Fruit Cup Jelly
A tropical fruit cup jelly bursting with pineapple sweetness and bright citrus, perfect for summer parties or as a refreshing dessert topping. Its zesty lemon kick makes it a crowd‑pleaser.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the fruit mixture according to the package procedure on the Sure‑Jell box, mixing pineapple, pears, lemon juice, and grated lemon peel, then cook as directed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding chopped strawberries or blueberries to the fruit mixture. If you prefer a less sweet jelly, reduce the amount of pears or use a sugar substitute. Be sure to follow the Sure‑Jell instructions closely for the best texture. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, ensure your gelatin or pectin is plant-based.
Serving Suggestions
This fruit cup jelly makes a refreshing dessert on its own or can be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It pairs beautifully with Barbecued Pork Shoulder for a delightful contrast. For a light snack, serve it with Crisp As Ice Cucumber Slices for a refreshing bite.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fruit cup jelly in a sealed container in the refrigerator, where it can last up to two weeks. To reheat, place it in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, stirring gently. Avoid microwave reheating if you want to maintain the jelly's structure.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit Cup Jelly contains roughly 217 calories, with 3g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 7g 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 fruit instead of canned pineapple?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but ensure it's properly diced and drained to avoid excess moisture. Fresh fruit may change the texture slightly, so adjust the cooking time as needed.
How can I make this jelly less sweet?
To reduce sweetness, consider using fewer pears or a sugar substitute. You can also add a pinch of salt to balance the flavors, which enhances the natural sweetness of the fruit.
Is this jelly suitable for canning?
Yes, this fruit cup jelly can be canned. Make sure to follow proper canning techniques and use sterilized jars. Keep in mind that the shelf life will be longer, but always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.
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).