Every Thanksgiving my mother would make what she called "Coke Salad". This was I think black cherry jello, with canned bean cherries?, pecans, pinneapple bits and coke. I don't know if she substituted the water for coke or what. Somewhere in my beady mind I think I remember some knox gelatin but am not sure. Do you think you might know what I'm speaking of or how I could make it? I am asking you because she died March, 1997 and the secret went with her. Of all the cobblers, pies, etc. that she made we fought over the "Coke Salad".

Howdy! Chef Andy's delighted to present you with the recipe for "Cherry Cola Salad", which should be a reasonable fascimile of your mother's cooking. Thanks for writing, and have a great Thanksgiving!

Cherry Cola Salad 
A dark and creamy dessert, with the remarkable ability
to incorporate either Coca-Cola or port wine!

1 can (1 lb 1 oz) pitted dark sweet Bing cherries 
1 can (13 1/2 oz) crushed pineapple
1 cup chopped nuts
1 package (3 oz) each Jell-O Black Cherry and Strawberry Gelatins
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 cup Coca-Cola or port wine
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 cup boiling water

Blend cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.  Dissolve Jell-O
Gelatins in boiling water.  Stir into cheese mixture, blending
well.  Drain cherries and pineapple, measuring 1 1/2 cups syrup.
Then add syrup and cola or wine to gelatin.  Chill until very
thick.  Fold in cherries, pineapple, and nuts.
Pour into a 1 1/2 quart mold.  Chill until firm.  Unmold.
Makes about 6 1/2 cups, or 12 servings.

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