Harvest Fruit Mold
A colorful, fruity gelatin mold featuring dried fruits and a sweet syrup, perfect for festive gatherings or a vibrant dessert option for fruit lovers.
Ingredients
- 11 oz. minced dried fruit ⓘ
- 1/3 cup sugar
Instructions
- Combine the minced dried fruit and enough water to cover in a saucepan. Simmer gently, covered, for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Add sugar during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Drain the fruit, reserving the syrup.
- Add water to the syrup to make 2 cups.
- Dissolve the gelatin in 2 cups of boiling water.
- Stir the dissolved gelatin into the syrup mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a mold and chill until partially set.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of apple juice to the syrup mixture. If you prefer a more natural sweetness, you can substitute honey or maple syrup for some of the sugar. Ensure the dried fruit is finely minced for a smoother texture. For a vegan version, use agar-agar instead of gelatin.
Serving Suggestions
This Harvest Fruit Mold makes a delightful dessert that pairs beautifully with poached pears. Serve it alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. It can also be a festive addition to a brunch spread, complementing savory dishes like French New Potato Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To serve, allow the mold to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before slicing, as this will make it easier to remove from the mold without breaking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Harvest Fruit Mold contains roughly 73 calories, with 2g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g 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 dried fruit?
Fresh fruit can be used, but it will require a different preparation method. You'll need to adjust the cooking time and possibly the amount of sugar since fresh fruit has a higher water content and can be less sweet.
What can I do if my mold doesn't set properly?
If the mold doesn't set, it may need more gelatin. Ensure that you've dissolved the gelatin completely in boiling water and that the syrup mixture is sufficiently chilled before pouring it into the mold.
How can I make this recipe more visually appealing?
To enhance presentation, consider layering different types of dried fruits or adding fresh fruit pieces before the mixture sets. You can also serve the mold on a decorative platter with mint leaves for a pop of color.
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).