Description
Junk Yard Salad is a wildly fun, no-bake dessert salad packed with fruit, fluffy whipped topping, mini marshmallows, and candy-coated chocolates. Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, birthdays, or anytime you need a sweet, nostalgic treat that brings a smile! Just mix, chill, and serve. This one’s a guaranteed crowd favorite!
Ingredients
1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip or whipped topping, thawed
2 cups mini marshmallows
½ cup red and green candy-coated chocolates (like M&M’s or Sixlets)
Optional:
½ cup chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts)
½ cup crushed candy bars (Snickers, Butterfinger, etc.)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry pie filling and drained pineapple chunks. Stir gently to mix.
Add the sweetened condensed milk and stir until fully blended and smooth.
Fold in the Cool Whip carefully to keep the mixture light and fluffy.
Gently fold in the mini marshmallows, candy-coated chocolates, and any optional mix-ins like nuts or crushed candy bars.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
Stir gently before serving, then scoop and enjoy!
Notes
Be sure to drain the pineapple well to prevent the salad from becoming too runny.
Want to make it your own? Try swapping in mandarin oranges, fruit cocktail, or diced peaches for a fruity twist.
For a fun color theme, use specific M&M colors for holidays or parties!
This salad tastes even better after a night in the fridge—great make-ahead option.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Not recommended for freezing, as the texture will change.