Cherry Pineapple Delight
This delightful Cherry Pineapple Delight is an absolute must for our family's holiday gatherings! A perfect blend of sweet cherry pie filling and tropical pineapple, this creamy and fluffy dish has earned its place as a holiday favorite. Whether served as a decadent dessert or a side dish, its vibrant color and luscious taste will make it the star of any table. It's incredibly simple to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy cooks who still want to impress their guests. Your loved ones will be clamoring for this recipe year after year!
10
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cherry Pie Filling
1 (21-ounce can)
Sweetened Condensed Milk
1 (14-ounce can)
Crushed Pineapple
1 (20-ounce can, drained)
Pecans
1 (cup, chopped (optional))
Mini Marshmallows
1 (cup (optional))
Frozen Whipped Topping
1 (12-ounce container, thawed)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry pie filling, sweetened condensed milk, and crushed pineapple. Stir until well blended.
2
If desired, add the chopped pecans and mini marshmallows to the mixture. Fold them in gently to distribute evenly.
3
Finally, incorporate the thawed whipped topping into the mix, ensuring all ingredients are combined without deflating the topping.
4
Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and the dish to chill.
5
Serve chilled and enjoy the delighted reactions from family and friends!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cherry Pineapple Delight?
Cherry Pineapple Delight is a creamy, fluffy dessert or side dish made with cherry pie filling, pineapple, sweetened condensed milk, and whipped topping.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to serve approximately 10 people.
What are the core ingredients required?
The main ingredients include cherry pie filling, sweetened condensed milk, crushed pineapple, and frozen whipped topping.
Do I need to drain the crushed pineapple?
Yes, it is important to use a 20-ounce can of crushed pineapple that has been well-drained to ensure the dish isn't too runny.
Are pecans necessary for this recipe?
No, pecans are an optional ingredient. You can include them for extra crunch or leave them out if you prefer.
Can I omit the marshmallows?
Yes, the mini marshmallows are optional and can be omitted without affecting the base of the recipe.
What size can of cherry pie filling should I use?
The recipe calls for one 21-ounce can of cherry pie filling.
How long does it take to prepare?
The preparation is very quick, involving only mixing and folding, though it requires at least 1 hour of chilling time.
Is there any cooking involved in this recipe?
No, this is a no-cook recipe that only requires combining ingredients and refrigeration.
What is the best way to combine the ingredients?
First combine the cherry filling, milk, and pineapple, then fold in any optional ingredients, and finally gently fold in the whipped topping.
How long should the dish be refrigerated before serving?
You should refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the dish to chill properly.
What type of whipped topping is recommended?
One 12-ounce container of frozen whipped topping, thawed, is recommended for this recipe.
Can this be served as a side dish?
Yes, while it is a dessert, it is frequently served as a sweet side dish, especially at holiday gatherings.
How should I store leftover Cherry Pineapple Delight?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
What size of sweetened condensed milk is needed?
The recipe requires one 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk.
Is this a good recipe for holidays?
Absolutely, it is described as a family holiday favorite due to its vibrant color and luscious taste.
Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Yes, if you choose to include nuts, walnuts would be a suitable substitute for pecans.
Why do I need to fold in the whipped topping gently?
Gently folding ensures that the whipped topping does not deflate, keeping the dish's texture light and fluffy.
What is the texture of this dish?
The texture is described as creamy, fluffy, and decadent.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, children often enjoy the sweet fruit flavors and the inclusion of mini marshmallows.
Can I make this dish a day in advance?
Yes, making it a day ahead allows even more time for the flavors to meld, though it is best served fresh within a day or two.
What kind of bowl should I use?
A large mixing bowl is best to accommodate all the ingredients and allow room for folding in the whipped topping.
Can I use evaporated milk instead of sweetened condensed milk?
No, sweetened condensed milk is essential for the sweetness and thick consistency of this specific recipe.
Can I add other fruits like mandarin oranges?
While the recipe focus is cherry and pineapple, you could add other canned fruits as long as they are well-drained.
Is it a heavy or light dessert?
It is a balance of both; it is creamy and decadent but has a fluffy, light texture from the whipped topping.
Does the whipped topping need to be frozen when added?
No, the whipped topping must be thawed before you fold it into the other ingredients.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The core ingredients (fruit, milk, topping) are generally gluten-free, but you should always check the labels on canned fillings and toppings to be certain.
Can I use fresh pineapple?
You can, but you must ensure it is very finely crushed and any excess juice is drained to mimic the canned version used in the recipe.
What category does this recipe fall under?
This recipe is officially categorized as a Dessert.
Should it be served at room temperature?
No, for the best taste and safety, Cherry Pineapple Delight should always be served chilled.