Cherries Jubilee Fruit Salad
A vibrant fruit salad featuring cherries, pears, and a cherry gelatin base, topped with pecans and cream cheese for a sweet, elegant treat perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain cherries, reserving the syrup.
- Add water to the syrup to make 1 1/2 cups of liquid.
- In a medium saucepan, combine cherry flavored gelatin and the syrup mixture.
- Heat and stir until the gelatin dissolves completely.
- Remove from heat; stir in the cream sherry.
- Chill until the mixture is partially set.
- Reserve 2 pear halves for garnish; slice the remaining pears.
- Fold the chopped pears and cherries into the gelatin mixture.
- Chill until the salad is firm.
- Unmold the salad onto a serving dish; garnish with lettuce leaves and pear slices.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brandy instead of cream sherry. You can substitute the cherry flavored gelatin with raspberry or strawberry gelatin for a different twist. If fresh cherries are in season, feel free to use them instead of canned. Just be sure to pit and halve them. For added texture, fold in some mini marshmallows or shredded coconut for variation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cherries Jubilee Fruit Salad as a refreshing dessert or as part of a brunch spread. It pairs beautifully with Bite-Size Cheese Cakes or a light yogurt for a delightful balance. For an elegant presentation, serve it in individual cups or bowls, garnished with fresh mint leaves. This dessert also makes a lovely addition to a summer picnic or potluck.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will keep for up to three days. If the gelatin starts to separate, gently stir it before serving. Avoid freezing this salad, as it can change the texture of the fruit and gelatin. Always serve chilled for the best taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherries Jubilee Fruit Salad contains roughly 141 calories, with 2g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 14g fat.
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 fresh cherries instead of canned?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh cherries! Just make sure to pit and halve them before adding to the salad. Fresh cherries will provide a firmer texture and a more vibrant flavor, enhancing the overall dish.
How long should I chill the salad?
Chill the salad for at least 4 hours or until it is firm. If you're preparing it the night before, it can be left to set overnight in the refrigerator for optimal results.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or whipped cream cheese as a substitute for cream cheese. This will maintain the creamy texture but lighten the overall richness of the salad.
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).