Homemade Jell-O Low Calorie Gelatin Dessert Cherry Recipe: A Healthier, More Delicious Alternative

Introduction

Jell-O, a beloved brand since 1897, revolutionized desserts with its convenient gelatin mixes. The Low Calorie Gelatin Dessert in Cherry is a favorite for its sweet, tangy flavor and low-calorie profile. While store-bought is easy, making it at home offers customization, better nutrition, and cost savings. This recipe captures the original's essence using natural ingredients, making it a healthier, tastier alternative.

Why Make It at Home?

Making gelatin dessert at home allows you to control sweetness, avoid artificial additives, and use natural flavors. It's also budget-friendly and customizable to dietary needs.

Personal Anecdote

I remember the delight of Jell-O as a child, but as an adult, I sought a healthier version. Experimenting with natural sweeteners and flavors, I crafted a recipe that's not only healthier but also more vibrant and delicious.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:10 minutes
• **Cook Time:5 minutes
• **Total Time:15 minutes
• **Yield:4 servings

Ingredients

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 envelope (7g) unflavored gelatin
• 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sweetener (like erythritol)
• 1/8 tsp citric acid (optional, for tang)

Wet Ingredients:

• 2 cups (475ml) water
• 2-3 drops natural cherry flavor extract
• 5-7 drops red food coloring (or 2 tbsp beet juice)

Instructions

• Bloom Gelatin: In a small bowl, mix gelatin with 2 tbsp (30ml) cold water. Let sit 5 minutes to bloom.
• Dissolve Gelatin: In a medium saucepan, combine bloomed gelatin and 2 cups water. Heat on low, stirring until gelatin dissolves.
• Add Sweetener and Citric Acid: Stir in sweetener and citric acid until dissolved.
• Stir in Flavor and Color: Remove from heat. Add cherry flavor and red coloring. Stir well.
• Chill: Pour into a 9x13 inch dish. Refrigerate until set, about 3-4 hours.
• Serve: Cut into cubes and serve.

Variations

• Sugar-Free: Use sugar-free sweeteners.
• Fruity Twist: Add fresh berries or a layer of fruit puree.
• Different Flavors: Try lemon or raspberry extracts.

Pro Tips

• Perfect Bloom: Ensure gelatin blooms fully to avoid clumps.
• Avoid Overheating: Keep mixture below boiling to maintain gelatin structure.
• Adjust Flavor: Taste before chilling and adjust sweetness or flavor.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh cherry juice? Yes, but it may add calories and affect clarity.
• What if too runny? Let it chill longer or add a little more gelatin.
• Can I make it sugar-free? Yes, use erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
• How long does it last? Up to 7 days refrigerated.
• Can I scale the recipe? Double or halve as needed, adjusting water proportionally.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Dessert: Serve plain or with whipped cream.
• Fruit Salad: Mix with fresh fruit for a light salad.
• Layered Parfait: Alternate with yogurt and granola.

Conclusion

This recipe offers a healthier, customizable alternative to store-bought Jell-O, with natural ingredients and fewer calories. Enjoy the nostalgic taste with modern nutritional benefits. Share your creations and feedback!