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My trusty Junk Yard Salad has bailed me out countless times when unexpected gatherings pop up. I grabbed this gem from my grandma's old recipe box, and it's now my fallback dessert option. The smooth, creamy texture combined with tangy cherries and sweet pineapple makes an incredible taste combo. Everyone teases me about the funny name, but they still come asking for another helping.
An Effortless Sweet Delight
The best thing about this treat is how fast it all comes together. When the house gets filled with my children's buddies or we suddenly need to bring something somewhere, I can throw this together super quick. There's something magical in how the juicy cherries, smooth pudding, and squishy marshmallows blend into perfection.
Ingredients List
- Cherry Pie Filling: One 21 oz can, ready-made for simplicity with plump cherries swimming in sweet syrup.
- Crushed Pineapple: Single can, make sure to drain it well so your dessert isn't watery.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: 1 cup, thick and sugary creating a luscious foundation. Eagle Brand works great.
- Mini Marshmallows: 2 cups, providing a bouncy, soft bite throughout.
- Instant Vanilla Pudding (Dry): Small package, follow the milk measurements on the box.
- Cool Whip: Full container, defrosted, for that airy, light consistency.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Blend The Base
- Find your largest mixing bowl and dump in those cherries, pineapple, condensed milk, marshmallows and pudding mix.
- Incorporate The Topping
- Carefully mix in the Cool Whip until everything looks smooth and well-combined.
- Chill It Down
- Stick it in your refrigerator for several hours, or better yet, leave it overnight.
- Dig In
- Dish it up cold, and if you want to get fancy, sprinkle some crushed nuts over the top.
Helpful Tricks
I often switch to sugar free options when my sugar-conscious aunt visits. Tastes just as wonderful. Letting it sit overnight really works wonders for the flavor. And if you don't want something too sweet, just leave out the condensed milk – the fruit brings plenty of natural sweetness.
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Crowd Favorite
This dessert vanishes in minutes whenever I take it anywhere. The fruity-creamy mix just hits the spot for most folks. It works perfectly for casual hangouts or big summer celebrations – nobody ever turns down a serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I tone down the sweetness?
Cut back on condensed milk or swap a portion for plain whipped cream. Unsweetened pineapple works too.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
Sure, just chill it in the fridge—it tastes better after a few hours. You can even make it a day early.
- → What other fruits can I use?
Try swapping cherry pie filling with blueberry or throwing in some mandarin orange slices for something new.
- → How long will it last?
Keep it covered and cool for up to 3 days. The marshmallows will soften, but it stays tasty.
- → Can fresh whipped cream replace Cool Whip?
Definitely! Homemade works, though it might feel just a bit different texture-wise.