This Mandarin Cherry Eggnog Ring is a show-stopping holiday dessert that combines the bright citrus notes of mandarin oranges with the rich, spiced flavor of eggnog. The vibrant red cherry layer contrasts beautifully with the pale, creamy eggnog layer, creating a visually stunning centerpiece for any winter gathering. While traditional eggnog contains dairy and eggs, this recipe can be adapted with non-dairy alternatives for a vegan-friendly option that still delivers on indulgence. The texture is smooth and jiggly, offering a refreshing yet comforting bite. Its perfect for Christmas dinner, New Years parties, or any festive occasion where you want to impress guests with a classic, elegant dessert that tastes as good as it looks.
Mandarin Cherry Eggnog Ring
Description
This Mandarin Cherry Eggnog Ring is a show-stopping holiday dessert that combines the bright citrus notes of mandarin oranges with the rich, spiced flavor of eggnog. The vibrant red cherry layer contrasts beautifully with the pale, creamy eggnog layer, creating a visually stunning centerpiece for any winter gathering. While traditional eggnog contains dairy and eggs, this recipe can be adapted with non-dairy alternatives for a vegan-friendly option that still delivers on indulgence. The texture is smooth and jiggly, offering a refreshing yet comforting bite. Its perfect for Christmas dinner, New Years parties, or any festive occasion where you want to impress guests with a classic, elegant dessert that tastes as good as it looks.Ingredients
Directions
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Drain the mandarin orange segments and set aside.
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In a medium bowl, dissolve the cherry gelatin powder in 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved.
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Stir in 3/4 cup of cold water.
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Refrigerate the cherry mixture for about 30 minutes, or until it is slightly thickened but still pourable.
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Gently fold the mandarin orange segments and halved green grapes into the thickened cherry gelatin.
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Spoon the fruit mixture into a 6-cup gelatin mold, filling it about halfway.
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Refrigerate the mold until the cherry layer is set but not firm; the surface should feel slightly sticky to the touch.
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Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, dissolve the lemon gelatin powder in 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved.
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Let the lemon gelatin cool for a few minutes, then stir in the eggnog and dark rum (if using).
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Refrigerate the eggnog mixture for about 15-20 minutes, or until it is slightly thickened but still liquid.
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Carefully pour the eggnog layer over the set cherry layer in the mold.
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Refrigerate until the eggnog layer is completely set, about 2-3 hours.
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Just before serving, prepare the whipped topping according to package directions.
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Run a knife around the edge of the mold and invert onto a serving plate.
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Top with the prepared whipped topping and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 10
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 188.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.4g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 0.0mg0%
- Total Carbohydrate 48.0g16%
- Dietary Fiber 9.6g39%
- Sugars 36.0g
- Protein 3.6g8%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For a vegan version, use a plant-based eggnog substitute and ensure the whipped topping mix is dairy-free.
If you do not have a gelatin mold, you can layer this in individual glasses for a parfait-style presentation.
The rum is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor; omit for a non-alcoholic version.
Make sure the first layer is set but still slightly sticky before adding the second layer to ensure good adhesion.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
