Coca-Cola Dream Salad
Experience a delightful blend of flavors with the Coca-Cola Dream Salad! This unique and refreshing salad features a tantalizing mix of cherry Jell-O, luscious fruit, and creamy cheese, all enhanced by the effervescent taste of Coca-Cola. Perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or as a sweet side dish to elevate your meal, this salad promises to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of tart cherries, juicy mandarin oranges, and sweet crushed pineapple culminates in a light and airy dessert that is not only eye-catching but full of flavor. Each serving is not just a treat for the taste buds but a colorful addition to your table. Prepare it ahead of time and let it chill to perfection, making it a convenient choice for any occasion!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cherry Jell-O
2 (3-ounce boxes)
Cream Cheese
1 (8-ounce package, softened)
Crushed Pineapple
1 (20-ounce can, drained (juice set aside))
Mandarin Oranges
1 (8-ounce can, drained (juice set aside))
Dark Pitted Cherries
1 (28-ounce can, drained (juice set aside))
Coca-Cola
12 (ounces)
Chopped Pecans
1 (cup)
Instructions
1
In a saucepan, combine the reserved juices from the crushed pineapple, mandarin oranges, and dark cherries. Bring to a boil.
2
Once boiling, dissolve the Cherry Jell-O mix in the hot juice, stirring continuously until fully dissolved.
3
Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly before adding the Coca-Cola. Stir gently to combine.
4
In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until creamy and smooth.
5
Gradually add the Jell-O mixture to the cream cheese, mixing until well combined.
6
Fold in the drained fruit and chopped pecans into the mixture until evenly distributed.
7
Pour the mixture into a mold or serving dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
8
Once set, serve chilled and enjoy this delightful Coca-Cola Dream Salad!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Coca-Cola Dream Salad?
It is a refreshing and unique Jell-O based salad featuring cherry flavors, mixed fruit, cream cheese, and the effervescent taste of Coca-Cola.
What flavor of Jell-O is used in this recipe?
The recipe requires two 3-ounce boxes of Cherry Jell-O.
How much Coca-Cola do I need?
You will need 12 ounces of Coca-Cola for this recipe.
What fruits are included in the Coca-Cola Dream Salad?
The salad includes crushed pineapple, mandarin oranges, and dark pitted cherries.
Do I need to save the juice from the canned fruits?
Yes, you should reserve the juices from the crushed pineapple, mandarin oranges, and dark cherries to boil and dissolve the Jell-O.
How much cream cheese is required?
The recipe calls for one 8-ounce package of softened cream cheese.
Are there nuts in this salad?
Yes, the recipe includes one cup of chopped pecans for added texture.
How long does the salad need to refrigerate?
The salad should be refrigerated for at least 4 hours or until it is fully set.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it is recommended to prepare it ahead of time to allow it to chill and set perfectly.
Is the Coca-Cola boiled with the juices?
No, the Coca-Cola is added to the mixture after the Jell-O has been dissolved in the boiling juice and the mixture has cooled slightly.
What is the first step in making Coca-Cola Dream Salad?
The first step is to combine the reserved juices from the fruit in a saucepan and bring them to a boil.
How do I incorporate the cream cheese into the Jell-O?
Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then gradually add the Jell-O mixture while mixing until well combined.
Should the fruit be added before or after the cream cheese?
The fruit and pecans should be folded in after the Jell-O mixture and cream cheese have been fully combined.
Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?
While pecans are traditional, you could substitute them with walnuts or omit them entirely for a nut-free version.
What size of cherries should I use?
The recipe specifies a 28-ounce can of dark pitted cherries.
Is this dish considered a side or a dessert?
It can be served as either a sweet side dish or a light dessert, making it very versatile for meals.
What type of pineapple is best for this recipe?
Crushed pineapple is used to provide an even distribution of fruit throughout the salad.
Can I use Diet Coke instead of regular Coca-Cola?
You can use Diet Coke, though the traditional flavor comes from regular Coca-Cola.
Do I need a specific mold for this salad?
You can use a decorative gelatin mold or a simple glass serving dish depending on your preference.
What is the texture of the Coca-Cola Dream Salad?
It is light, airy, and creamy with soft fruit pieces and crunchy pecans.
Should the fruit be drained before adding?
Yes, the fruit should be drained, but make sure to save the juice for the boiling step.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
While specific serving counts vary, it is a standard potluck-sized dish intended for a crowd.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned?
Canned cherries are preferred because the recipe relies on the reserved canning juice for the liquid base.
What makes the salad 'dreamy'?
The combination of the creamy beaten cheese and the carbonation from the soda creates a unique, airy mouthfeel.
Is this recipe suitable for potlucks?
Yes, it is an excellent choice for potlucks because it is eye-catching, serves many, and is easy to transport once set.
Can I substitute the Cherry Jell-O with another flavor?
Black Cherry or Strawberry Jell-O could work, but Cherry is the intended flavor for this specific salad.
How should leftovers be stored?
Leftovers should be kept covered in the refrigerator to maintain the salad's firm texture.
Is the cream cheese visible in the final salad?
If mixed well, the cream cheese creates a uniform creamy pink appearance, though some small flecks may remain.
What is the best way to serve this salad?
Serve it chilled directly from the refrigerator to ensure it stays firm and refreshing.
Why must the Jell-O mixture cool before adding the soda?
Cooling it slightly helps preserve the carbonation of the Coca-Cola, contributing to the salad's light texture.