Ingredients
- 21 ounces (1 can) cherry pie filling
- 8 ounces (1 container) whipped topping, thawed
- 20 ounces (1 can) crushed pineapple, drained
- 14 ounces (1 can) sweetened condensed milk
- 100 milliliters mini marshmallows
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Preparation
- Combine Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cherry pie filling.
- Fold in the Whipped Topping
- Gently fold the whipped topping into the cherry filling, ensuring the mixture stays light and airy.
- Add Pineapple
- Stir in the drained crushed pineapple, mixing until evenly combined.
- Incorporate Sweetened Condensed Milk
- Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and mix thoroughly.
- Mix in Marshmallows
- Add the mini marshmallows, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Optional Topping
- For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans on top.
- Chill
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours, to enhance flavor and texture.
- Serve
- Before serving, gently stir the mixture and spoon it into dessert dishes. For a decorative touch, top with additional cherries if desired.
Enjoy this deliciously sweet fruit salad as a dessert or a festive addition to any gathering!
Variations and Tips
- Flavor Variations
- Berry Mix: Swap cherry pie filling for blueberry or strawberry pie filling for a different flavor.
- Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to brighten the flavor.
- Tropical Blend: Replace marshmallows with shredded coconut or diced mango for a tropical flair.
- Texture Enhancements
- Crunchy Additions: Use chopped walnuts, almonds, or even crushed graham crackers instead of pecans.
- Creamier Option: Mix in 4 ounces of softened cream cheese with the whipped topping for a richer texture.
- Sweetness Control
- Use unsweetened whipped cream or reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk if you prefer a less sweet salad.
- Substitutions
- For a healthier version, replace whipped topping with Greek yogurt and use light sweetened condensed milk.
- Substitute mini marshmallows with diced marshmallow fluff for a softer consistency.
- Serving Ideas
- Serve in dessert cups or parfait glasses for an elegant presentation.
- Use as a topping for sponge cake, pound cake, or waffles.
- Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir gently before serving.
- Pro Tip
- For a more pronounced cherry flavor, drizzle a tablespoon of cherry syrup over the salad before serving.
Feel free to mix and match these variations to suit your taste or the occasion!