Cherry Layered Salad is a nostalgic American dessert salad that combines the zesty tang of lemon Jell-O and cream cheese with the sweetness of cherry pie filling. Popular during the mid-20th century, this gelatin-based treat became a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday dinners. The dessert layers bright, citrusy lemon gelatin and creamy filling beneath a jewel-toned cherry topping, creating a visually appealing and refreshing dish. Its balance of tart and sweet flavors, combined with a soft, mousse-like texture, makes it a beloved comfort food reminiscent of simpler times and classic Southern hospitality.
Ingredients
- 3 oz lemon Jell-O (sugar-free optional)
- 3 oz cream cheese (fat-free optional)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 tsp lemon peel (optional)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 21 oz cherry pie filling (light optional)
- ½ cup boiling water
- 1 pkg unflavored gelatin
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- 1 cup Cool Whip (for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Lemon Jell-O Base
- In a mixing bowl, pour 1 cup boiling water over lemon Jell-O.
- Stir until completely dissolved.
Step 2: Add Lemon and Cream Cheese
- Add lemon juice, lemon peel, and cream cheese to the Jell-O.
- Stir or whisk until the cream cheese is smoothly blended.
Step 3: Chill Base Layer
- Pour mixture into a serving dish or glass bowl.
- Refrigerate 1½–2 hours until partially set.
Step 4: Prepare Cherry Layer
- In a separate bowl, pour ½ cup boiling water over unflavored gelatin.
- Stir until dissolved. Add cherry pie filling and cinnamon; mix well.
Step 5: Assemble the Layers
- Pour the cherry mixture over the set lemon Jell-O layer.
- Refrigerate another 1½–2 hours or until fully set.
Step 6: Finish with Topping
- Spread Cool Whip evenly over the top before serving.
- Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
Tips
- Use fat-free or regular cream cheese as written on the card, depending on preference
- Optional lemon peel adds brighter citrus flavor—omit for a milder taste
- Let the first lemon gelatin layer fully set before adding the cherry layer to keep layers distinct
- Light cherry pie filling works fine as noted on the card
- Add a thicker Cool Whip layer for a more “fluffy salad” texture
- Can be made a day ahead, making it great for holidays or potlucks
- Serve in a clear glass dish to show the defined layers
- Try substituting strawberry pie filling for a different fruit variation
- For a firmer top layer, chill the cherry layer slightly before pouring over the lemon layer
Nutrition
Calories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 3gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.4gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.6gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 160mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 28gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 0.3mg
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