Description
This healthy homemade jello recipe uses natural fruit juice and unflavored beef gelatin to create a delicious, additive-free treat perfect for kids and adults. Sweetened optionally with honey or agave, it's a simple, gluten-free, paleo-friendly dessert that's easy to prepare and store.
Ingredients
Scale
Gelatin Mixture
- 4 cups juice (see notes)
- 2 tablespoons unflavored beef gelatin (such as Vital Proteins or Great Lakes; do NOT use collagen or protein powder)
- 2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup (optional)
Instructions
- Bloom The Gelatin: Pour 1/2 cup of the juice into a liquid measuring cup or small bowl. Sprinkle the gelatin powder evenly over the juice and stir to combine. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the gelatin becomes very thick and grainy.
- Heat The Remaining Juice: While the gelatin is blooming, pour the remaining 3 1/2 cups of juice into a medium saucepan and heat over medium-high heat until the liquid is steaming hot but not boiling.
- Melt The Bloomed Gelatin: Add the honey or agave (if using) and the bloomed gelatin mixture into the hot juice. Stir continuously until the gelatin is completely dissolved, ensuring a smooth mixture without any granules.
- Set The Jello: Pour the gelatin mixture into a 2-quart ceramic pan or heat-proof containers (an 8x8, 9x9, or 11x7 inch pan works well). Cover the pan with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 to 4 hours until fully set.
- Serve & Store: Once set, enjoy the jello immediately or store it in the refrigerator. For the best texture and flavor, consume within 4 to 5 days. It can last up to 7 to 10 days without spoiling or breaking down.
Notes
- This recipe uses natural ingredients without any artificial dyes or additives, making it suitable for those seeking a clean, healthy dessert.
- Gelatin should be unflavored beef gelatin; collagen or regular protein powders will not work as they do not gel properly.
- You can use any 100% fruit juice you prefer, such as grape, apple, or cranberry, but avoid juices with added sugars or preservatives for best results.
- Adjust sweetness by adding honey, agave, or cane sugar as desired or omit entirely for a less sweet version.
- Store jello covered in the refrigerator and consume within a week for optimal freshness and texture.
- This recipe is dairy-free, gluten-free, and paleo approved.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 0.5 cup
- Calories: 84 kcal
- Sugar: 4.3 g
- Sodium: 38.7 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15.8 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
