Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Sparkling Cherry Gelatin Cups are not only easy to make but also a fun and festive way to enjoy gelatin. The combination of the sweet cherry flavor and the effervescence from the sparkling water makes this dessert a unique twist on a classic favorite. Plus, it’s a great way to cool off and enjoy something light and refreshing. The optional whipped cream and mint garnish add a touch of elegance to the dessert, making it perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 package (3 oz) cherry-flavored gelatin mix
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup cold sparkling water
- Fresh cherries (for garnish) or maraschino cherries
- Whipped cream (for topping, optional)
- Mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
Directions
1. Prepare the Gelatin Mixture
- Begin by boiling 1 cup of water. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, remove it from the heat.
- In a heatproof bowl, combine the boiling water with the cherry-flavored gelatin mix. Stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
2. Add Sparkling Water
- Allow the gelatin mixture to cool slightly, then slowly pour in 1 cup of cold sparkling water. Stir gently to combine, but be careful not to over-stir and lose the fizzy effect.
3. Pour into Cups
- Choose your serving cups or molds. Glass cups work well to showcase the vibrant color of the gelatin.
- Carefully pour the gelatin mixture into each cup, filling them about three-quarters full to leave room for toppings.
4. Chill the Gelatin
- Place the cups in the refrigerator and allow the gelatin to set for at least 4 hours, or until it is firm to the touch.
5. Decorate and Serve
- Once the gelatin has set, remove the cups from the refrigerator.
- Garnish each cup with a cherry on top. Add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprig of mint if desired.
6. Enjoy
- Serve the Sparkling Cherry Gelatin Cups chilled. Enjoy the light, bubbly texture and refreshing cherry flavor!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Chill time: 4 hours
- Total time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover gelatin cups in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They should stay firm and bubbly when kept chilled. Avoid freezing, as the gelatin may lose its texture.
FAQs
Can I use other flavors of gelatin?
Yes! While cherry-flavored gelatin is the star of this recipe, you can use other fruity flavors like strawberry, raspberry, or even lemon for a different twist. Just make sure to pair the flavor with the sparkling water for a similar refreshing effect.
Can I use diet or sugar-free gelatin?
Absolutely! You can substitute sugar-free gelatin to make this dessert lighter. The preparation process remains the same.
Can I use still water instead of sparkling water?
For the best bubbly texture, it’s recommended to use sparkling water. However, if you don’t have sparkling water, you can use regular still water. It will still taste delicious but without the fizzy texture.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! These gelatin cups can be made up to 2 days in advance. Simply store them in the refrigerator, covered, until you’re ready to serve.
Can I add fruit to the gelatin cups?
Yes, adding fresh fruit to the gelatin cups is a great idea! Chopped cherries, strawberries, or even pineapple chunks would be a delicious addition.
How can I make the gelatin more solid?
If you prefer a firmer gelatin texture, you can reduce the amount of sparkling water or slightly increase the gelatin mix (using just a little more than the recommended amount). However, be careful not to add too much, as it could make the gelatin too firm and less enjoyable.
Conclusion
These Sparkling Cherry Gelatin Cups are a fun, easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of cherry-flavored gelatin and sparkling water creates a refreshing and effervescent treat, while the whipped cream and mint add a touch of elegance. Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a light dessert on a warm day, these gelatin cups are sure to be a hit!
Sparkling Cherry Gelatin Cups
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: undefined
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Refrigeration
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sparkling Cherry Gelatin Cups are a light, refreshing dessert made with cherry-flavored gelatin and sparkling water, topped with whipped cream, cherries, and mint for an elegant touch.
Ingredients
1 package (3 oz) cherry-flavored gelatin mix
1 cup boiling water
1 cup cold sparkling water
Fresh cherries (for garnish) or maraschino cherries
Whipped cream (for topping, optional)
Mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Boil 1 cup of water. In a heatproof bowl, dissolve the cherry-flavored gelatin mix in the boiling water. Stir until fully dissolved.
- Allow the gelatin mixture to cool slightly, then pour in 1 cup of cold sparkling water. Stir gently to combine.
- Pour the gelatin mixture into cups or molds, filling them three-quarters full.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until firm to the touch.
- Once set, garnish each cup with a cherry, whipped cream, and mint leaves, if desired.
- Serve chilled and enjoy the bubbly, refreshing texture!
Notes
You can use different fruity gelatin flavors like strawberry, raspberry, or lemon.
Diet or sugar-free gelatin can be used for a lighter version of this treat.
If you don’t have sparkling water, regular still water can be used, but it won’t have the bubbly effect.
For added fun, fresh fruit like chopped cherries, strawberries, or pineapple can be added to the gelatin.
To make the gelatin firmer, reduce the sparkling water or increase the gelatin slightly, but avoid using too much to prevent an overly firm texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 gelatin cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
