Print

Coca Cola Trifle 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.

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Dissolve the Gelatin: Stir both packages of cherry gelatin into the hot juice until fully dissolved, ensuring a smooth mixture without lumps.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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