Autumn Fruit Pears And Grapes
A vibrant, fruity dessert featuring layers of lemon jello, fresh pears, grapes, and a creamy cheese topping, perfect for autumn gatherings and fruit lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften one package of lemon jello in 1/2 cup water.
- Heat 1 1/2 cups water to boiling; add the jello along with 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
- Stir until dissolved.
- Chill until it molds over a spoon.
- Fold in the grapes and diced pears.
- Turn into a mold and chill until firm.
- Soften the other package of jello with 1/2 cup apricot nectar.
- Add 1 1/2 cups boiling apricot nectar and stir until dissolved.
- Stir in salt and remaining lemon juice.
- Chill until thickened.
- Beat the mixture with a rotary beater until fluffy.
- Add the softened cream cheese and blend until smooth.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the fruit layer in the mold.
- Chill until the top layer is firm.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using fresh lemon zest in addition to the lemon juice. If you prefer a lighter dessert, substitute low-fat cream cheese for the regular version. For a unique twist, try using different seasonal fruits like apples or berries. Ensure the jello is well-chilled before folding in the fruit to maintain its texture.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect as a light dessert after a meal. It pairs beautifully with Creamy Pumpkin Tapioca for a festive autumn spread. Consider serving it alongside a simple salad for a refreshing contrast. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an added touch of elegance.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the texture of the dessert. Serve cold for the best taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Autumn Fruit Pears And Grapes contains roughly 79 calories, with 1g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 896mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
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 other types of fruit in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruits such as diced apples or berries. Just ensure that the fruits you choose complement the flavors of lemon and apricot nectar.
How long should I chill the dessert before serving?
For the best results, chill each layer for at least 2 hours, or until firm. This will ensure the layers set properly and maintain their shape when served.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, this dessert can be made a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator, and it will be ready to serve when you need it. This makes it a convenient choice for gatherings.
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).