Cheese Fruit Mold
A colorful and tangy cheese fruit mold combining cream cheese, pineapple, and cheddar for a delightful appetizer perfect for gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour boiling water over the gelatin in a large bowl, add sugar, and stir until dissolved.
- Beat in the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Stir in the pineapple with syrup, shredded Cheddar cheese, creamed cottage cheese, and lemon juice.
- Pour the mixture into a 12-cup mold.
- Refrigerate until firm, about 8 hours.
- Unmold the mold onto salad greens and serve with Honey Dressing and crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with a milder cheese if desired. If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the sugar by half. Experiment with different flavored gelatin for a unique twist, while keeping the base ingredients consistent.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese fruit mold on a bed of fresh salad greens for a colorful presentation. It pairs beautifully with Honey Dressing and crackers for a delightful appetizer. Consider complementing with a light fruit salad or Pecan Fruit Cookies for a sweet contrast to this savory dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cheese fruit mold is best served chilled but can be left at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture of the cheeses.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Fruit Mold contains roughly 413 calories, with 8g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different flavor of gelatin?
Absolutely! You can experiment with various flavors of gelatin to customize the dish to your taste. For example, raspberry or strawberry flavors can add a fruity twist while still pairing nicely with the cheese and pineapple.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian as it does not contain meat. However, ensure that the gelatin used is plant-based, as some gelatins are derived from animal sources. Look for agar-agar as a great vegetarian substitute.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, the cheese fruit mold is perfect for making ahead of time. Prepare it a day or two in advance and keep it refrigerated until you're ready to serve. Just make sure it has firmed up completely before unmolding.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).