Cherry Slush
A refreshing cherry slush with a vibrant flavor, combining the tartness of cherry and pineapple with a hint of almond. Perfect for hot days, parties, or casual gatherings, this chilled beverage offers a delightful, icy treat that can be customized with your favorite clear mixers for a fun, slushy experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring water and sugar to a boil in a saucepan.
- Add cherry jello to the boiling mixture and stir until completely dissolved.
- Remove from heat and stir in almond extract and pineapple juice.
- Add 1½ cans of water to the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a large container or punch bowl and freeze until solid, about 6 to 8 hours.
- Set out of the freezer before serving to allow it to soften slightly.
- Serve partially thawed or as a slushy in glasses, adding your choice of clear beverage.
- Enjoy this refreshing cherry slush!
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter slush, consider using flavored sparkling water instead of plain water when adding to the mixture. If you want a non-alcoholic twist, you can substitute the almond extract with a splash of vanilla extract. To elevate the flavor, add some fresh cherries or crushed pineapple just before serving. Make sure to freeze the mixture in a shallow container for quicker freezing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cherry slush in individual glasses, topped with a sprig of mint for a refreshing touch. It pairs beautifully with light summer dishes like 5-Bean Salad or can be a delightful dessert on its own. For a fun twist, you could serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cherry slush float.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator for about 1-2 hours before serving. You can also break it apart with a fork for a more slushy texture. If it gets too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Slush contains roughly 63 calories, with 1g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber.
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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, the cherry slush can be made up to a week in advance. Just ensure it is stored in an airtight container in the freezer. Before serving, allow it to soften slightly at room temperature, so it's easier to scoop or pour.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
Absolutely! You can reduce the sugar content by using a sugar substitute or a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup. Additionally, using fresh or frozen cherries instead of jello can provide a more natural flavor and reduce artificial ingredients.
What other flavors can I use instead of cherry?
You can easily swap out the cherry jello for other flavors like raspberry, strawberry, or even tropical options like mango or orange. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change, but the refreshing slush concept will remain delicious!
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).