Fruit Cocktail Parfait Pie
A delightful fruit cocktail parfait pie combines sweet fruit, creamy ice cream, and a refreshing gelatin layer, perfect for summer gatherings or a light dessert option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the fruit cocktail, reserving the syrup.
- Add enough water to the syrup to make 1 cup, then heat to boiling.
- Add lemon-flavored gelatin to the boiling mixture and dissolve completely.
- Stir in 1/2 cup cold water.
- Cut the vanilla ice cream into 6 pieces and add to the hot mixture.
- Stir until the ice cream is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Chill the mixture until it thickens, about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Fold in the drained fruit cocktail.
- Pour the mixture into a vanilla-flavored crust.
- Chill until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding a splash of citrus juice, like orange or lime, to the gelatin mixture. If you’re out of lemon-flavored gelatin, any other fruit-flavored gelatin can work as a substitute. For a creamier texture, try using whipped topping instead of ice cream, or incorporate some yogurt for tanginess. This recipe can also be made lighter by using low-fat ice cream or a non-dairy alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the parfait pie into wedges and serve it with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of whipped cream for added sweetness. It pairs beautifully with a refreshing fruit salad or a scoop of sorbet for a light dessert. Consider serving alongside a slice of Blueberry-Lemon Loaf Cake for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover parfait pie in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to three days. Avoid freezing, as the texture may become grainy when thawed. Serve chilled directly from the fridge for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit Cocktail Parfait Pie contains roughly 138 calories, with 3g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (17% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g 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
What type of crust works best for this pie?
A pre-made vanilla wafer or graham cracker crust works wonderfully for this parfait pie, as it complements the flavors well. If you prefer a homemade crust, a simple crushed cookie crust made from vanilla cookies or even a shortbread crust can add a nice touch.
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).