roasted pork, or pasta salads. The sweetness balances well with savory flavors, creating a delightful contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Yes, but keep in mind that fresh cherries won’t have the same sweetness and syrupy consistency as cherry pie filling. If you use fresh cherries, you might want to cook them down with some sugar and cornstarch to create a pie-like filling.
2. Can I freeze Cherry Bliss Fruit Salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze this dessert, as the texture of the whipped topping and marshmallows can change upon thawing, resulting in a watery consistency. It’s best enjoyed fresh and chilled.
3. What can I use as a substitute for cool whip?
If you prefer not to use cool whip, you can make homemade whipped cream by beating heavy cream with a little