2 c. apple cider or apple juice
1 (6 oz.) pkg. cherry flavored gelatin
1 (16 oz.) can pitted dark sweet cherries
1/2 c. thinly sliced celery
1/2 c. chopped walnuts
1 (3 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened
1 (8 1/2 oz.) can (1 c.) applesauce

Bring apple cider or juice to boiling. Dissolve gelatin in boiling cider. Drain cherries, reserving syrup. Halve cherries and set aside. Add enough water to reserved syrup to measure 1 1/2 cups. Stir into gelatin. Set aside 2 cups of the gelatin mixture; keep at room temperature.

Chill remaining gelatin until partially set. Fold cherries, celery and walnuts into partially set gelatin. Pour into 6 1/2 cup ring mold. Chill until almost firm.

Gradually add reserved gelatin to softened cream cheese, beating until smooth. Stir in applesauce. Spoon cream cheese mixture over cherry layer in mold. Chill until firm. Unmold on lettuce-lined platter. Serve with mayonnaise or salad dressing sprinkled with additional walnuts, if desired. Makes 10 to 12 servings.