Heavenly Pineapple Mold
A refreshing pineapple Jell-O mold with a cheesy topping, perfect for summer gatherings or holiday parties, combining tangy fruit flavors with a savory cheese contrast.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the lemon Jell-O in 1 cup of boiling water.
- Add the pineapple juice and lemon juice to the dissolved Jell-O.
- Stir in the drained crushed pineapple.
- Chill the mixture until it thickens.
- Once thickened, fold in the shredded Cheddar cheese and whipped heavy cream.
- Pour the mixture into a mold and refrigerate until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cream cheese instead of heavy cream. You can also swap the crushed pineapple for diced fresh pineapple for added texture. Make sure to thoroughly drain the pineapple to avoid excess liquid in the mold. If you're looking for something more tropical, try adding coconut flakes or using coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
Serving Suggestions
This Heavenly Pineapple Mold is a fantastic side dish for summer barbecues and pairs beautifully with dishes like Cheese And Rice Casserole or grilled meats. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or as a light dessert. Garnish with a sprig of mint or some toasted coconut flakes for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The mold can lose its texture if frozen, so it's best to keep it chilled. When ready to serve leftovers, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Heavenly Pineapple Mold contains roughly 325 calories, with 4g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (21% 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 make this mold ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for making a day in advance. Just prepare the mold as instructed, refrigerate it, and it will set beautifully overnight. This also allows the flavors to meld, making it even more delicious when served.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a milder flavor, you can substitute the sharp Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or a creamy Havarti. For a twist, using a pepper jack can add a delightful kick to the mold.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is suitable for vegetarians as it does not contain any meat or fish products. Just ensure that the Jell-O used is gelatin-free if needed, as traditional Jell-O contains animal gelatin. There are vegetarian gelatin options available.
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).