Pineapple Cheer
A sweet and creamy pineapple jello salad with marshmallows and pecans, perfect for festive gatherings or as a cool dessert for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the cherry jello in 1 cup hot water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and add the crushed pineapple and sugar.
- Combine this mixture with the dissolved jello and let cool.
- Add miniature marshmallows to the cooled mixture and let stand until it begins to jell.
- Stir in pecans, Cool Whip, and grated Cheddar cheese.
- Mix well and chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more tropical flavor, consider adding shredded coconut to the mix. If you prefer a lighter dessert, you can use sugar-free jello and a light whipped topping. Make sure the pineapple is well-drained to avoid excess liquid in your dish. Letting the mixture chill overnight enhances the flavors and the jelling process.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pineapple Cheer chilled as a refreshing side dish or dessert at barbecues and potlucks. It pairs beautifully with Fruit Ham Steak for a delightful meal. For added flair, garnish with extra pecans or a sprinkle of coconut before serving to enhance its visual appeal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dessert may continue to thicken as it sits. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the Cool Whip and marshmallows may change. Simply serve chilled without reheating for best results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple Cheer contains roughly 448 calories, with 16g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (40% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (38% of the Daily Value), and protein (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 534mg per serving (23% 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, fresh pineapple can be used, but ensure it's finely chopped and well-drained to avoid excess moisture. This will help maintain the desired texture of the dish.
Is it necessary to add cheese to the recipe?
The grated Cheddar cheese adds a unique flavor contrast, but it can be omitted if you prefer a sweeter dish. The recipe remains delicious without it.
How can I make this recipe more suitable for vegetarians?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure the jello used is labeled as vegetarian, as some gelatin products may not be. You can also explore other vegetarian recipes for inspired pairings.
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).