For some families, it’s a holiday tradition, but this classic dessert is a great option for any occasion.
This Jell-O fruit salad recipe isn’t exactly reinventing the wheel. This dish has been around for generations, reaching its peak popularity in the 1960s and ’70s. For many families, it’s their go-to make-ahead dessert for certain holidays. Others like to make it for picnics and potlucks. The simple truth is that this delightful dessert is appropriate for any occasion—including random weekends when you’re craving a fresh and fruity treat. And this easy recipe walks you through every step to yummy results!
For me, it’s amazing how adding fruit to gelatin completely changes the taste and texture of the dish. It doesn’t have that same rubbery texture that Jell-O sometimes has on its own. The fruit gives it a softer texture, not to mention the visual joy of seeing fruit pieces suspended in the gelatin! Plus, you get both the taste and texture of every piece of fruit in the salad.
One thing I love about this recipe is that it incorporates a wide variety of tastes and textures. You might not think apples, bananas, blueberries, and cranberries would go together. But when you mix them into vibrantly colored gelatin, they transform into something truly magical.
Tips for a tasty tailored treat
Despite its name, Jell-O fruit salad doesn’t have to be made entirely of gelatin and fruit. If you want your salad a little creamier, add a little bit of cream cheese or cottage cheese. If you want a sweeter treat, consider scattering some small marshmallows in the salad. If you like a crunchy salad, consider stirring in some chopped celery, apples, or watermelon. Finely shredded cabbage or carrots would also add delightful texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Jell-O fruit salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days—though you’ll get the best texture if you enjoy it within 3 days. I recommend against freezing this dish, as the gelatin will separate, the fruit will get mushy, and the fresh, bright flavors will become dull.
Serving suggestions
Dress up your Jell-O fruit salad by topping it with this Strawberry Whipped Cream Recipe or homemade Chocolate Whipped Cream. If you want something to drink with your fruit salad, I suggest a Healthy Milkshake.
Ingredients
- 1 medium apple
- 1 medium banana
- 3/4 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 6-ounce package strawberry-flavored gelatin
- 40 ounces crushed pineapple with juice
- 1 16-ounce container sliced strawberries in sugar frozen or refrigerated product, slightly drained
- 1 can whole cranberry sauce (14 ounces)
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- Whipped cream optional, for topping
- Chopped walnuts or pecans optional, for topping
Instructions
- Peel and grate the apple and chop the banana. Toss them with lemon juice in a bowl.
- In a large bowl, pour 2 cups boiling water over the strawberry gelatin and stir until all the crystals dissolve.
- Add to the gelatin the crushed pineapple with its juice, the sweetened strawberries, and the cranberry sauce. Stir in the blueberries and fruit mixture from step one until everything is evenly combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch dish. Chill for a minimum of 4 hours or until it is set.
- Garnish with whipped cream and chopped walnuts or pecans if desired. Serve cold.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
it looks good 😊
Thanks Jo-Ann! Merry Christmas 🎄🎄🎄