Cola Congealed Salad
📜 Collection: General Archive | ✍️ Attribution: Unknown | 📂 Category: Desserts A classic, vintage-style congealed salad featuring cherries, pineapple, and pecans in a creamy, fizzy base of cherry and strawberry gelatin and cola. This retro dessert is a perfect, crowd-pleasing addition to any potluck table.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Inactive / Chill Time | Yield / Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 mins | 5 mins | 4-6 hours | 12-15 Servings |
🔪 Key Equipment
- saucepan
- large mixing bowl
- wire whisk or electric mixer
- 13x9x2 inch pan
Ingredients
| Measurements | Ingredients | Prep / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 large can (20 oz) | Bing Cherries | drained, juice reserved |
| 1 large can (20 oz) | Crushed Pineapple | drained, juice reserved |
| 1 package (3 oz) | Cherry gelatin | powdered |
| 1 package (3 oz) | Strawberry gelatin | powdered |
| 1 package (8 oz) | Cream Cheese | softened |
| 1 Cup | Pecans | chopped |
| 14-16 oz | Cola Drink | cold |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Drain the Bing Cherries and Crushed Pineapple, reserving the liquid. Add water to the reserved liquid to reach a total of 2 cups.
- In a saucepan, bring the 2 cups liquid to a rolling boil.
Step 2: Dissolve and Emulsify
- In a large bowl, combine the 1 package cherry gelatin and 1 package strawberry gelatin. Pour the boiling 2 cups liquid over the powders and stir for 2 minutes until completely dissolved.
- Add the 8 oz cream cheese to the hot mixture and beat with a whisk or electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then slowly stir in the 14-16 oz cola drink; the mixture will fizz.
- Gently fold in the drained Bing Cherries, Crushed Pineapple, and 1 cup pecans.
- Pour into a 13x9x2 inch pan and chill in the refrigerator for 4-6 hours until completely firm and set.
💡 Make-Ahead & Storage: This salad must be made at least 4-6 hours in advance to set properly; it can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Original Recipe Scan
