Cherry Jello Salad with Coca Cola

A cherry Coke Jell-O salad that was formed in a Jell-O bowl displayed on a beautiful white plate with leaves.

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Cherry Jello Salad with Coca Cola

This Cherry Coca-Cola Jello Salad is a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing treat that blends tart cherries, pineapple, pecans, and fizzy Coca-Cola.

Author: Nikki Lee

Servings: servings

Prep Time 10

Chill Time 4

Total Time 4 10

Equipment

Ingredients

▢ 1 package Jello (Cherry or Black Cherry) 6 ounce package
▢ 16 ounce can crushed pineapple drained, juice reserved, (2- 8-ounce cans)
▢ 15 ounce can pitted bing cherries
▢ 2 cups juices from pineapple and cherries (or water)
▢ 8 ounces Coca-Cola 1 cup
▢ ½ cup chopped pecans

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Instructions

Drain cherries and pineapple, reserving the liquid in a measuring cup. Set fruit aside and add enough water to measure 2 cups (likewise you can use all water to cut the sweetness a bit).
In a medium saucepan, bring the liquid to a boil. Remove from heat and add the gelatin, stirring to dissolve (about 2 minutes). Let it cool in the refrigerator for 30 - 40 minutes or until syrupy (you do not want it to fully set). The gelatine needs to become syrupy first before adding the cola, fruit, and nuts so they don’t all sink to the bottom.
Pour in the cola, pineapple, cherries, and nuts and stir until combined. Pour into a jello mold, 9 X 13 dish, trifle bowl, or individual containers. Cover and refrigerate until the gelatin is completely set, about 3 to 4 hours or overnight.
Garnish with stemmed cherries, mint, and whipped cream if desired.

Notes

Storage

To store, make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container before placing it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days and maintain its texture. If you’ve made it in a mold, you can leave it covered in the mold until you’re ready to serve.

Make Ahead: This is a perfect dish to make a day in advance. It makes for a great holiday or entertaining dessert, so it lightens the load the day of the event.

Avoid freezing this salad, as the gelatin and fruit will lose their texture and become watery once thawed. Keeping it chilled in the fridge ensures it stays firm and delicious!

TIPS:

Canned Pineapple works best in this recipe. Fresh pineapple has enzymes that break down the gelatin, preventing Jello from setting up properly.
Cool the Jello Properly: Make sure the gelatin cools until it’s syrupy before adding the soda, fruit, and nuts. If it’s too warm, the soda's carbonation will dissipate, and the fruit and nuts might sink to the bottom.
Use Different Molds: To create a more eye-catching presentation, try using a fun jello mold, a bundt pan, or even individual dessert bowls or cups (I love these footed ones). This also serves beautifully in a trifle dish. Just remember to lightly grease the mold for easy removal or dip the mold in warm water, and the jello will slide out easily.

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