Ingredients
2 envelopes unflavored gelatin1/4 cup cold water1/2 cup sugar1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, undrained2 tablespoons lemon juice1/4 cup maraschino cherry juice6 ounces cream cheese, softened12 maraschino cherries, quartered2 to 3 drops red food coloring, optional1 carton (12 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawedLettuce leaves, optional
Preparation
Soften gelatin in cold water. Meanwhile, in a saucepan, bring sugar and pineapple with juice to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from the heat. Add gelatin and stir until dissolved. Add lemon and cherry juices. Cool to lukewarm. Whisk in cream cheese until thoroughly combined. Stir in the cherries and food coloring if desired. Chill until slightly thickened. Fold in whipped topping. Pour into an oiled 13x9-in. pan or 8-1/2-cup mold; chill until firm. Serve the mold or individual squares on lettuce-lined plates if desired.
