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–+ servings
Cherry Layered Salad
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.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Refrigeration Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 25 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10
Calories 210 kcal

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
Keyword cherry dessert, family recipe, layered salad, lemon gelatin, potluck dessert, retro recipe, vintage dessert
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