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–+ servings
Red Jello Dessert
Red Jello Dessert is a nostalgic American classic that often appeared at family gatherings, church socials, and holiday potlucks throughout the mid-20th century. Its bright color, fruity sweetness, and creamy topping make it both visually appealing and satisfying to eat. The combination of cherry or strawberry Jell-O, pineapple juice, nuts, marshmallows, and whipped cream creates a layered treat that’s part gelatin salad, part creamy dessert. This recipe captures the joy of vintage kitchen creations—colorful, fun, and perfect for feeding a crowd.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Chill/Set Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 25 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 15
Calories 210 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 boxes red Jell-O (strawberry or cherry, 3 oz each)
  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • 5 cups water (divided)
  • 1 cup nuts (chopped )
  • 20 oz pineapple chunks (drained)
  • 7 oz miniature marshmallows
  • 1 pint whipping cream

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Jello Base

  • Boil 3 cups of water. Dissolve the Jell-O in the boiling water.

Step 2: Add Liquids

  • Add a pinch of salt, then stir in 2 cups cold water and 1 cup pineapple juice. Mix well.

Step 3: Chill and Set

  • Pour mixture into a 13x9 inch pan. Refrigerate until partially set.

Step 4: Prepare Topping

  • In a bowl, whip cream until stiff peaks form. Fold in chopped nuts, drained pineapple chunks, and miniature marshmallows.

Step 5: Assemble Dessert

  • Spread whipped topping mixture evenly over the chilled Jell-O.

Step 6: Chill Until Firm

  • Refrigerate until fully set, about 3–4 hours. Cut into squares and serve.

Tips

  • Use strawberry or cherry gelatin as written on the card
  • Chill the first Jell-O layer until lightly set before adding topping to prevent sinking
  • Fold whipped cream gently to keep topping fluffy
  • Drain pineapple very well to prevent watery texture
  • Add chopped nuts as written for classic texture, or omit for nut-free
  • Substitute strawberries for pineapple if desired
  • Use large marshmallows cut up if mini marshmallows are unavailable
  • For cleaner slices, chill overnight before cutting
  • Serve in clear glass dish to show layers

Nutrition

Calories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 3gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 60mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 22gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 0.4mg
Keyword easy dessert, pineapple marshmallow dessert, potluck dessert, red jello, retro recipe, vintage dessert, whipped cream topping
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