Homemade jello is a fun and tasty treat that brings a bit of nostalgia to any gathering. This simple recipe uses real fruit and unflavored gelatin to create a dessert that’s free from gluten, dairy, eggs, and added sugar. Perfect for kids and adults alike, homemade jello is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger dish.
Making jello from scratch is easier than you might think. By using fresh or frozen fruit and a low-carb sweetener, you can control the ingredients and avoid the artificial flavors and colors found in store-bought versions. This homemade jello recipe combines strawberries and blueberries for a naturally sweet and vibrant dessert that’s sure to please.
One of the best things about homemade jello is its versatility. You can pour it into molds for fun shapes, layer it in a loaf pan for a classic presentation, or even use it as a base for other desserts. The process is straightforward, and the result is a delightful, wobbly treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Enjoying Homemade Jello
Homemade jello can be enjoyed in many delicious ways. As a standalone dessert, cut your jello into cubes and serve it chilled for a refreshing and satisfying treat. For a more indulgent option, top your jello with a dollop of dairy-free whipped cream, adding a creamy texture that perfectly complements the fruity jello.
Another fun way to enjoy jello is by layering cubes with dairy-free yogurt and granola to create colorful parfaits, making for a delightful breakfast or snack. Additionally, you can use your homemade jello as a topping for dairy-free ice cream or other desserts, adding a unique texture and fruity flavor to your favorite treats.
Creative Substitutions for Homemade Jello
This jello recipe is very flexible and can be adapted to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some substitution ideas:
1. Different Fruits: Feel free to substitute the strawberries and blueberries with other fruits. Mango, raspberries, or blackberries all make great alternatives. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness to your preference.
2. Sweeteners: You can play around with different kinds of sweeteners that are tailored to your needs.
3. Flavored Gelatin: While this recipe uses unflavored gelatin, you can experiment with flavored gelatin powders if you find them without added sugar. This can add an extra layer of flavor to your jello.
4. Juice Variations: Instead of using water to dissolve the gelatin, try using a fruit juice like apple or grape juice. This will enhance the fruity flavor and give your jello a more intense taste. Just understand that it will greatly increase the total sugar and carbs.
Tips for Making Perfect Jello
Making homemade jello can be simple with a few key tips. First, ensure that your gelatin is fully dissolved in the water before adding it to the fruit mixture. This prevents any grainy texture and ensures a smooth, uniform jello.
When straining the fruit mixture, be sure to press down to extract as much juice as possible. This helps to concentrate the flavor and color of your jello.
Lastly, patience is key. Allow the jello to set in the fridge for several hours or overnight to ensure it firms up properly. Cutting into the jello too soon can result in a soft, wobbly mess.
Two Unique Ideas for Serving Homemade Jello
Jello Shapes for Kids: Pour your jello mixture into fun-shaped molds before setting it in the fridge. Once firm, you can pop out the shapes and serve them as a playful treat for kids. They’ll love the colorful, wiggly pieces, and you’ll enjoy knowing they’re eating a healthier dessert.
Jello Layer Cake: For a more sophisticated dessert, layer different flavors of homemade jello in a clear glass dish. Each layer needs to set before adding the next, but the result is a stunning, multi-colored jello cake that’s sure to impress at any gathering.
Final Thoughts
Homemade jello is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that brings a bit of fun to any meal. With its natural fruit flavors and vibrant colors, it’s a treat that’s both tasty and visually appealing. Whether you’re making it for a family dessert or a party treat, this homemade jello recipe is sure to be a hit.
Homemade Jello
Ingredients
- 16 ounces frozen strawberries
- 6 ounces frozen blueberries
- 1 cup low carb granulated sweetener
- 1 cup water + additional as needed
- 4 tablespoons unflavored gelatin powder
Instructions
- Place the frozen blueberries and strawberries into a blender or food processor, and pulse until broken down into small pieces.
- Add the mixture to a saucepan over medium heat, and stir in the sugar substitute.
- Simmer until the mixture comes to a boil. Boil for 5 minutes, and remove from the heat.
- Pour the mixture carefully through a sieve and into a measuring cup.
- When all of the liquid has been drained from the berries, fill the measuring cup up the rest of the way to the 2 cup mark with water. Taste and add more sugar substitute if desired.
- In a bowl, stir together the 1 cup of water and gelatin powder.
- Pour the berry mixture into the gelatin mixture, and whisk to combine well.
- Layer the mixture into a loaf pan, and place into the fridge for several hours until completely set.
- Slice the Jello into cubes and serve.
