Description
This Cherry Confetti Fold is a creamy, dreamy no-bake dessert featuring bright cherry bursts and fluffy texture, made with cooked rice, whipped topping, pineapple, and cherry pie filling. It’s an effortless, make-ahead sweet treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white rice, chilled and separated (day-old works perfectly)
- 8 oz whipped topping, thawed from frozen (or fresh homemade whipped cream for richer flavor)
- 15 oz crushed pineapple, well-drained
- 21 oz cherry pie filling (or 2 cups pitted, halved fresh cherries macerated with 2 Tbsp sugar)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows, optional
- 0.25 cup granulated sugar, adjust to sweetness preference
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Ensure 2 cups (360g) cooked rice are completely cooled and separated. Thoroughly drain 15 oz (425g) crushed pineapple, pressing out excess liquid. If using fresh cherries, pit and halve them for easy folding.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently fold together 8 oz (225g) thawed whipped topping, drained pineapple, 21 oz (595g) cherry pie filling, 0.25 cup (50g) sugar, and 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract until just combined and smooth.
- Fold in Rice and Marshmallows: Add the cooled rice and 1 cup (50g) mini marshmallows. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold until everything is evenly distributed. (If mixture seems too thick, gently fold in an extra tablespoon of milk or a splash of cherry juice.)
- Chill to Perfection: Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld and the mixture to set firmly. For a creamier, more cohesive texture, chill 4 hours or overnight.
Notes
For best results, ensure rice is chilled and pineapple is well-drained. This recipe is flexible; use leftover or pre-cooked rice and canned fruit for convenience, or fresh cherries when in season. To speed up chilling, spread the mixture in a shallow 9×13 inch baking dish. Customize with a squeeze of lemon juice, reduced sugar (using unsweetened pineapple), or toasted coconut flakes. For dietary options, use certified gluten-free rice and a coconut cream or almond-based whipped topping alternative for a dairy-free version. You can also substitute cherries with other berries (strawberries, raspberries) or well-drained canned fruit cocktail.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 0.75 cup (about 180 g)
- Calories: 320 calories
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 75 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
Keywords: no-bake dessert, cherry, rice, easy, potluck, make-ahead, family-friendly, whipped topping, pineapple, marshmallows