Name: Coca Cola Trifle Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 20 ounces crushed pineapple, drained (juice reserved); 15 ounces pitted dark sweet cherries in heavy syrup (juice reserved); 6 ounces cherry flavored gelatin (two 3-ounce packages); 8 ounces Coca Cola (glass bottle recommended); 1 cup chopped walnuts; 8 ounces thawed whipped topping; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; Maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry (for garnish)

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Introduction

Coca Cola Trifle is a nostalgic, refreshing dessert that combines fruity gelatin with a unique twist of cola flavor. This layered treat features pineapple, cherries, and a creamy topping, making it perfect for gatherings or a special family dessert.

A clear glass trifle bowl on a tall stand holds a dessert with two main layers: the bottom is a dark red jelly filled with small fruit pieces giving it a textured look, and the top layer is thick, fluffy white whipped cream that covers the jelly almost to the edge. On top of the whipped cream is a cluster of bright red cherries, one with a short stem standing upright in the center. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, with bottles of dark soda blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

20 ounces crushed pineapple, drained but juice reserved
15 ounces pitted dark sweet cherries in heavy syrup, drained but juice reserved
6 ounces cherry flavored gelatin (two 3-ounce packages)
8 ounces Coca Cola (glass bottle recommended)
1 cup chopped walnuts
8 ounces thawed whipped topping
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
Maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry

Instructions

Step 1: Measure out 1 cup each of the reserved pineapple and cherry juices. If needed, add water to the juices to make a total of 2 cups of liquid.
Step 2: In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, bring the combined juices to a low boil. Remove from heat and pour the hot juice into a heat-safe bowl.
Step 3: Stir in both packages of cherry gelatin until fully dissolved.
Step 4: Slowly stir in the Coca Cola. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow it to reach a syrup-like consistency.
Step 5: Remove the plastic wrap, then fold in the crushed pineapple, cherries, and chopped walnuts until combined.
Step 6: Spoon the gelatin, fruit, and nut mixture into a 3-quart footed trifle bowl or any serving bowl. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until firmly set.
Step 7: Just before serving, beat the softened cream cheese in a medium bowl with an electric hand mixer until smooth. Add the whipped topping and mix until well combined.
Step 8: Spread the cream cheese topping over the set gelatin mixture and garnish with maraschino cherries. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

Tips & Variations

For added texture, substitute walnuts with pecans or omit nuts for a nut-free version.
Use fresh pineapple and cherries with added cherry juice if you prefer less syrupy fruit.
To enhance the cola flavor, chill the Coca Cola before mixing with the gelatin.
If you want a lighter topping, fold in some whipped cream instead of a full whipped topping.

Storage

Store the trifle covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The gelatin may absorb liquid over time, so it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days. Reheat is not recommended; serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a spoon holding a dessert with three layers: the bottom layer is chunky red and dark red berries with a juicy and soft texture, the middle layer is a fluffy white whipped cream, and the top layer is a shiny bright red cherry placed on one side. In the background, there is a blurred white marbled surface with a glass container filled with a similar red dessert and a bottle of soda with a red label. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use diet soda instead of regular Coca Cola?

Regular Coca Cola is preferred for its sugar content which helps the gelatin set properly and adds sweetness. Diet soda may alter the texture and firmness of the trifle.

Can I prepare this trifle a day in advance?

Yes, preparing the trifle a day ahead is ideal as it allows the gelatin to fully set and the flavors to meld. Just add the cream cheese topping and garnishes right before serving.