Congealed Cherry Salad
Congealed Cherry Salad is a vibrant, sweet and tangy dessert featuring layers of cherry-flavored gelatin topped with a creamy pecan and pineapple mixture. Its refreshing taste makes it perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or any celebration that calls for a colorful, crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the gelatin, boiling water, and juice from the crushed pineapple.
- Stir slowly until blended.
- Add the can of pie cherries and half of the crushed pineapple.
- Stir slowly until blended. Pour into a 9 x 12 inch Pyrex dish and let set in the refrigerator.
- In a separate bowl, mix softened cream cheese with sour cream until smooth.
- Add sugar and blend well.
- Fold in chopped pecans and the remaining crushed pineapple.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on top of the set gelatin.
- Refrigerate until firm before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding a splash of cherry juice or a bit of lemon juice to the mixture. If you prefer a lighter texture, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. You can also substitute walnuts for pecans if desired. Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for easy blending, which is essential for a smooth topping. This dish can be made a day ahead for convenience.
Serving Suggestions
This Congealed Cherry Salad is a delightful addition to any potluck or holiday gathering. It pairs beautifully with savory dishes like fried chicken or holiday ham. For an elegant touch, serve it alongside a fresh salad or as a refreshing dessert after a rich meal. Garnish with additional pecans or mint for an attractive presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The cream layer may separate slightly, but a gentle stir before serving will help restore its appearance. It’s best served chilled, so avoid reheating; enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Congealed Cherry Salad contains roughly 189 calories, with 5g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (19% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value), and protein (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g 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 a different flavor of jello for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with other flavors of gelatin, such as raspberry or strawberry, for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that the fruit additions may alter the overall flavor profile, so choose a flavor that complements cherries well.
How can I make this salad healthier?
To make a healthier version, consider using sugar-free jello and reducing the amount of sugar in the cream topping. You can also increase the amount of fresh fruit, like diced apples or berries, to add natural sweetness and more fiber.
Can I make this salad vegan?
To create a vegan version, replace the gelatin with agar-agar or a similar plant-based gelling agent. Substitute the sour cream and cream cheese with vegan alternatives, such as cashew cream or coconut yogurt, to maintain the creamy texture while keeping it dairy-free.
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).