Jerry's Jello Mold

8 servings Prep: 15 m Cook: PT0M Total: 1 h 30 m Beginner
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Jerry's Jello Mold
A festive orange jello mold studded with marshmallows, crushed pineapple, and cream cheese, then lightened with whipped topping for a fluffy, sweet retro dessert that’s perfect for potlucks and holidays. This vintage molded salad is a crowd-pleasing make-ahead treat.

Ingredients

8 servings
  • 1 large box orange jello
  • 1 (16 oz) bag miniature marshmallows
  • 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple
  • 1 (8 oz) package Philadelphia Cream Cheese, softened
  • 1 envelope Dream Whip Topping Mix
  • 1 cup cold water
  • 2 cups hot water

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Dissolve jello in the hot water.
  2. Add softened cream cheese, marshmallows and pineapple. Stir to partially dissolve the marshmallows.
  3. Add 1 cup cold water and refrigerate for 1 hour or until jello mixture is just softly jelled.
  4. In a separate container, prepare Dream Whip per instructions.
  5. Mix soft jello and Dream Whip together with hand mixer. Pour into mold and chill until set, about 2-3 hours.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my jello mold separating or not holding together?

A: Make sure the jello mixture is softly set (not fully firm) before mixing in the Dream Whip. If it's too liquid, the layers will separate; if it's too firm, it won't incorporate smoothly. Aim for the consistency of soft-set pudding.

Q: Can I unmold this easily?

A: To unmold, dip the bottom of the mold in warm (not hot) water for about 10-15 seconds, then place a serving plate on top and quickly invert. The jello should release cleanly. If it doesn't, dip again briefly.

Tips and Techniques

For best results, make sure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before adding to the hot jello—this helps it incorporate smoothly without lumps. You can also use a hand mixer to blend the cream cheese into the jello mixture for an extra-smooth texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Dream Whip Topping Mix: Cool Whip (8 oz container, thawed)
  • orange jello: strawberry, lime, or cherry jello
  • crushed pineapple: mandarin oranges, drained and chopped

Equipment Needed

  • mixing bowl
  • hand mixer
  • jello mold or 9x13 dish
  • refrigerator

Historical Context

Molded jello salads became hugely popular in the American South during the 1950s and 1960s when gelatin became widely available and refrigerators became standard in homes. These sweet “salads” were often served alongside the main course at dinner parties and remain a nostalgic favorite at potlucks.