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Crowd-Pleasing Cherries in the Snow Dessert Salad

cherries in the snow dessert salad - featured image

A quick and easy 10-minute dessert salad made with cream cheese, cherry pie filling, and mini marshmallows. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, and holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups frozen whipped topping, thawed
  • 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
  • 2 cups mini marshmallows
  • Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Instructions

  1. Soften the cream cheese by letting it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes or microwaving on low for 15-20 seconds.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides.
  3. With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Increase speed to medium and beat for another minute until light and creamy.
  4. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping using a rubber spatula with a cutting and folding motion until the mixture is fluffy.
  5. Fold in the mini marshmallows until evenly distributed.
  6. Add the entire can of cherry pie filling (do not drain). Gently fold 3-4 times to create streaks of red and white; do not overmix.
  7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor and texture.
  8. Before serving, give a gentle stir. Garnish with extra cherries, chopped nuts, or a dusting of cinnamon if desired.

Notes

For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and let it soften properly. Do not overmix the cherry pie filling to keep beautiful red streaks. The salad can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Do not freeze.

Nutrition

Keywords: cherry dessert salad, cherries in the snow, no-bake dessert, easy dessert, potluck dessert, cream cheese dessert