Name: Dr Pepper Jello Salad Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 4 h 40 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup water; 3 oz strawberry jello; 1¼ cup Dr Pepper; 10 oz maraschino cherries; 8 oz crushed pineapple; 1 cup pecans

This nostalgic dessert combines the unique flavor of Dr Pepper with sweet strawberry jello and festive maraschino cherries. It's a retro treat that's sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Photos of Dr Pepper Jello Salad Recipe

If you're planning on making this Dr Pepper jello salad, you might need to grab a few items from the supermarket. Maraschino cherries and crushed pineapple might not be staples in every pantry, and you'll also need a package of strawberry jello. Make sure to get a bottle of Dr Pepper as well.

Ingredients for Dr Pepper Jello Salad

water: Essential for dissolving the jello mix. Boiling it ensures the jello dissolves properly.

strawberry jello: Provides the base flavor and color for the salad. It pairs well with the Dr Pepper.

Dr Pepper: Adds a unique, fizzy twist to the traditional jello salad.

maraschino cherries: Adds a burst of sweetness and a pop of color.

crushed pineapple: Adds a tropical flavor and texture to the salad.

pecans: Adds a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor to balance the sweetness.

One reader, Freeman Mchenry says:

This Dr Pepper jello salad is a delightful twist on a classic! The fizzy Dr Pepper adds a unique flavor, and the combination of cherries, pineapple, and pecans creates a perfect balance of textures. It's a refreshing and fun dessert that's sure to impress at any gathering.

Freeman Mchenry

Techniques Required for Making Dr Pepper Jello Salad

How to dissolve jello: Bring water to a boil, add jello to a large bowl, pour boiling water over it, and stir until the jello mixture dissolves.

How to handle fizzing: When adding Dr Pepper to the jello mixture, do it in a large bowl over the sink to manage the fizzing.

How to grease a bundt pan: Use cooking spray to grease a nonstick bundt pan to ensure the jello salad can be easily removed.

How to chill jello: Place the jello mixture in the fridge to cool for 30 minutes initially, and then for at least 4 hours after adding the remaining ingredients.

How to loosen jello from a pan: Gently pull the jello away from the side of the pan with your fingers to help loosen it before flipping it out.

How To Make Dr Pepper Jello Salad

Whip up an easy jelly dessert with this Dr Pepper jello salad with pineapples, cherries, and chopped pecans. Prep it in 5 minutes!

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 5 minutes

Chill Time: 4 hours 30 minutes

Total: 4 hours 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cupwater
3ozstrawberry jello,2 boxes
1¼cupDr Pepper
10ozmaraschino cherries,1 jar, sliced, with juice
8ozcrushed pineapple,1 can, add juice
1cuppecans,chopped

Instructions

Bring water to a boil.
Add jello to a large bowl and pour boiling water over it, stir until jello mixture dissolves, and add in the Dr Pepper. The mixture will fizz up, so make sure to use a large bowl and do it over the sink just in case. Place in the fridge to cool for 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, grease a nonstick bundt pan with cooking spray.
Once the 30 minutes have passed, add the remaining ingredients to the jello mixture and then pour into the prepared pan. Let chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours.
If making in a bundt pan or another pan where the jello salad will need to be flipped out, gently pull the jello away from the side of the pan with your fingers to help loosen it before flipping.

Nutrition

Calories: 132.51kcal
Fat: 6.01g
Saturated Fat: 0.52g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.38g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.80g
Carbohydrates: 19.97g
Fiber: 1.82g
Sugar: 17.45g
Protein: 1.47g
Sodium: 34.96mg
Calcium: 21.92mg
Potassium: 60.27mg
Iron: 0.38mg
Vitamin A: 1.29µg
Vitamin C: 9.12mg

Helpful Technique for Perfecting Dr Pepper Jello Salad

To ensure your jello sets properly and has a smooth texture, make sure the boiling water completely dissolves the jello mixture before adding the dr pepper. Stir continuously until no granules remain. Additionally, when incorporating the maraschino cherries and crushed pineapple, make sure they are well-drained to prevent excess liquid from affecting the final set of the jello salad.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Jello Salad

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure out the water, Dr Pepper, and jello in advance to streamline the process.

Use pre-chopped nuts: Buy pecans that are already chopped to save time on prep.

Quick cooling: Place the jello mixture in a shallow dish to cool faster in the fridge.

Pre-grease the pan: Grease the bundt pan while the water is boiling to save a step later.

Drain fruits in advance: Drain the maraschino cherries and crushed pineapple before starting to avoid delays.

Substitute Ingredients For Dr Pepper Jello Salad Recipe

water - Substitute with apple juice: Adds a fruity flavor that complements the other ingredients.
strawberry jello - Substitute with raspberry jello: Provides a similar berry flavor and color.
dr pepper - Substitute with cherry cola: Maintains the soda element while adding a cherry flavor that pairs well with the other fruits.
maraschino cherries - Substitute with frozen cherries: Offers a more natural cherry flavor and less artificial sweetness.
crushed pineapple - Substitute with mandarin oranges: Adds a citrusy sweetness and a different texture.
pecans - Substitute with walnuts: Provides a similar crunch and nutty flavor.

Presentation Ideas for Dr Pepper Jello Salad

Use a crystal-clear glass mold: Present the Dr Pepper jello salad in an elegant, transparent glass mold to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the strawberry jello, maraschino cherries, and crushed pineapple.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves: Add a touch of sophistication by garnishing the top of the jello salad with fresh mint leaves. This not only adds a pop of green but also a refreshing aroma.
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream: Place a small, artfully piped dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side of each serving. This adds a creamy contrast to the fruity and fizzy jello.
Incorporate edible flowers: Decorate the plate with a few edible flowers, such as pansies or violets, to enhance the visual appeal and add a touch of elegance.
Use a pristine white plate: Serve the jello salad on a pristine white plate to make the colors of the jello and fruit pop, creating a visually striking presentation.
Add a drizzle of fruit coulis: Lightly drizzle a complementary fruit coulis, such as raspberry or strawberry, around the plate for an added layer of flavor and a sophisticated touch.
Highlight the pecans: Toast the pecans lightly and sprinkle them around the jello salad on the plate. This adds a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the dish.
Serve chilled: Ensure the jello salad is served well-chilled to maintain its structure and provide a refreshing experience for the diners.

Essential Tools for Making Jello Salad

Large bowl: To mix the jello with boiling water and Dr Pepper, ensuring there's enough space for the mixture to fizz up.
Saucepan: To bring the water to a boil.
Measuring cup: To measure the water, Dr Pepper, and other ingredients accurately.
Wooden spoon: To stir the jello mixture until it dissolves completely.
Refrigerator: To cool the jello mixture and allow it to set properly.
Nonstick bundt pan: To mold the jello salad into a decorative shape.
Cooking spray: To grease the bundt pan, ensuring the jello salad can be easily removed.
Can opener: To open the cans of maraschino cherries and crushed pineapple.
Strainer: To drain the maraschino cherries and crushed pineapple before adding them to the jello mixture.
Knife: To chop the pecans into smaller pieces.
Cutting board: To provide a surface for chopping the pecans.
Spatula: To help scrape the jello mixture into the bundt pan.
Fingers: To gently pull the jello away from the side of the pan before flipping it out.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Jello Salad

This jello salad can be stored in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 5 days.
If you want to freeze the jello salad, prepare it in a freezer-safe container, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top for expansion.
Cover the surface of the jello salad with a layer of plastic wrap, pressing it gently onto the surface to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Seal the container tightly with a lid and freeze for up to 2 months.
To thaw, transfer the frozen jello salad to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight.
Once thawed, give the jello salad a gentle stir to redistribute any separated ingredients and serve chilled.
Note: The texture of the jello salad may change slightly after freezing and thawing, becoming a bit softer and less firm, but the flavor should remain delicious.

Interesting Trivia About Dr Pepper Jello Salad

A unique aspect of this Dr Pepper jello salad recipe is the use of soda as an ingredient, which adds a fizzy twist and enhances the fruit flavors.

Is Making Jello Salad at Home Cost-Effective?

The Dr Pepper jello salad recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like strawberry jello, maraschino cherries, and crushed pineapple are relatively inexpensive. The use of pecans might slightly increase the cost, but overall, it's a budget-friendly dessert. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is Dr Pepper Jello Salad Healthy or Unhealthy?

The Dr Pepper Jello Salad recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

High sugar content: The recipe includes Jello, Dr Pepper, and maraschino cherries, all of which are high in added sugars. Consuming excessive amounts of added sugars can lead to weight gain, tooth decay, and an increased risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease.
Lack of nutritional value: Apart from the pecans, which provide some healthy fats and fiber, the recipe lacks substantial nutritional value. It is missing essential vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial nutrients that are important for overall health.
Processed ingredients: Many of the ingredients, such as Jello and maraschino cherries, are highly processed and contain artificial colors and flavors. These additives have been linked to various health concerns, including hyperactivity in children and allergic reactions.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of Jello and Dr Pepper used in the recipe, or replace them with healthier alternatives like unsweetened fruit juice or low-sugar gelatin.
Use fresh or frozen cherries instead of maraschino cherries to reduce the amount of added sugars and artificial ingredients.
Incorporate more nutrient-dense ingredients, such as fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries, to boost the vitamin and fiber content of the dish.
Experiment with using sugar substitutes like stevia or erythritol to sweeten the recipe without adding extra calories or carbohydrates.
Serve the Jello salad as a small side dish or dessert, rather than a main course, to control portion sizes and limit the overall intake of sugars and processed ingredients.

Editor's Opinion on Dr Pepper Jello Salad Recipe

This Dr Pepper jello salad recipe is a nostalgic twist on a classic dessert. The combination of strawberry jello and Dr Pepper adds a unique flavor profile, while the maraschino cherries and crushed pineapple provide a delightful sweetness and texture. The pecans introduce a satisfying crunch, making each bite interesting. However, the use of a bundt pan can be tricky; ensure it's well-greased to avoid sticking. Overall, it's a fun and quirky dish that could be a hit at potlucks or family gatherings, offering a playful blend of flavors and textures.

Enhance Your Dr Pepper Jello Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Caramelized Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts bring a delightful contrast to the sweet and fizzy Dr Pepper Jello Salad. The earthy, slightly bitter notes of the brussels sprouts are elevated by a touch of caramelization, creating a harmonious balance that will surprise and delight your taste buds.

Honey-Glazed Ham: Honey-Glazed Ham pairs wonderfully with the Dr Pepper Jello Salad, offering a savory and succulent counterpoint to the dessert's fruity and effervescent flavors. The ham's rich, smoky profile, enhanced by a sweet honey glaze, complements the maraschino cherries and crushed pineapple in the salad.

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup provides a warm and comforting starter that sets the stage for the refreshing Dr Pepper Jello Salad. The creamy, slightly sweet butternut squash soup, with its hints of nutmeg and cinnamon, creates a cozy prelude to the vibrant and playful dessert.

Maple-Glazed Carrots: Maple-Glazed Carrots add a touch of elegance and sweetness to your meal, perfectly complementing the Dr Pepper Jello Salad. The tender carrots, coated in a luscious maple glaze, offer a delightful textural contrast and a subtle sweetness that echoes the flavors of the strawberry jello and pecans.

Similar Recipes to Dr Pepper Jello Salad

Cherry Coke Salad: Dive into a nostalgic treat with this dessert that combines the fizzy delight of Cherry Coke with the sweetness of maraschino cherries and crushed pineapple. Perfect for a retro-themed party or a fun family gathering!

Orange Creamsicle Jello Salad: Transport yourself to a sunny day with this dessert that marries the tangy taste of orange jello with the creamy goodness of vanilla ice cream. A refreshing and delightful treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Lime Pineapple Jello Salad: Experience a burst of tropical flavors with this dessert that combines the zesty zing of lime jello with the sweet and juicy crushed pineapple. Add a handful of mini marshmallows for an extra layer of fun!

Cranberry Jello Salad: Perfect for the holiday season, this dessert features the tartness of cranberry jello balanced with the sweetness of crushed pineapple and a crunch of pecans. A festive addition to any holiday table!

Peach Jello Salad: Savor the taste of summer with this dessert that combines the luscious flavor of peach jello with the juicy goodness of sliced peaches. A delightful treat that’s both refreshing and satisfying!

Appetizers and Main Dishes to Complement Dr Pepper Jello Salad

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The breadcrumbs on top add a satisfying crunch, while the Parmesan cheese melts to create a golden, bubbly finish. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of flavor in every mouthful. Serve them warm to fully appreciate the creamy, cheesy filling against the earthy mushrooms.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that never fails to impress. Start with slices of toasted baguette, brushed with olive oil and rubbed with garlic. Top each slice with a mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The combination of the crispy bread, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic basil creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for any occasion, offering a refreshing and light start to your meal.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the zesty flavors of lemon with aromatic herbs. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a blend of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley. This marinade not only infuses the chicken with incredible flavor but also helps to keep it moist and tender. Once marinated, the chicken is grilled to perfection, creating a slightly charred exterior while maintaining a juicy interior. Serve this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal that is both healthy and satisfying.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful and nutritious main course that is sure to impress. The bell peppers are hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture of ground beef or turkey, rice, tomato sauce, and a blend of spices. The filling is cooked until the meat is browned and the flavors are well combined. Once stuffed, the peppers are baked in the oven until they are tender and the tops are slightly caramelized. This dish can be customized with various ingredients like black beans, corn, or cheese to suit your taste preferences. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple caesar salad for a well-rounded meal.

Why trust this Dr Pepper Jello Salad Recipe:

This Dr Pepper Jello Salad recipe combines the nostalgic flavors of strawberry jello and maraschino cherries with a modern twist of Dr Pepper. The addition of crushed pineapple and pecans adds texture and depth, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. The step-by-step instructions ensure a foolproof process, and the unique combination of ingredients promises a refreshing and flavorful experience. Trust this recipe for its balance of sweet and tangy flavors, and enjoy a dish that's both fun and delicious.

Have you tried this unique Dr Pepper Jello Salad Recipe? Let us know how it turned out or share your own twist on this classic in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use a different flavor of jello?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different flavors of jello to suit your taste. Cherry or raspberry jello could be great alternatives.

Do I have to use a bundt pan?

Nope, you don't have to use a bundt pan. Any mold or even a regular dish will work. Just make sure it's nonstick or greased well so the jello comes out easily.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Yes, you can use fresh cherries if you prefer. Just make sure to pit and chop them before adding them to the mixture.

How long does this jello salad last in the fridge?

It should last about 3-4 days in the fridge. Just keep it covered to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other fridge odors.

Can I skip the pecans if I have a nut allergy?

Definitely! You can leave out the pecans or substitute them with something else like chopped apples or even mini marshmallows for a different texture.