Introduction

Coca Cola Trifle is a refreshing and unique dessert that combines fruity gelatin with the fizzy sweetness of Coca Cola. This layered treat is perfect for gatherings and offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Step 1: Measure out 1 cup each of the reserved pineapple and cherry juices. If needed, add water to these 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 into a heat-safe bowl.
Step 3: Stir both packages of cherry gelatin into the hot juice until completely dissolved.
Step 4: Slowly stir in the Coca Cola. Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes until it reaches a thin syrup-like consistency.
Step 5: Remove the plastic wrap and gently stir 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 serving bowl. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until firmly set.
Step 7: Just before serving, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric hand mixer until smooth. Add the thawed whipped topping and continue mixing until well combined.
Step 8: Spread the cream cheese and whipped topping mixture over the set gelatin and garnish with maraschino cherries. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh nuts like pecans or almonds instead of walnuts for a different crunch.
For a lighter version, substitute regular whipped topping with a low-fat or homemade whipped cream.
Allow the gelatin mixture to cool properly before refrigerating to ensure a smooth set.

Storage

Store the trifle covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled until serving, and if needed, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before scooping.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use diet soda instead of regular Coca Cola?

Yes, you can use diet soda, but it may slightly alter the sweetness and texture of the trifle.

Can this dessert be made ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the trifle a day in advance and keep it refrigerated to allow flavors to meld and the gelatin to set properly.

Coca Cola Trifle Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 120 reviews

A refreshing and nostalgic Coca Cola trifle featuring layers of cherry-flavored gelatin mixed with pineapple, cherries, walnuts, and a creamy whipped topping, perfect for a delightful dessert that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.

Author: Isabella
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Gelatin Mixture

20 ounces crushed pineapple, drained (juice reserved)
15 ounces pitted dark sweet cherries in heavy syrup, drained (juice reserved)
6 ounces cherry flavored gelatin (two 3-ounce packages)
8 ounces Coca Cola (glass bottle recommended)
Juice from reserved pineapple and cherries, adjusted with water to total 2 cups
1 cup chopped walnuts

Topping

8 ounces thawed whipped topping
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
Maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Juice Base: Measure out 1 cup each of the reserved pineapple and cherry juices. If needed, add water to reach a total of 2 cups of liquid. This will be the liquid base for the gelatin.
Heat the Juices: In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, bring the juice mixture to a low boil. Once boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat and pour the hot juice into a heat-safe bowl.
Dissolve the Gelatin: Stir both packages of cherry gelatin into the hot juice until fully dissolved, ensuring a smooth mixture without lumps.
Add Coca Cola and Chill: Slowly stir in the Coca Cola to the gelatin mixture. Allow the liquid to cool for a few minutes, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes, so it thickens to a syrup-like consistency.
Combine Fruits and Nuts: Remove the plastic wrap and gently stir in the crushed pineapple, cherries, and chopped walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the gelatin mixture.
Set the Trifle: Spoon the gelatin, fruit, and nut mixture into a 3-quart footed trifle bowl or any large serving bowl. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until the gelatin is firmly set.
Prepare the Creamy Topping: Just before serving, use an electric hand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese in a medium bowl until completely smooth. Gradually add the thawed whipped topping and continue mixing until well combined and fluffy.
Assemble and Serve: Spoon the creamy topping evenly over the set gelatin mixture. Garnish the top with maraschino cherries. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

Notes

For best flavor, use glass-bottle Coca Cola.
Ensure the gelatin mixture is cooled and thickened before adding the fruit to prevent sinking.
Can be prepared a day ahead to allow ample time for setting and flavor melding.
Walnuts can be substituted with other nuts or omitted for a nut-free version.
Keep refrigerated after assembly and consume within 2 days for best freshness.

Keywords: Coca Cola trifle, cherry gelatin dessert, pineapple and cherry trifle, easy trifle recipe, nostalgic dessert, no bake dessert