Weight Watchers Timeless Cherry Dessert Recipe

Weight Watchers Timeless Cherry Dessert Recipe

Introduction

Indulge in the vibrant sweetness of cherries with this Weight Watchers Timeless Cherry Dessert. Whether you’re craving a fruity, refreshing treat after a meal or looking for a healthy dessert option to share with family and friends, this cherry dessert is the perfect choice. With its rich, tangy flavor and simple, wholesome ingredients, this dessert is sure to become a favorite.

This recipe combines the natural sweetness of fresh or frozen cherries with a few simple pantry ingredients, creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also fits well within your Weight Watchers program. By controlling the amount of added sugar and using lighter options like reduced-fat whipped topping, this dessert is lower in SmartPoints without compromising on flavor or texture.

In this recipe, cherries are the star ingredient. Packed with antioxidants and nutrients, cherries offer health benefits such as supporting heart health, reducing inflammation, and promoting healthy sleep. Whether served as a light snack or a satisfying dessert, this cherry treat can be enjoyed by those looking to manage their weight while indulging in a delicious, guilt-free dessert.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

To prepare this simple yet decadent cherry dessert, gather the following ingredients:

• Fresh or Frozen Cherries (2 cups): Cherries are packed with antioxidants and provide natural sweetness. You can use fresh or frozen cherries, depending on availability.
• Sugar-Free Cherry Jell-O (1 box, 3 oz): This adds a burst of cherry flavor and helps the dessert set without extra sugar. The sugar-free variety keeps SmartPoints low.
• Boiling Water (1 cup): To dissolve the Jell-O mix and create a smooth texture.
• Cold Water (1 cup): To help set the gelatin and create the desired pudding-like consistency.
• Light Whipped Topping (1 cup): A lower-calorie, lower-fat alternative to regular whipped cream. This adds creaminess and helps to balance the tartness of the cherries.
• Stevia or Granulated Sugar (2 tablespoons): Optional, for added sweetness. Adjust according to your preference.
• Lemon Juice (1 teaspoon): A touch of acidity to enhance the cherry flavor.
• Vanilla Extract (1/2 teaspoon): A hint of vanilla adds depth to the dessert and enhances the cherry taste.
• Chopped Almonds or Walnuts (optional, 1/4 cup): For a bit of crunch and texture, though these will add extra SmartPoints.

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Gelatin Base

1. Dissolve the Jell-O mix: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the sugar-free cherry Jell-O mix with 1 cup of boiling water. Stir thoroughly until the Jell-O is completely dissolved, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This forms the base of the dessert and provides the jelly-like texture that will bind the cherries together.
2. Add cold water: Once the Jell-O has dissolved, add 1 cup of cold water to the mixture. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The cold water helps bring down the temperature and allows the gelatin to set properly once it’s refrigerated.
3. Sweeten the mixture: If you prefer a sweeter dessert, stir in 2 tablespoons of stevia or your preferred sweetener. Stevia is a great sugar substitute that won’t affect the SmartPoints, while keeping the dessert light and diabetic-friendly. If you prefer regular sugar, use sparingly to maintain the SmartPoints value.

Step 2: Prepare the Cherries

4. Prepare fresh or frozen cherries: If using fresh cherries, wash and pit them. For frozen cherries, thaw them out and drain any excess liquid. You can roughly chop them into bite-sized pieces to create a uniform texture throughout the dessert. The cherries should be sweet but slightly tart to balance the richness of the whipped topping.
5. Add lemon juice: Toss the cherries with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice to enhance their natural flavor and add a refreshing zing to the dessert. The lemon juice pairs beautifully with the cherry flavor and brightens up the overall taste of the dish.

Step 3: Combine and Chill

6. Combine the cherries and gelatin: Once the Jell-O mixture has cooled to room temperature, add the prepared cherries to the gelatin mixture. Stir carefully to ensure the cherries are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
7. Refrigerate to set: Pour the cherry gelatin mixture into a large serving dish or individual bowls. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, or until the dessert is fully set. The gelatin will solidify into a firm, pudding-like consistency, while the cherries remain suspended throughout.

Step 4: Add the Whipped Topping

8. Top with light whipped topping: Once the cherry gelatin has set, it’s time to add the light whipped topping. Spoon the whipped topping evenly over the surface of the cherry gelatin, creating a  creamy layer on top. You can use a spatula to smooth it out or make it a little fluffy by gently spreading it with a spoon.
9. Garnish (optional): For added texture and flavor, sprinkle chopped almonds or walnuts on top of the dessert. These provide a crunchy contrast to the soft gelatin and whipped topping. Be mindful that adding nuts will increase the SmartPoints value, so use sparingly if you want to keep the dessert lighter.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

10. Chill before serving: Once you’ve added the whipped topping, return the dessert to the refrigerator for an additional 30 minutes to allow the whipped topping to firm up and meld with the gelatin layer. This makes for a more cohesive dessert when serving.
11. Serve: Scoop into individual portions and serve chilled. The dessert is light, refreshing, and full of fruity cherry goodness. You can garnish with a few extra fresh cherries or a sprig of mint for an extra touch of elegance.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Serves 6)

Calories: 110 kcal
Total Fat: 3g

• Saturated Fat: 2g
  Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 16g (from natural cherries and sweetened Jell-O)
  Protein: 1g
  Cholesterol: 5mg
  Sodium: 50mg
  Potassium: 200mg
  Vitamin C: 12% DV
  Calcium: 4% DV
  Iron: 2% DV

SmartPoints Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Blue Plan: 4 SmartPoints
• Green Plan: 5 SmartPoints
• Purple Plan: 3 SmartPoints

Note: SmartPoints may vary depending on the type of sweetener you use or if you add optional garnishes like nuts. For those looking to lower the SmartPoints even further, use a sugar substitute like stevia and skip the nuts.

Helpful Tips and Variations

1. Sugar-Free Alternatives:
   If you’re trying to cut down on sugar, sugar-free cherry Jell-O and stevia or another sugar substitute will help keep the dessert within the desired SmartPoints range. By eliminating added sugar, you can enjoy the natural sweetness of the cherries and still have a guilt-free indulgence.
2. Using Frozen Cherries:
   Frozen cherries are a convenient option, especially during the off-season. Be sure to thaw and drain them properly to avoid excess moisture that could affect the texture of the dessert.
3. Dairy-Free Option:
   For a dairy-free version, swap the light whipped topping for a  coconut or almond-based whipped topping. These non-dairy options provide a similar texture and flavor without compromising the integrity of the dessert.
4. Nut-Free Version:
   If you prefer a nut-free dessert, simply skip the chopped nuts. The dessert is already delightful on its own, and the whipped topping provides a nice creamy contrast to the tart cherries.
5. Make Ahead:
   This dessert can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or preparing a dessert in advance for a party or special occasion.

Health Benefits of the Timeless Cherry Dessert

• Cherries:
  Cherries are a powerhouse of antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which are believed to reduce inflammation and support heart health. They are also a natural source of melatonin, which can promote better sleep.
• Low in Calories and Fat:
  This dessert is low in calories and fat, making it an excellent choice for anyone on a calorie-conscious diet like Weight Watchers. The use of light whipped topping further reduces the calorie and fat content compared to traditional whipped cream.
• Fiber-Rich:
  Cherries provide a small but significant amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a feeling of fullness after eating.
• Sugar-Free Options:
  By using sugar-free Jell-O and stevia