BLUEBERRY JELLO SALAD
An Irresistible Blueberry Jello Salad Recipe to Brighten Your Table
There’s something magical about a recipe that combines the nostalgia of jello with the vibrant taste of fresh fruit. Our Blueberry Jello Salad is just that—an enchanting dessert that brings sweetness and tang together in perfect harmony. Imagine a dish that resembles a blueberry cheesecake, layered with a surprise tang from pineapple, and topped with a creamy finish. Whether you’re serving it at a festive gathering or making it just because, this jello salad is sure to become a beloved staple in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple steps with readily available ingredients make this dish a breeze to prepare.
- Family Favorite: It’s been a hit at Thanksgiving and Christmas parties, with guests always asking for more.
- Versatile: Perfect for potlucks, parties, or as a light dessert for your family.
- Customizable: You can adjust sweetness and texture by using fresh or frozen blueberries instead of pie filling.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 can (16 ounces) crushed pineapple (reserve drained juice)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 2 boxes (3 ounces each) grape or berry-blue JELL-O gelatin (sugar-free JELL-O can be used as a substitute)
- 1 can (16 ounces) blueberry pie filling
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries, washed
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Drain the pineapple juice into a measuring cup and add boiling water to make a full cup.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the gelatin with the juice and water mixture. Stir until the gelatin crystals are completely dissolved.
- Add the crushed pineapple and blueberry pie filling to the gelatin mixture and stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and refrigerate until firmly set, about 2 to 3 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, prepare the cream cheese topping. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to whip until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the cream cheese topping evenly over the set jello salad. Garnish with fresh blueberries and chopped pecans.
- Cover with plastic wrap and chill for another 30 minutes before serving.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to achieve a smooth topping.
- For a decorative touch, reserve some blueberries to place on top just before serving.
- Store leftovers in a covered container to prevent the formation of a thick skin on the jello surface.
Additional Tips and Variations
- For a less sweet version, use fresh or frozen blueberries in place of pie filling.
- Consider adding the mixture to pre-baked graham cracker crusts for a pie-like presentation.
- Substitute raspberry jello for an exciting flavor twist.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 10g
- Sugar: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the jello mixture up to a day in advance and add the cream cheese topping before serving.
What if I don’t have a 9×13-inch pan?
You can use two smaller dishes or adjust the recipe to fit your available dish. Just be sure to chill until set.
Is there a lower-calorie option?
Use sugar-free jello and low-fat cream cheese and sour cream to reduce calories.
Conclusion
This Blueberry Jello Salad is a delightful addition to any meal, offering a refreshing mix of flavors and textures. Whether you’re sharing it at a holiday feast or enjoying it as a family treat, we hope it becomes a cherished recipe in your collection. Give it a try and share your experiences with us—your feedback is always welcome!
