Forktionary

Nana's Heavenly Hash Recipe

This nostalgic gelatin salad recipe, passed down since 1968, is a family favorite perfect for holiday gatherings! Our secret? Sharp cheddar cheese – it adds an unexpected and irresistible twist. This recipe makes a large, beautiful dessert, ideally served in a trifle bowl or a clear glass bowl to showcase its vibrant layers. Adjust sweetness by folding in sour cream with the Cool Whip (optional). Prepare to be amazed by this stunning and surprisingly delicious dessert!

Prep Time 60 mins
Cook Time 260 mins
Calories 234.3 kcal
Protein 9g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Nana's Heavenly Hash

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Nana's Heavenly Hash

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How to Make Nana's Heavenly Hash

  1. Toast 1 cup pecan halves in a dry, medium-hot iron skillet, stirring constantly, until fragrant (about 5-7 minutes). Watch carefully to prevent burning. Set aside to cool completely, then chop coarsely.
  2. Combine any saved fruit juices with enough water to measure 2 cups of liquid.
  3. In a saucepan, bring the fruit juice mixture to a boil. Remove from heat and whisk in 1 (3 ounce) package of unflavored gelatin until completely dissolved.
  4. Add 2 cups of cold water to the gelatin mixture and stir well. Refrigerate until the mixture begins to thicken but is still pourable (about 30-45 minutes).
  5. Gently fold in 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened; 1 cup miniature marshmallows; 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained; 1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries; 1/2 cup shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese; and 1 cup chopped pecans.
  6. In a separate bowl, gently fold 1/3 cup sour cream (optional) into 1 (8 ounce) container of Cool Whip. Then, gently fold the Cool Whip mixture into the jello-fruit mixture until evenly combined.
  7. Pour the mixture into a large, clear glass bowl or trifle bowl. This recipe makes a substantial amount!
  8. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the salad to fully set before serving.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

5 g

Sugar

87g

Fat

35g

Carbs

8g

Recipe Tags (Choose a tag and find related recipes!)

Course Main Ingredient Cuisine Preparation Occasion North American For Large Groups Gelatin Desserts Salads Fruit American Southern United States Easy Refrigerator Heirloom Historical Holiday Event Nuts Dietary Citrus Oranges Coconut Tropical Fruit Pineapple Equipment Number Of Servings Presentation Served Cold