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–+ servings
Layer Salad
Layer Salad is a nostalgic dessert that combines fruity gelatin, marshmallows, crushed pineapple, and bananas in a vibrant, creamy creation that’s both playful and delicious. Popular in mid-century potlucks and family gatherings, it blends citrusy Jell-O flavors with a smooth custard-style topping enriched with pineapple juice and whipped cream. Its layered texture and tropical notes make it a standout dish perfect for holidays or summer dinners. This retro treat has the charm of a dessert disguised as a salad, a hallmark of classic American kitchen creativity.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 35 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10
Calories 212 kcal

Ingredients
  

Base Layer:

  • 1 box lemon Jell-O
  • 1 box orange Jell-O (or other combination you like)
  • 16 large marshmallows
  • 4 cups boiling water
  • ½ to ¾ cup crushed pineapple (drained)
  • 2 bananas (sliced or diced)

Topping:

  • 3 tbsp flour
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • 2 beaten eggs
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1 pinch of salt
  • 1 box Dream Whip (or 2 cups prepared whipped topping)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Dissolve Jell-O

  • In a large bowl, combine both boxes of Jell-O and marshmallows.
  • Pour in 4 cups of boiling water.
  • Stir until marshmallows are completely dissolved.

Step 2: Chill and Thicken

  • Let the Jell-O mixture cool slightly at room temperature or in the refrigerator until it begins to thicken but is not set.

Step 3: Add Fruit

  • Fold in crushed pineapple and sliced bananas.
  • Pour mixture into a 9x13-inch dish.
  • Chill until fully set (about 2–3 hours).

Step 4: Make Custard Topping

  • In a saucepan, whisk together flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
  • Add pineapple juice, butter, and beaten eggs.
  • Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
  • Remove from heat and let cool completely.

Step 5: Combine and Top

  • Fold cooled custard into prepared Dream Whip or whipped topping.
  • Spread evenly over the chilled Jell-O layer.
  • Chill again until ready to serve.

Tips

  • Use any flavor of Jell-O you prefer (orange, lemon, pineapple, or a mix).
  • Add chopped nuts to the topping as suggested on the card.
  • Replace bananas with mandarin oranges for a brighter citrus profile.
  • Use real whipped cream instead of Dream Whip for a richer topping.
  • Add shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
  • Fold in mini marshmallows directly into the topping for extra texture.
  • Chill overnight for firmer slices that hold their shape better.
  • Spread topping while the base is fully cooled to prevent melting.
  • Add maraschino cherries on top for a classic retro party look.

Nutrition

Calories: 212kcalCarbohydrates: 49gProtein: 3gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0.4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.4gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 33mgSodium: 127mgPotassium: 146mgFiber: 1gSugar: 39gVitamin A: 70IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 22mgIron: 1mg
Keyword gelatin salad, handwritten recipe, layered salad, nostalgic food, pineapple banana salad, potluck classic, retro recipe, sweet salad, vintage dessert
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