Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious dessert that will impress your friends and family? Look no further! This Jello Divinity recipe is a delightful combination of creamy, dreamy textures and bright, fruity flavors. It’s the perfect homemade treat for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special celebrations. This recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals – it's surprisingly light yet satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 (3-ounce) package strawberry Jell-O
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 (8-ounce) container whipped topping, thawed
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a medium bowl, completely dissolve the strawberry Jell-O in the boiling water. Stir until smooth. This ensures a perfectly consistent texture in your final dessert.
Chill and Combine:
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Refrigerate the Jell-O mixture for about 2 hours, or until it begins to thicken slightly but is still pourable – think a slightly syrupy consistency. This step is crucial for a well-set Jello Divinity.
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Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping, making sure not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a deflated dessert.
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Stir in the drained crushed pineapple and optional nuts. The nuts add a wonderful textural contrast. A teaspoon of vanilla extract enhances the fruity flavors.
Set and Serve:
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Pour the mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish or individual serving dishes.
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Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the dessert to fully set.
Cooking Tips for the Best Jello Divinity:
- Use good quality ingredients: The flavor of your Jello Divinity will be directly impacted by the quality of your ingredients. Opt for fresh, high-quality whipped topping and pineapple.
- Don't overmix: Gentle folding is key to maintaining the light and airy texture of this dessert.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can reduce the amount of Jell-O used or add a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Get creative with toppings: Consider adding other fruits like mandarin oranges or blueberries, or try different types of nuts for variations on this classic recipe. Chocolate shavings would also add a delicious touch.
Variations:
- Lemon Jello Divinity: Substitute lemon Jell-O for strawberry Jell-O for a zesty twist.
- Orange Jello Divinity: Use orange Jell-O and add some mandarin orange segments for a vibrant and refreshing dessert.
- Layered Jello Divinity: Create layers by alternating Jell-O mixture with whipped topping and fruit.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Protein: Approximately 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
This Jello Divinity recipe is a delightful addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It’s a simple yet impressive dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this heavenly treat!