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Retro Bulk Jell-O Salad Recipe Easy Homemade Canned Fruit Delight

Retro Bulk Jell-O Salad - featured image

A nostalgic and crowd-pleasing Jell-O salad featuring a creamy gelatin base combined with a medley of canned fruits, perfect for summer potlucks and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 (3 oz / 85 g) packages of flavored gelatin (cherry and orange recommended)
  • 6 cups (1.4 L) boiling water
  • 1 can (20 oz / 567 g) pineapple chunks, drained
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) mandarin oranges, drained
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) fruit cocktail, drained
  • 1 cup (150 g) maraschino cherries, halved
  • 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup (240 ml) mayonnaise
  • 1 cup (200 g) mini marshmallows (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pour 6 cups of boiling water into a large mixing bowl. Add all four packages of flavored gelatin and stir until completely dissolved, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Let the gelatin sit at room temperature until itโ€™s just warm to the touch, about 10-15 minutes.
  3. Stir in 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and 1 cup mayonnaise until smooth and fully combined.
  4. Gently fold in the drained pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, fruit cocktail, and halved maraschino cherries.
  5. If using, stir in 1 cup mini marshmallows.
  6. Pour the mixture into a serving dish or trifle bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
  7. Serve chilled, optionally garnished with extra cherries or toasted coconut.

Notes

Use low-fat or full-fat dairy based on preference. Substitute dairy-free yogurt and vegan mayo for a dairy-free version. Fresh fruit can replace canned fruit in summer. Drain canned fruit well to avoid watery salad. For a firmer salad, reduce water by 1/2 cup. Chill at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture. Optional marshmallows add a sweet, fluffy texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Jell-O salad, canned fruit salad, retro dessert, potluck recipe, gelatin salad, creamy fruit salad, summer dessert