Cherry Fluff Cheesecake Salad

This Cherry Fluff Cheesecake Salad is a delightful and refreshing dessert perfect for any occasion. Combining the creamy richness of cream cheese with the sweetness of Cool Whip, fruit cocktail, and maraschino cherries, this salad is both decadent and light. The addition of chopped pecans and miniature marshmallows adds a satisfying crunch and extra sweetness.

Ideal for potlucks, parties, or simply as a special treat, this dessert is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time for a hassle-free sweet ending to your meal. Enjoy this fluffy, fruity, and indulgent salad chilled for the best taste and texture!

Cherry Fluff Cheesecake Salad

Ingredients

1 can, 20 ounces of crushed pineapple, drained

1 can, 20 ounces canned fruit cocktail, RESERVE the juice

1 16 ounce jar of maraschino cherries, no stems or seeds

1 8 ounce tub of Cool whip whipped topping

1 8 ounce block of cream cheese, softened

1 cup pecans, chopped

3 cups miniature marshmallows

2 tbsp powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 1:

Using a hand mixer, combine the cream cheese and the powdered sugar until it is creamy.

Step 2:

Add in the juice from the fruit cocktail, the whipping cream topping

Mix until this is well combined

Step 3:

Fold in the fruit, the marshmallow and the chopped pecans

Chill for several hours or preferably overnight and covered in the refrigerator.

Enjoy!

Notes:

Texture and Taste: This dessert has a creamy and fluffy texture with a combination of sweet and tart flavors from the fruit and cream cheese. The marshmallows and pecans provide added texture and crunch.

Preparation Tips: Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple and fruit cocktail well to avoid excess liquid, which can affect the consistency of the salad. Reserve some fruit cocktail juice for added flavor and mixing.

Chilling Time: The salad benefits from several hours or overnight chilling in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to firm up.

Serving Suggestions: This salad is best served chilled. It pairs well with a variety of fresh fruits or as a standalone dessert. Consider garnishing with extra pecans or cherries for added visual appeal.

Variations: You can customize the salad by adding other fruits such as strawberries or blueberries. For a different flavor profile, try using different types of nuts or adding a splash of vanilla extract.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad should be consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Make-Ahead: This recipe is great for making ahead of time, making it ideal for parties, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.

Dietary Considerations: Be mindful of the high sugar content and fat if you’re watching your diet. This dessert is quite rich, so consider serving it in smaller portions.

Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to ensure it mixes smoothly with the powdered sugar and other ingredients.

Cool Whip: For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat Cool Whip or a homemade whipped cream alternative.

Nutrition Information:

YIELD: 6 SERVING SIZE: 1

Amount Per Serving:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh fruit.

Just be sure to chop it into small pieces and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

Can I substitute the Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream?

Yes, you can substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream.

Just make sure it’s well-whipped and folded gently into the mixture.

Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely. If you prefer, you can use walnuts, almonds, or pecans.

Just chop them into small pieces.

How long does the salad need to chill?

The salad should chill for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead of time.

Prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

What if I don’t like maraschino cherries?

If you prefer, you can omit the maraschino cherries and replace them with another fruit like blueberries or strawberries.

Is it possible to make this recipe lower in calories?

To reduce calories, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese and Cool Whip.

You can also cut down on the amount of sugar or use a sugar substitute.

Can I add other fruits to this salad?

Yes, feel free to add other fruits such as strawberries, peaches, or grapes.

Just make sure to adjust the quantities and drain any excess liquid.

What type of cream cheese should I use?

Use regular cream cheese for the best flavor and texture.

Make sure it’s softened before mixing to avoid lumps.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

The salad should be consumed within 3-4 days for the best taste and freshness.