Summer Supper Dessert
A light, fruity summer dessert featuring layered gelatin, bananas, marshmallows, and whipped topping, perfect for hot evenings and gatherings with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs ⓘ
- 1/4 cup sugar ⓘ
- 1/4 cup margarine or butter, melted
- 8 serving size packages or 2 packages of 4 servings each of red flavor gelatin
- 2 cups boiling water ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cups cold water ⓘ
- 16 oz. package marshmallows ⓘ
- 1 cup milk ⓘ
- 3 medium bananas, sliced ⓘ
- 1 3/4 cups frozen nondairy whipped topping, thawed ⓘ
Instructions
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted margarine or butter in a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form a crust.
- Refrigerate the crust until chilled.
- Dissolve gelatin in boiling water in a large bowl, stirring until completely dissolved.
- Stir in cold water and refrigerate until slightly thickened.
- Melt marshmallows in milk over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth. Remove from heat and cool completely.
- Arrange sliced bananas in a single layer over the crust.
- Stir whipped topping into the marshmallow mixture.
- Swirl the marshmallow mixture slightly into the gelatin to marbelize.
- Pour the marshmallow and gelatin mixture over the bananas in the pan.
- Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until firm.
- Cut into squares to serve.
- Garnish with additional whipped topping if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a gluten-free version, substitute gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the crust. If you prefer a lighter dessert, consider using a low-sugar gelatin option. Make sure to allow the marshmallow mixture to cool completely before combining it with the gelatin to avoid melting. For added texture, you can fold in some chopped nuts or coconut flakes into the whipped topping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful dessert chilled, garnished with additional whipped topping for an extra treat. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries, making it a perfect summer gathering dish. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside Joanna'S Peanut Butter Pie for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture, it's best not to freeze this dessert, as the whipped topping may separate when thawed. Simply cut into squares and serve chilled directly from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Summer Supper Dessert contains roughly 291 calories, with 3g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (11% of the Daily Value) and iron (10% 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 a different flavor of gelatin?
Yes, you can easily substitute with any flavor of gelatin that you prefer. However, keep in mind that the flavor and color of the dessert will change accordingly. Popular choices include orange or lime for a refreshing twist.
What can I use instead of marshmallows?
If you want to avoid marshmallows, consider using a marshmallow fluff or a whipped cream cheese mixture as a substitute. This will provide a similar creamy texture while adding a unique flavor to the dessert.
How can I make this dessert ahead of time?
This dessert is perfect for making ahead! Prepare the crust and filling a day in advance and refrigerate. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge. It will firm up beautifully and be ready to serve for your gathering.
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).