Fruit Gelatin
A vibrant fruit gelatin dessert combining orange flavor with pineapple, bananas, and marshmallows, perfect for a refreshing and colorful treat suitable for gatherings and family desserts.
Ingredients
- 1 large package orange jello ⓘ
- 2 cups hot water ⓘ
- 2 cups cold water ⓘ
- 1 (No. 2) can crushed pineapple, drained ⓘ
- 2 bananas, sliced ⓘ
- 2 cups miniature marshmallows ⓘ
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 3/4 cup sugar ⓘ
- 1 egg, beaten ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons flour ⓘ
- 1 ounce package cream cheese ⓘ
- 1 package whipped topping (Dream Whip) ⓘ
Instructions
- Dissolve the orange jello in hot water.
- Add cold water and allow the mixture to thicken.
- Drain the crushed pineapple and save the juice.
- Add the drained pineapple, sliced bananas, and miniature marshmallows to the gelatin mixture.
- Pour into a 9 x 13-inch pan and congeal until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant flavor, consider using fresh pineapple instead of canned, and adjust the sugar to taste depending on your fruit's sweetness. If you prefer a firmer texture, allow the gelatin to set in the refrigerator for longer. You can also substitute the bananas with strawberries or peaches for different variations. Incorporating a touch of lemon juice can enhance the overall flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This fruit gelatin makes a delightful dessert on its own or can be served with a dollop of whipped topping for extra creaminess. It pairs beautifully with Grammy'S Cornbread Muffins for a festive meal. For a fun twist, consider layering it in parfait glasses with yogurt for a colorful breakfast option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the gelatin from becoming too watery, avoid storing it at room temperature. When serving leftovers, you can enjoy them cold straight from the fridge, or let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes for a softer texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit Gelatin contains roughly 914 calories, with 17g protein, 192g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (115% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (97% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (71% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 761mg per serving (33% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This fruit gelatin can be made a day in advance. Just ensure it is covered well to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the refrigerator. Setting it overnight will also enhance the flavors as the ingredients meld together.
What can I use instead of marshmallows?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can substitute miniature marshmallows with chopped nuts or shredded coconut for added texture. Alternatively, using sugar-free marshmallows can help reduce the overall sugar content without sacrificing taste.
Is it possible to make this gelatin without jello?
Yes, you can create a similar dessert using agar-agar or gelatin sheets as a base. Simply follow the package instructions to replace the jello with these alternatives, adjusting the sweetness and fruit flavors as desired for a homemade version.
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).