Cherry Pecan Jello
A delightful cherry pecan jello salad blending tart cherries, sweet pineapple, crunchy pecans, and a citrus-flavored gelatin base, perfect for gatherings and holiday spreads.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cherries (with water), crushed pineapple, and sugar together and bring to a boil.
- Pour the hot mixture over the cherry jello and stir until dissolved.
- Combine the orange juice, lemon juice, salt, and chopped pecans, then add to the jello mixture.
- Refrigerate overnight until set.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of almond extract for a nutty undertone. If fresh cherries are in season, feel free to substitute them for canned ones. For a lower-sugar version, use a sugar substitute that measures like sugar or reduce the sugar to taste. Make sure to mix the jello thoroughly to prevent lumps from forming.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cherry Pecan Jello as a refreshing dessert after a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or pork dishes. For a festive touch, garnish with whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted coconut. You can also serve it alongside a light salad, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cherry Pecan Jello in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. This dish holds its texture well, so there’s no need for reheating. Just serve chilled straight from the fridge. If you need to transport it, keep it in a cooler to maintain its setting.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Pecan Jello contains roughly 258 calories, with 3g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 frozen cherries instead of canned ones?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries! Just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the mixture. Keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different, but they will still work well in this recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe can easily be adapted for vegan diets by using a vegan gelatin substitute, like agar-agar, instead of traditional gelatin. Ensure that the jello mix is also vegan-friendly, or make your own fruit-flavored gel using fruit juice and the agar-agar.
How can I make this jello more visually appealing?
To enhance the presentation, consider layering the jello with additional fruits like mandarin oranges or blueberries. You can also serve it in individual cups for a more elegant look, and top each serving with a sprig of mint for a pop of color.
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).