Cherry Pie Filling Jello Dessert
A quick and tangy dessert featuring sweet cherry flavors, combining cherry jello and cherry pie filling for a refreshing treat. Perfect for summer gatherings or potlucks, this no-bake dessert offers vibrant color and fruity goodness that appeals to all ages and is easy to prepare ahead of time.
Ingredients
- 1 (3 oz.) pkg. cherry jello mix ⓘ
- 1 (21 oz.) can cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Dissolve the cherry jello mix in 1 cup boiling water and stir well.
- Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
- Once cooled, add the cherry pie filling and gently mix.
- Pour into a dish and refrigerate for about 2 hours until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of almond extract or vanilla to the mixture before refrigerating. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, use agar-agar instead of jello mix. To enhance the presentation, top the dessert with whipped cream or serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Remember, you can adjust the sweetness by choosing a no-sugar-added cherry pie filling.
Serving Suggestions
This cherry pie filling jello dessert is perfect as a light summer treat or as a festive addition to your holiday gatherings. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream and can be served alongside other desserts like the Orange Icebox Cake. Consider adding fresh cherries or mint leaves on top for a pop of color and freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To serve, simply scoop out the desired amount; there's no need to reheat this dessert, as it is best enjoyed chilled. If it begins to lose its shape, a quick stir can help reconstitute it slightly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Pie Filling Jello Dessert contains roughly 11 calories, with 0g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 0g 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 pie filling?
While fresh cherries can be used, they will require additional preparation, such as pitting and cooking them down with sugar to create a sauce similar to pie filling. This may alter the texture and flavor of your dessert, so consider sticking with the canned version for simplicity.
How long does this dessert take to set?
The dessert typically takes about 2 hours to set in the refrigerator. However, if you're in a hurry, you can place it in the freezer for about 30 minutes, checking regularly to ensure it doesn't freeze solid.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cherry pie filling jello dessert can be made a day in advance. Just store it covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. This makes it an excellent choice for parties or gatherings, like a summer picnic.
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).