Grandma'S Gelatin

Cook: 15 min Cuisine: American

Grandma's Gelatin is a colorful, fruity dessert with layers of citrus flavor, creamy pudding, and pineapple, perfect for family gatherings and summer parties.

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Ingredients

  • 1 pkg. (6 oz.) orange jello
  • 1 pkg. (4 3/4 oz.) vanilla pudding (not instant)
  • 2 pkg. (3 1/4 oz. each) tapioca pudding
  • 6 c. water
  • 1 can (16 oz.) crushed pineapple

Instructions

  1. Mix the orange jello, vanilla pudding, tapioca pudding, and water in a saucepan.
  2. Cook over medium heat until the mixture begins to thicken.
  3. Remove from heat.
  4. Add the crushed pineapple and its juice, stirring until well combined.
  5. Pour the mixture into a mold, 9 x 13-inch pan, or a bowl.
  6. Chill until set.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider using whole milk instead of water when cooking the puddings. If orange jello isn’t available, you can substitute with any other fruit-flavored gelatin for a different taste. Ensure that the tapioca pudding is thoroughly cooked; otherwise, it may not set properly. For extra flavor, add a splash of coconut milk or a sprinkle of shredded coconut when mixing in the pineapple.

Serving Suggestions

This gelatin dessert is perfect for summer gatherings or holiday celebrations. Serve it chilled on its own, or top with a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with Layered Puppy Chow Mix as a light snack option. Consider garnishing with fresh fruit or mint leaves for a vibrant presentation.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The gelatin will keep its shape, and you can slice or scoop servings as needed. To refresh the texture, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving, but avoid reheating in the microwave as it may affect the consistency.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Grandma'S Gelatin contains roughly 378 calories, with 2g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value).

378 kcal 19% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.8g 4% DV
Total Fat 1g 1% DV
Carbs 98.4g 36% DV
Fiber 1.9g 7% DV
Sugar 68.2g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 95.5mg 4% DV
Potassium 255.8mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 36.5mg 12% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 65.8mcg 7% DV
Vitamin C 11.4mg 13% DV
Calcium 63mg 5% DV
Iron 1.1mg 6% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 instant pudding instead of regular pudding for this recipe?

No, instant pudding won't work for this recipe as it requires cooking to thicken properly. Regular pudding mix allows for the right texture and consistency that complements the gelatin and tapioca.

How long does it take for the gelatin to set?

The gelatin typically takes about 4-6 hours to set in the refrigerator. For best results, make it a day in advance so you can ensure it's fully firm and ready to serve.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can modify this recipe to be vegan by using plant-based milk and ensuring the gelatin is a vegan-friendly alternative, like agar-agar. Check that the jello is vegan as well, as some brands contain animal products.

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).

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