How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

What ingredients do I need for Ugly Duckling Jello Salad?

You need 10 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1 (6 ounce) package lime Jell-O gelatin, 1 (4 ounce) package cream cheese, 1 (8 ounce) carton cottage cheese, 2 cups boiling water, and more.

Is Ugly Duckling Jello Salad suitable as salads?

Yes, Ugly Duckling Jello Salad falls under the Salads category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

How do I store leftover Ugly Duckling Jello Salad?

Keep refrigerated in an airtight container and enjoy within 1–2 days for the best freshness. Best served cold — no reheating needed.

Ugly Duckling Jello Salad Recipe

Name: Ugly Duckling Jello Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 (6 ounce) package lime Jell-O gelatin; 1 (4 ounce) package cream cheese; 1 (8 ounce) carton cottage cheese; 2 cups boiling water; 1 (12 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained (reserve liquid); 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans; 1/2 cup finely chopped celery; Icing; 1 (6 ounce) bottle maraschino cherries, diced (reserve juice); 1 (8 ounce) container sour cream

Fresh, crisp and full of flavor — this Ugly Duckling Jello Salad is a must-try. Made with cream cheese, cottage cheese, boiling water and pineapple. Eas…

This Ugly Duckling Jello Salad relies on simple, everyday ingredients such as boiling water, finely chopped pecans, finely chopped celery and icing. It comes together quickly and makes 4 servings, at about 1414 kcal each. The step-by-step instructions below are written to be easy to follow, even on a busy day.

It works as a light main on its own or as a starter alongside crusty bread, and it's just as good for a cozy night in as it is for feeding a crowd. Leftovers keep well, so it's a smart choice for meal prep too.

Updated Jun 30, 2026

Serves 4 Salads

1414

kcal

Calories

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Leave out the nuts to make it nut-free, or swap in seeds for a similar crunch.
Coconut cream is a reliable plant-based alternative to dairy cream.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

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Ugly Duckling Jello Salad

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

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