Sparkling Mandarin Orange Cheesecake Dessert

Sparkling Mandarin Orange Cheesecake Dessert

1-1/2 C. boiling water

1 package (8-serving size) Sparkling Mandarin Orange flavor gelatin

2 C. cold ginger ale

1-1/2 C. graham cracker crumbs

1/2 C. butter or margarine, melted

1/2 C. sugar, divided

1 8 oz. package cream cheese, softened

1 tub (8 oz.) Cool Whip, thawed

2 C. assorted fruit, such as red and green grape halves, strawberry halves, blueberries, raspberries and mandarin oranges

Stir boiling water into gelatin in large bowl at least 2 minutes until completely dissolved. Stir in cold ginger ale. Refrigerate 1 hour and 15 minutes or until slightly thickened (consistency of unbeaten egg whites).

Mix crumbs, butter and 1/4 cup of the sugar in 13 x 9-inch baking dish. Press firmly onto bottom of dish. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Beat cream cheese and remaining 1/4 cup sugar in large bowl with wire whisk until smooth. Gently stir in whipped topping. Spread evenly over crust. Place fruit in rows over cream-cheese layer. Spoon thickened gelatin over fruit.

Refrigerate 3 hours or until firm. Store leftover dessert in refrigerator.