Creamy Lemon Pineapple Mold
A refreshing and creamy gelatin mold combining tangy lemon, sweet pineapple, and cherries, perfect for summer gatherings or special occasions with a delightful fruity flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, pour boiling water over the lemon Jell-O and stir until the gelatin dissolves.
- Gradually beat the hot Jell-O into the softened cream cheese until the mixture is smooth and the cream cheese melts.
- Mix in the crushed pineapple, reserved pineapple juice, whipping cream, and chopped maraschino cherries.
- Pour the mixture into an 8-cup mold lightly brushed with salad oil.
- Chill until the mold is firm.
Tips & Substitutions
To make this recipe lighter, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese and a sugar-free lemon Jell-O. You can also substitute diced fresh fruits like strawberries or blueberries for the maraschino cherries. If you're short on time, use whipped topping instead of homemade whipping cream, but be sure to fold it in gently to maintain the airy texture.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy lemon pineapple mold makes a refreshing dessert for summer gatherings or potlucks. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream on top and a sprinkle of fresh mint for an elegant touch. It pairs beautifully with the light flavors of a salad or as a sweet ending to a barbecue meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. The mold can last up to 3 days. For best results, serve it chilled directly from the fridge, as reheating is not recommended due to the gelatin's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Lemon Pineapple Mold contains roughly 207 calories, with 4g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (18% 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 use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but be sure to crush it finely and drain any excess juice. Keep in mind that fresh pineapple contains enzymes that may affect the gelatin's ability to set. To avoid this, use canned pineapple or cook the fresh pineapple briefly to deactivate the enzymes.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
This mold can be prepared a day in advance. After pouring the mixture into the mold, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Just ensure it has enough time to set completely, ideally overnight, before serving to achieve the best texture.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly. However, if you'd like to make it vegan, you can substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and use a vegan whipping cream. Make sure the Jell-O is also a suitable gelatin substitute, like agar-agar.
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).