Jello Dream Dish

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: American

A colorful, fruity dessert combining cherry or strawberry Jello with marshmallows, pineapple, and banana, perfect for a sweet, nostalgic treat suitable for all ages.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 pkg. Jello (cherry or strawberry)
  • 1/2 cup mini-marshmallows or 6 large marshmallows
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
  • 1 large banana

Instructions

  1. Make Jello using hot water, then add marshmallows and stir until melted.
  2. Add cold water to the mixture.
  3. Stir in crushed pineapple and sliced banana.
  4. Pour into a dish and refrigerate until set.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the flavor, consider using fresh fruit instead of canned pineapple or adding a splash of citrus juice. If you're looking to cut down on sugar, try using sugar-free Jello and low-calorie marshmallows. For a fun twist, mix in chopped nuts or shredded coconut. This dish can also be made with different flavors of Jello for a colorful variety, making it a fun addition to gatherings, similar to the Lo-Cal Cherry-Cola Salad.

Serving Suggestions

For an appealing presentation, serve the Jello Dream Dish in individual cups or bowls topped with whipped cream or additional fruit slices. It pairs beautifully with summer barbecues or picnics, making it a refreshing dessert option. Consider serving alongside savory dishes like grilled chicken or burgers, or with a light salad for a balanced meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The Jello may become slightly watery over time, but it will still taste great. Avoid freezing, as this can alter the texture. To enjoy it again, simply scoop out portions as needed, no reheating is necessary since it's served cold.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Jello Dream Dish contains roughly 287 calories, with 5g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (51% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

287 kcal 14% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.7g 9% DV
Total Fat 2.1g 3% DV
Carbs 63.1g 23% DV
Fiber 3.6g 13% DV
Sugar 25.4g 51% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 320.4mg 14% DV
Potassium 257.1mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 301.2mcg 33% DV
Vitamin C 16.4mg 18% DV
Vitamin D 2.2mcg 11% DV
Calcium 204.8mg 16% DV
Iron 9.2mg 51% 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 different flavors of Jello?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other flavors of Jello to create your own version of this dish. Strawberry, orange, or even blue raspberry can add a fun twist. Just keep in mind that the fruit combinations might also change, so adjust accordingly to maintain balance in flavors.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes, this Jello Dream Dish is a kid-friendly treat that is easy to make and fun to eat. The colorful appearance and sweet flavor are sure to appeal to children. Just make sure to supervise younger kids when slicing bananas or handling any sharp utensils.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make a vegan version, use plant-based marshmallows and ensure that the Jello is made without gelatin. There are several brands of vegan gelatin available that can be used as a substitute. This way, you can enjoy a delicious dessert that fits within vegan recipes while still being enjoyable for everyone.

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).

American recipes → Vegan recipes → Vegetarian recipes → All recipes →