If you are searching for a refreshing and delightful dessert that combines zesty citrus with tropical sweetness, this Lemon Pineapple Jello with Pineapple Whipped Cream Topping Recipe is your new go-to treat. It brings together bright lemon jello, juicy crushed pineapple, and a luxuriously fluffy pineapple-infused whipped cream to create a dessert that is light, colorful, and downright irresistible. Perfect for potlucks, summer evenings, or anytime you want a cool, sweet ending to your meal, this recipe strikes the ideal balance between nostalgic comfort and fresh flavor.

Lemon Pineapple Jello with Pineapple Whipped Cream Topping Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a few simple and everyday ingredients is all you need to whip up this spectacular Lemon Pineapple Jello with Pineapple Whipped Cream Topping Recipe. Each ingredient plays a key role in contributing to the vibrant taste, elegant texture, and playful appearance that make this dessert so special.

Lemon jello (2 boxes or 1 large box): provides that classic tangy lemon flavor and bright yellow color that is the star of this dish.
Water (4 cups, divided): essential for dissolving the gelatin and balancing the sweetness of the dessert.
Miniature marshmallows (1 cup): melt into the hot jello creating a creamy consistency with an added hint of vanilla sweetness.
Crushed pineapple (1 20-ounce can, drained): adds bursts of juicy pineapple flavor and texture throughout the jello.
Reserved pineapple juice: used to make the luscious pineapple whipped cream topping for a harmonious tropical twist.
Large egg (1): helps thicken the pineapple juice topping for a rich, velvety finish.
All-purpose flour (1 tablespoon): stabilizes the whipped cream topping and improves texture.
Granulated sugar (1/3 cup plus extra for whipped cream): balances the tartness and sweetens each element elegantly.
Heavy whipping cream (1 1/4 cups): forms the base of the fluffy, creamy topping that complements the jello perfectly.
Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): adds depth and warmth to the whipped cream component.
Chopped walnuts (3/4 cup, optional): provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor contrast when sprinkled on top.

How to Make Lemon Pineapple Jello with Pineapple Whipped Cream Topping Recipe

Step 1: Dissolve and Combine the Jello

Start by heating 2 cups of water to boiling — a microwave works beautifully here. Once hot, stir in your lemon jello powder carefully until it’s completely dissolved. Remember to separate the juice from your can of crushed pineapple by draining it into a small saucepan; you’ll use that gold later for the topping. Next, stir in the miniature marshmallows gently into the hot lemon mixture until they melt away, giving your jello a creamy undertone. Fold in the drained crushed pineapple for texture and tropical sweetness.

Step 2: Setting the Jello Base

Next, add 2 cups of cold water into your jello mixture; this brings the right consistency and makes sure it isn’t overly stiff. Pour everything into a large rectangular glass dish and carefully transfer it to the fridge. Patience is key here as the jello needs about 3 to 4 hours to set completely, ensuring the perfect wobble and bite.

Step 3: Prepare the Pineapple Whipped Cream Topping

While your jello chills, start the topping by whisking together the beaten egg, flour, and 1/4 cup of sugar with your reserved pineapple juice over medium-low heat. Keep whisking constantly, so your sauce thickens smoothly without scrambling the egg — this should take about 4 to 6 minutes. Once thick, pull it off the heat and allow it to cool completely, preparing it to join the whipped cream in the next step.

Step 4: Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream using an electric mixer on high speed. Slowly add 2 to 3 tablespoons of sugar and the vanilla extract as you whip it. The goal here is to achieve stiff peaks — that means your whipped cream should hold its shape beautifully when you lift the beaters out.

Step 5: Combine and Finalize

Gently fold the now-cooled pineapple sauce into the whipped cream, folding carefully so you keep all that fluffy airiness intact. Spread this heavenly pineapple whipped cream topping evenly over your fully set jello. For an added touch of texture and flavor, sprinkle with chopped walnuts if you like, and pop the dessert back into the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve Lemon Pineapple Jello with Pineapple Whipped Cream Topping Recipe

Garnishes

Presentation is part of the fun! Brighten up your serving dish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color or add a few pineapple chunks on top to echo the tropical theme. The chopped walnuts sprinkled over the cream topping add a lovely crunch and nutty aroma that makes every bite even more enjoyable.

Side Dishes

This jello dessert pairs wonderfully with light, fresh side dishes like a crisp green salad or a plate of tropical fruit slices such as mango, kiwi, and banana. For a picnic or potluck, keep other dishes simple and refreshing to let the Lemon Pineapple Jello with Pineapple Whipped Cream Topping Recipe shine as the star sweet treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra wow factor, try serving this jello in individual clear glasses or parfait cups layered with crushed graham crackers or thin vanilla wafers. You could also cut the set jello into fun shapes using cookie cutters or serve it layered with other complementary jellos in a glass trifle bowl for a stunning, festive dessert display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Lemon Pineapple Jello with Pineapple Whipped Cream Topping Recipe keeps really well covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s tightly covered with plastic wrap or kept in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing fridge odors or drying out. To maintain the cream’s fluffy texture, give it a gentle stir before serving leftovers.

Freezing

Freezing this dessert is not recommended since the jello’s gelatin structure and the delicate whipped cream topping can become grainy or watery upon thawing. For the best experience, enjoy it fresh or within a few days of making it.

Reheating

Because this is a chilled, gelatin-based dessert, reheating is not applicable. It’s meant to be enjoyed cold and refreshing straight from the fridge, so no heat required when serving this delight.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh pineapple can add an even brighter, fresher flavor. Just be sure to drain any excess juice and reserve some juice for the whipped cream topping if possible to maintain the intended flavor balance.

Is it safe to use a raw egg in the pineapple whipped cream topping?

Great question! The egg is cooked gently over low heat, which thickens the mixture and reduces any risk. However, if you’re concerned, you can use pasteurized egg products or omit the egg and substitute with a cornstarch slurry for thickening.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time for a party?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for making ahead. The jello base takes about 3-4 hours to set, and with an added chilling time once topped, you can prep it the day before your event for easy serving.

What can I substitute for walnuts if I have a nut allergy?

You can skip the nuts entirely or sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes or crushed graham crackers for a different but equally delightful crunch.

Can I use a different flavor of jello?

While lemon jello works best here for its tartness and color, other citrus flavors like lime or orange can add a fun twist. Just keep in mind how the flavor pairs with the pineapple so the dessert stays balanced.

Final Thoughts

Making this Lemon Pineapple Jello with Pineapple Whipped Cream Topping Recipe is a joyful experience from start to finish, and the result is a dessert that radiates sunshine with every spoonful. Whether you’re sharing it with family or bringing it to a gathering, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser that leaves everyone asking for the recipe. Don’t hesitate to give it a try — it might just become your new favorite dessert as well!

Lemon Pineapple Jello with Pineapple Whipped Cream Topping Recipe

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3.8 from 75 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

This refreshing Lemon Pineapple Jello features a zesty lemon gelatin base enhanced with sweet miniature marshmallows and crushed pineapple. It is topped with a creamy pineapple-flavored whipped cream, creating a light and tropical dessert perfect for gatherings or summer treats.

Ingredients

Scale

Jello Base

2 (3-ounce) boxes lemon jello (or 1 large box)
4 cups water, divided
1 cup miniature marshmallows
1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained with juice reserved

Pineapple Whipped Cream Topping

Reserved juice from the can of crushed pineapple
1 large egg
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 1/4 cups heavy whipping cream
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2–3 tablespoons additional granulated sugar
3/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare Jello Mixture: Heat 2 cups of water to boiling by microwaving it in a large glass bowl for 4-5 minutes. Stir in the contents of the lemon jello package until completely dissolved. Strain the pineapple juice from the crushed pineapple into a small saucepan for later use.
Add Marshmallows and Pineapple: Stir the miniature marshmallows into the hot lemon jello until they dissolve. Then, fold in the drained crushed pineapple. Stir in the remaining 2 cups of cold water. Pour the mixture into a large rectangular glass dish and refrigerate for 3-4 hours or until the jello is fully set.
Make Pineapple Sauce: Whisk together the large egg, 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, and 1/4 cup sugar with the reserved pineapple juice in a small saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat while continuously whisking until the sauce thickens, about 4 to 6 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
Whip the Cream: Using an electric mixer, beat the heavy whipping cream on high speed. Gradually add 2 to 3 tablespoons of sugar and the vanilla extract. Continue beating until stiff peaks form and the whipped cream holds its shape when beaters are lifted.
Combine and Top: Gently fold the cooled pineapple sauce into the whipped cream until well combined. Spread this pineapple whipped cream evenly over the fully set lemon pineapple jello. Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top if desired.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled dessert until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld and the topping to set slightly.

Notes

Ensure the pineapple juice mixture cools completely before folding into the whipped cream to prevent curdling.
Chopped walnuts add a nice crunch but can be omitted for a nut-free version.
If preferred, substitute miniature marshmallows with regular marshmallows cut into smaller pieces for similar texture.
This dessert can be prepared a day ahead for convenience.
Use fresh lemon jello or natural gelatin options for a more natural flavor profile.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American