Cherry Jello Supreme
A vibrant layered dessert combining fruity Jell-O, cherry pie filling, whipped cream, and crunchy walnuts, perfect for entertaining or a refreshing treat for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve raspberry Jell-O in 1 cup boiling water.
- Add cherry pie filling to the dissolved Jell-O.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 9-inch dish and refrigerate until partially set.
- Dissolve lemon Jell-O in 1 cup boiling water.
- Beat together salad dressing and cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add the lemon Jell-O to the cream mixture while beating.
- Stir in undrained pineapple.
- Fold in whipped cream and mini marshmallows.
- Carefully pour the lemon layer over the partially set cherry layer.
- Top with chopped walnuts and chill until fully set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before beating with the salad dressing. You can substitute the salad dressing with Greek yogurt for a healthier option. If you prefer a different fruit flavor, try using peach or pineapple Jell-O instead of raspberry. For a sweeter touch, add a splash of vanilla extract to the whipped cream.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cherry Jello Supreme chilled as a delightful dessert for gatherings or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with Ham Stack Appetizers for a balanced meal. Consider garnishing with additional whipped cream or fresh cherries on top for added flair. This dish also complements a light salad or fruit platter for a refreshing summer spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the layers intact, avoid stacking or pressing down the layers. This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so serve it straight from the fridge. Do not freeze, as it may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Jello Supreme contains roughly 474 calories, with 9g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 669mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
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 make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! Cherry Jello Supreme can be prepared a day in advance. Just ensure it's well-covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes it a convenient option for parties or family gatherings.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
Yes, you can use light or fat-free versions of Jell-O and salad dressing. Additionally, consider substituting whipped cream with a lower-calorie topping or using a sugar-free version of the mini marshmallows. This allows you to enjoy the dessert with fewer calories while still retaining its delicious flavor.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
While fresh cherries can add a delightful touch, you'll need to sweeten them to achieve the same flavor profile as cherry pie filling. Cook the fresh cherries with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to create a thick filling before adding it to the Jell-O. This will ensure the dessert maintains its intended taste and texture.
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).