Cherry Cola Mold
A colorful and flavorful cherry cola mold combines sweet cherries, pineapple, nuts, and cola in a refreshing gelatin dessert perfect for parties or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Dissolve cherry and strawberry Jell-O gelatins in boiling water.
- Stir the gelatin mixture into the cream cheese and mayonnaise mixture, blending well.
- Drain cherries and pineapple, measuring 1 1/2 cups of syrup.
- Add the syrup and cola to the gelatin mixture.
- Chill until very thick.
- Fold in cherries, pineapple, and nuts.
- Pour into a 1 1/2-quart mold.
- Chill until firm.
- Unmold the gelatin mold before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before blending. You can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. If you prefer a different flavor, try using raspberry gelatin instead of cherry. To enhance the fruit's flavor, consider adding a splash of almond extract. If you have leftovers, use the syrup from the cherries or pineapple to moisten the mold when serving.
Serving Suggestions
This Cherry Cola Mold is a delightful addition to summer picnics or potlucks. Serve it chilled as a refreshing dessert alongside grilled meats or a light salad. It pairs beautifully with Sarah'S Pear-Pecan Salad for a balanced meal. Garnish with whipped cream or fresh mint for an extra touch. Consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, allow the gelatin to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the gelatin to break down. If the mold is too firm, you can gently remix it with a spoon before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Cola Mold contains roughly 298 calories, with 35g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (70% of the Daily Value). At about 298 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 prepare this mold in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Cherry Cola Mold up to 24 hours in advance. Just ensure it’s well covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. This makes it a perfect dessert for gatherings, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests. Just unmold it just before serving for the best presentation.
What can I use instead of cola?
If you're looking for an alternative to cola, consider using a lemon-lime soda or a cherry-flavored soda for a different twist. You can also use a caffeine-free option if preferred. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Can I add other fruits to the mold?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in additional fruits like sliced bananas or diced apples for added texture and flavor. Just ensure to adjust the syrup quantity accordingly if using fruits packed in juice. This flexibility allows you to customize the mold to your liking.
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).