Autumn Applesauce
A cool, fruity dessert with pineapple, apples, and nuts, combined with creamy cheese and sweet jello, perfect for autumn gatherings and light, refreshing treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine crushed pineapple (undrained) and sugar.
- Bring to a boil and cook for 3 minutes.
- Add lemon jello to the mixture.
- Stir until the jello is completely dissolved.
- Add cream cheese and stir until fully melted and smooth.
- Allow the mixture to cool.
- Fold in diced unpeeled apples, chopped nuts, and whipped topping.
- Pour the mixture into a 9-inch square pan.
- Chill until firm.
- Cut into squares and serve on lettuce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, you can blend the mixture before folding in the apples and nuts. If you want a lower sugar option, consider using a sugar substitute or reducing the sugar amount to taste. You can also substitute the chopped nuts with seeds for a nut-free alternative. To enhance flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Autumn Applesauce cut into squares on a bed of lettuce for a lovely presentation. It pairs beautifully with Maple Sugar Cakes for a delightful dessert spread. This dish can also be enjoyed as a refreshing side at holiday gatherings or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If the applesauce becomes too thick after chilling, you can stir in a little pineapple juice or water to reach your desired consistency. This dish is best served cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Autumn Applesauce contains roughly 244 calories, with 5g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but be sure to finely chop it and include some of the juice to maintain the right consistency. Canned pineapple is more convenient, but fresh offers a brighter flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as the jello packet you use is certified gluten-free. Always check labels to ensure the products meet your dietary needs.
How long does it take for the mixture to chill?
The mixture typically takes about 2-4 hours to chill and firm up in the refrigerator. For best results, allow it to chill overnight if time permits.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).