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Coca Cola Trifle Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 94 reviews

A refreshing and nostalgic dessert featuring layers of cherry-flavored gelatin, Coca Cola, pineapple, cherries, and walnuts, topped with a smooth cream cheese and whipped topping mixture. Perfect for gatherings and festive occasions, this Coca Cola Trifle combines fruity flavors with a creamy finish for a unique and delightful treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Gelatin Mixture

  • 2 cups reserved pineapple and cherry juices (made by combining 1 cup pineapple juice and 1 cup cherry juice, diluted with water if needed)
  • 6 ounces cherry flavored gelatin (two 3-ounce packages)
  • 8 ounces Coca Cola (preferably from a glass bottle)

Fruit and Nuts

  • 20 ounces crushed pineapple, drained but juice reserved
  • 15 ounces pitted dark sweet cherries in heavy syrup, drained but juice reserved
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts

Topping

  • 8 ounces thawed whipped topping
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • Maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Juice Base: Measure out 1 cup each of the reserved pineapple and cherry juices. If the combined juice is less than 2 cups, add water to reach 2 cups total.
  2. Heat Juices: In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, bring the juice mixture to a low boil, then remove from heat and pour into a heat-safe bowl.
  3. Dissolve Gelatin: Stir both packages of cherry gelatin into the hot juice mixture until completely dissolved.
  4. Add Coca Cola and Cool: Slowly stir in the 8 ounces of Coca Cola. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes until it becomes a thin syrup-like consistency.
  5. Combine Fruit and Nuts: Remove the plastic wrap and stir in the drained crushed pineapple, pitted cherries, and chopped walnuts. Mix gently to combine.
  6. Set the Trifle Base: Spoon the gelatin, fruit, and nut mixture into a 3-quart footed trifle bowl or an appropriate serving bowl. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until it is firmly set.
  7. Prepare Topping: Just before serving, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric hand mixer until completely smooth. Gradually fold in the thawed whipped topping and continue mixing until well combined.
  8. Assemble and Serve: Spoon the cream cheese and whipped topping mixture evenly over the set gelatin layer. Garnish with maraschino cherries. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

Notes

  • Make sure to drain the fruit well so excess juice does not dilute the gelatin mixture.
  • You can adjust the sweetness by choosing between regular or diet Coca Cola depending on dietary needs.
  • For a crunchier texture, lightly toast the chopped walnuts before adding.
  • This dessert needs at least 4 hours to set properly, so plan accordingly.
  • Keeps well covered in the refrigerator for 1-2 days but is best enjoyed fresh.

Keywords: coca cola trifle, cherry gelatin dessert, pineapple cherry dessert, creamy trifle, classic American dessert, holiday dessert

Find it online: https://dinewithlily.com/coca-cola-trifle-recipe/