Sawdust
A nostalgic layered dessert with fruity jellies, marshmallows, and a creamy topping, perfect for family gatherings and casual celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make the lemon and orange jello according to package instructions, using hot water to dissolve and then adding cold water.
- Pour the prepared jello into a dish and chill until set.
- Add the marshmallows to the jello and chill until they are partially melted and the mixture is slightly thickened.
- In a saucepan, cook the sugar, flour, and reserved pineapple juice over medium heat until thickened.
- Allow the cooked mixture to cool, then spread it evenly over the set jello layer.
- Top with Cool Whip, grated Cheddar cheese, and shredded coconut if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, chill the jello until fully set before adding marshmallows; this helps maintain a distinct layer. If you want to reduce sugar, consider using a sugar substitute for the jello and the cooked mixture. You can also experiment by swapping out the fruit with others like strawberries or peaches to suit your taste preferences, or include shredded coconut for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Sawdust dessert is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings. Serve it chilled in individual cups for easy sharing or alongside a slice of Aunt Beulah's Pecan Delight Pie for a delightful dessert spread. It pairs beautifully with a light fruit salad or a cup of coffee to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to keep the Cool Whip topping separate until ready to serve, as it may become watery over time. This dish does not freeze well due to the jello texture, so it's best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sawdust contains roughly 526 calories, with 19g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (56% of the Daily Value), iron (53% of the Daily Value), and calcium (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 718mg per serving (31% 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 use other flavors of jello in this recipe?
Absolutely! While lemon and orange jello are traditional, you can experiment with other flavors like raspberry or lime. Just be mindful that different flavors may alter the taste profile of the dish, so choose combinations that complement each other.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, to make this Sawdust dessert gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Also, ensure that the jello and other ingredients are certified gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy this treat without any gluten concerns.
What can I use instead of Cool Whip?
If you're looking for a homemade alternative to Cool Whip, you can whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This will create a fresh, creamy topping that pairs wonderfully with the jello. Alternatively, for a non-dairy option, consider using coconut whipped cream.
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).