Sweet & Savory: The Best Vegan Fruit Jello Recipe
Hey there, fellow foodies!
This is a recipe close to my heart – Vegan Fruit Jello Cups Recipe. I have always had a soft spot for jello and jelly-based desserts, but it can be tough finding ones that are vegan-friendly. So after many attempts in the kitchen, I’ve come up with a recipe that combines my love for jello and being plant-based!
It’s perfect for vegans or anyone who wants to enjoy a deliciously fruity dessert without any animal products. This recipe is made with Agar-agar (a vegetable-based gelatin substitute) which gives it the same texture as regular jello without using any gelatin derived from animals.
These jello cups are not only easy to make, they’re also incredibly versatile – you can use any fruit juice of your choice to create endless fruit combinations. You can also top them off with fresh fruits or coconut whipped cream for an extra burst of flavor.
So let’s get started on this homemade vegan jello recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Get ready to feel the sweet taste of summer in your mouth! If you’re looking for a dessert recipe that is not only delicious but also vegan-friendly, then this Vegan Fruit Jello Cups Recipe is perfect for you.
This recipe is made without gelatin and instead, it uses agar-agar powder, a plant-based alternative. Agar-agar flakes or powder, derived from seaweed, can produce the same results as traditional gelatin without the need for any animal-derived products. So, you can indulge in this dessert without any guilt or hesitation.
The recipe is incredibly versatile and allows you to use your favorite fruit juice – apple, raspberry or orange – to make these colorful jello cups. You can also experiment with different flavors and fruits to create unique combinations of your own. Imagine biting into a fruity cup full of mango jelly or strawberry jelly that bursts with flavor in every bite.
Not only is this recipe simple and easy to make, but it’s also very low in calories and high in nutrition. You won’t have to worry about indulging a little bit because these vegan jello cups are healthy and nutritious, so you don’t have to sacrifice your health for your sweet tooth.
In short, this Vegan Fruit Jello Cups Recipe is perfect for all vegan dessert enthusiasts who want to enjoy a refreshing and flavorful dessert without compromising their health or values. It’s a guilt-free treat that will satiate your cravings while providing essential nutrients necessary to nourish your body. Try it out today and let your taste buds rejoice!
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you will need to make this delicious and refreshing dessert:
- 2 cups of fruit juice of your choice (we recommend apple, raspberry, or any other tangy fruit)
- 1 cup of water
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons of agar-agar flakes or 1 teaspoon of agar powder
- 1 cup of white sugar
Agar-agar powder or agar flakes are plant-based alternatives to gelatin derived from animals. They provide the essential gelling agent for this vegan jello recipe. Ensure that the ingredients listed in this section are measured correctly for perfect results.
The Recipe How-To
Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
In order to make this delicious vegan fruit jello cups, you will need:
- 2 cups of your favorite fruit juice (100% fruit juice)
- 1 cup of water
- 2 tablespoons of agar-agar flakes or 2 teaspoons agar agar powder
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
You can use any type of fruit juice, such as apple, raspberry, or any other of your choice. Make sure it is pure fruit juice with no added sugars. Agar-agar is a gelatin substitute derived from seaweed and it’s used to thicken and gel foods. It works as a great vegan replacement for traditional gelatin derived from animal products.
Step 2: Boil the Fruit Juice
Begin by boiling the 2 cups of fruit juice in a small pot. Once it’s boiling, lower the heat to medium and gently simmer for a few minutes.
Step 3: Mix in the Agar-Agar
In a separate bowl, mix the agar-agar flakes or powder in 1 cup of water. Stir well to ensure that there are no lumps.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add the sugar into the pot with the fruit juice and stir until it dissolves completely. Next, add the mixture of agar-agar and water into the pot with the fruit juice.
Step 5: Heat and Simmer
Bring everything to boil over medium heat while whisking continuously. Keep whisking until all ingredients are combined.
Step 6: Add Lemon Juice
Afterward, add a teaspoon of lemon juice to balance and enhance the flavor.
Step 7: Pour Into Cups
When done, remove it from heat and pour it into small cups or molds. You may use dixie cups or silicone molds so they can be easily removed once set.
Step 8: Chill Until Firm
Place them in a fridge for at least an hour or until fully set before serving. After that, you can enjoy your fruity vegan jello cups! They go perfectly with other desserts like cakes, fruit terrines or even on their own!
This recipe makes for a perfect dessert that’s low on calories and nutrition-packed! Go ahead, try this unique vegan jello recipe today!
Substitutions and Variations
When it comes to making vegan jello cups, there are tons of possibilities when it comes to customization. Feel free to experiment with different fruit juices and flavors until you find the perfect combination for your taste buds.
If you’re looking for a tangy twist to your jello cups, consider using lemon juice instead of fruit juice. This adds an extra level of zing that pairs well with the sweetness of the sugar and the jelly texture from the agar-agar flakes.
Not in the mood for lemon? That’s okay! You can swap out the fruit juice for any juice of your choice. Apple juice, orange juice, or even pineapple juice would make a deliciously fruity concoction.
For those who prefer a more intense flavor profile, try experimenting with different combinations of juices to create an original recipe. For example, you can mix raspberry and apple juice to make raspberry apple jello cups or use mango and pineapple for a tropical flavor explosion.
If you’re feeling adventurous, add chunks of diced fruit to your gelatin mixture before it sets. This will give your jello cups a bit more texture and color variety. You can add strawberries, raspberries or any other fresh fruit that you enjoy.
Lastly, if you want to impress your guests with an elegant dessert, use the gelatin mixture as a base for a layered fruit terrine or as a topping on cakes. A mango jelly cake recipe topped with fresh berries or layered strawberry jelly is sure to impress your loved ones.
Remember that the possibilities are endless when making homemade vegan jello cups. Don’t hesitate to try out new combinations and experiment until you find flavors that make your taste buds dance!
Serving and Pairing
These vegan fruit jello cups are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without sacrificing any of your dietary restrictions. Serve them up as a delightful snack or dessert, and they’ll be sure to impress your guests.
Because of their sweet and fruity flavor, these jello cups pair perfectly with a variety of dishes. I recommend serving them alongside a light meal, like a salad or vegetable stir-fry, to balance out the flavors of the dish. Alternatively, they would also be a fantastic addition to a brunch spread, paired with fresh fruit or vegan pastries. The versatility of this dish is part of what makes it so great!
If you’re feeling adventurous, try using these jello cups to create unique desserts like fruit terrines or jelly cakes. They can also be turned into fun and colorful jello shots for parties and get-togethers. The possibilities are endless!
When it comes to beverages, you want something light and refreshing to complement the sweetness of the jello cups. I recommend pairing them with a fruity iced tea, lemonade, or even a sparkling water. This way, all the flavors work together seamlessly for a delicious and refreshing treat.
Overall, these vegan fruit jello cups are a versatile dish that can be served on its own or creatively incorporated into other desserts and meals. With its bright colors and fresh flavors, it is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Now that you have made your Vegan Fruit Jello Cups, you might be wondering about how to store and reheat them. The good news is that this recipe can be prepared ahead of time and stored for later.
You can make these jello cups a day or two before serving. After removing from the refrigerator and setting up, cover with saran wrap or air-tight lids and place in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze these treats; just make sure to put them in an airtight container to avoid freezer burn. Defrost the frozen jello cups in the fridge overnight before serving.
The best way to reheat the Jello Cups is to use the microwave oven. Place the individual jello cups on a microwave-safe plate, covering them with a piece of paper towel or parchment paper to prevent spilling over as they warm up. Heat for 20-30 seconds depending on the size of your jello cups or until warm and soft.
These fruit jello cups are perfect for meal prep, parties or for whenever you crave something light yet delicious. They are not only yummy but also feature healthy ingredients!
Tips for Perfect Results
To achieve perfect vegan fruit jello cups, there are a few important tips to keep in mind. First and foremost, ensure that you accurately follow the ingredients and measurements listed in the recipe. This will guarantee that your agar-agar sets properly and your jello cups end up being delightful.
Agar-agar reacts differently with different fruit juices, so do choose your fruit juice carefully. Acidic fruits like lemon, lime or grapefruit need more agar-agar to set than sweeter juices like apple, grape or pear. Raspberry juice requires higher amounts of agar compared to mango juice. When using fresh fruits, you may need to adjust the amount of agar slightly as fresh fruits contain natural enzymes that might tenderize it.
Also, be sure to mix the agar-agar well and add it gradually while stirring continuously into the hot liquid until it dissolves completely before boiling. The mixture should come to a full boil before you allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes until the agar has dissolved.
When pouring the mixture into your molds, start with a small amount at first then add more if required as this lets you control how thick or thin the jello is in each cup. Let each layer cool down for 5-10 minutes before adding another layer.
Additionally, if creating several layers or shapes, chilling the first layer in advance will make it easier for subsequent layers to adhere without sliding off each other which can cause leakage and ultimate disappointment when serving.
Another tip my grandma shared with me is to lightly grease the molds with coconut oil or vegetable oil spray just before filling them up; doing so ensures they come out easily from the mold with neat edges.
Lastly but most importantly, don’t forget the fun part about making these vegan jello cups – experiment with different flavors and fruit combos! A mango jelly cake recipe could be made by preparing a plate of mango slices followed by a jelly or jello made up of raspberry vegan jello cubes mixed in boiling fruit water – this terrine would be too beautiful not to make again! You could also try using some different shapes such as heart-shaped mold for strawberry jelly – creative ideas will lead to an even better tasting final product.
FAQ
Now that you know how to make delicious Vegan Fruit Jello Cups at home, you may have some questions on your mind. You are not alone! Below are some frequently asked questions about the recipe along with expert advice to help you achieve perfect results every time you prepare these healthy and yummy treats.
Are jello cups vegan?
While traditional gelatin may not be suitable for vegans, there are various plant-based options available in the market that can be used to make classic Jell-o desserts or adult Jell-o shots.
Is vegan jello the same as regular jello?
When it comes to whether Jello is suitable for vegetarians or vegans, it’s important to note that the traditional recipe contains gelatin. Gelatin is a substance derived from animal skin and bones, making it unsuitable for those who follow a plant-based diet. However, there are alternative options for vegetarians and vegans who still want to enjoy Jello-like desserts. These alternatives are made using plant-based gums or seaweed such as agar or carrageenan.
What is vegan jello made of?
For those following a vegetarian lifestyle, there are alternatives to traditional Jello. Vegan versions of the gelatin-based dessert can be made using plant-based alternatives like seaweed-derived or tapioca and pectin-based vegan gelatin instead of the animal-based gelatin.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Vegan Fruit Jello Cups Recipe is not only delicious but also healthy and simple to make. By using vegan ingredients like agar-agar flakes or powder instead of gelatin derived from animals, you can enjoy a dessert that aligns with your vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. This recipe allows you to experiment with your favourite fruit juices, create various flavour combinations and add different fruits for more texture.
The nutritional value of the Vegan Fruit Jello Cups is exceptional as it contains 100% fruit juice with no added preservatives or artificial sweeteners. The recipe is also versatile, and you can make it ahead of time for entertaining guests, take it on a picnic, or even pack it in a lunch box. With only a few minutes of boiling fruit juice and adding agar, you can make decadent jello cups that are sure to impress everyone.
So why not indulge your sweet tooth without compromising your values? Try this Vegan Fruit Jello Cups Recipe today and share it with your friends and family. Show them that vegan desserts can be just as tasty as the ones made with animal-derived products. Eat healthily while enjoying a tantalizing treat that will leave everyone asking for more!
Vegan Fruit Jello Cups Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon agar-agar flakes or 1 teaspoon agar, powder
- 2 tablespoons white sugar (or Splenda)
- 2 cups boiling fruit juice (apple juice is a great neutral flavor and don't use real pineapple or kiwi or it wont set)
- 1 (14 ounce) can mixed fruit, in fruit juice (or canned fruit of your choice-NOT pineapple or kiwi)
Optional
- fresh fruit, cleaned and small-chunked can be substituted for canned. (Do not use kiwi or pineapple because those fruits contain enzymes that prevent the Agar from gelling) (optional)
Optional
- 1 -2 tablespoon lemon juice (for keeping fresh cut fruit from browning..can also use commercial product like (Fruit-Fresh, option) (optional) or 1 -2 tablespoon orange juice (for keeping fresh cut fruit from browning..can also use commercial product like (Fruit-Fresh) (optional)
Optional
- food coloring (we like the extreme colors) (optional)
Instructions
- If using fresh fruit, clean and peel hard skinned fruits (apples, pears, oranges, etc, melons, etc) and cut into small chunks. Use your choice of anti-browning agent and sprinkle, then toss to coat well the cut fruit. Set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, add 2 cups fruit juice, agar and sugar together. Stir well and bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer, stirring often, for 5 minutes or until both the agar and sugar have dissolved. If using Splenda, cool mixture a bit before adding. Don't allow Splenda to boil because the texture changes and will affect the finished Jello.
- Open can of fruit and drain.
- Line up your cups and pour mixture to about half (using the cups I mentioned above). When all mixture is poured in, add 1 tiny drop to each container you want to color and mix with a spoon. The extreme colors are very bright/dark and I think the pink and green/yellow turn out the prettiest with the fruit. Don't use big drops or you wont be able to see the fruit as well. Sometimes I split one drop between two by putting one drop in one container and then pouring the mixture back and forth in the separate containers till desired color is achieved. The regular food coloring has nice Christmas colors. The kids love this part!
- After you are happy with your colors, add about 2 TB of the chunked fruit to your cups. It will sink to the bottom and raise the level of the gelatin to within 1/4" of the top.
- Cover and chill about 2-4 hours or until soft set.
- Feel free to use different kinds of juice and fruit. Each container has about 2 servings of fruit.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Jolo is a talented chef and food blogger with a passion for vegan and Caribbean flavors. From savory vegetarian dishes to tropical smoothies, Jolo’s Kitchen has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for meat-free meals or creative Caribbean recipes, Jolo’s Kitchen is the perfect place for you.