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Jell-O Fruit Salad Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 65 reviews

This Jell-O Fruit Salad is a refreshing and colorful dessert featuring a sweet strawberry gelatin base loaded with a medley of fresh and canned fruits. It combines the tartness of cranberries and pineapple with the sweetness of bananas, apples, and berries, all set into a delightful gelatin mold topped optionally with whipped cream and nuts for a perfect finish. Ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or a light summer treat, this recipe is quick to prepare and sure to please all ages.

Ingredients

Scale

Fruit

  • 1 medium apple
  • 1 medium banana
  • 3/4 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 40 ounces crushed pineapple (with juice)
  • 1 16-ounce container sliced strawberries in sugar (frozen or refrigerated, slightly drained)
  • 1 can whole cranberry sauce (14 ounces)
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries

Gelatin Mixture

  • 2 cups boiling water
  • 1 6-ounce package strawberry-flavored gelatin

Optional Toppings

  • Whipped cream (for topping)
  • Chopped walnuts or pecans (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Prepare fruit: Peel and grate the apple, then chop the banana. Toss both pieces with lemon juice in a bowl to prevent browning and add brightness to the flavor.
  2. Dissolve gelatin: In a large bowl, pour 2 cups of boiling water over the strawberry-flavored gelatin powder. Stir continuously until all gelatin crystals are completely dissolved to ensure a smooth mixture.
  3. Combine ingredients: Into the dissolved gelatin, add the crushed pineapple with its juice, the slightly drained sweetened sliced strawberries, and the entire can of whole cranberry sauce. Stir well to combine. Then fold in the fresh blueberries and the prepared apple and banana fruit mixture, mixing gently until evenly incorporated.
  4. Chill: Pour the combined mixture into a 9×13-inch dish or mold. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until the gelatin has fully set into a firm, sliceable salad.
  5. Garnish and serve: Before serving, optionally top with whipped cream and sprinkle with chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor. Serve the fruit salad cold for a refreshing dessert.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice to help prevent the apple and banana from browning and to add a subtle tanginess.
  • If you prefer a firmer texture, reduce the amount of crushed pineapple juice slightly before mixing, as extra liquid can soften the gelatin set.
  • Frozen strawberries should be thawed and lightly drained to avoid excess liquid diluting the gelatin salad.
  • For a nut-free option, omit the walnuts or pecans and consider using toasted coconut flakes for crunch.
  • This salad can be prepared a day in advance to allow flavors to meld thoroughly.

Keywords: Jell-O fruit salad, gelatin dessert, strawberry gelatin salad, fruit salad dessert, easy Jell-O salad, holiday dessert