Tropical Lemon-Pineapple Delight
Indulge in the refreshing and vibrant flavors of our Tropical Lemon-Pineapple Delight! This no-bake dessert combines the brightness of lemon with the sweetness of pineapple, creating a delightful gelatin treat perfect for summertime gatherings, potlucks, or family get-togethers. Cream cheese adds a smooth, creamy texture, while a dollop of Cool Whip offers a light and airy finish. Optional chopped walnuts provide a satisfying crunch, making this dessert not just a feast for the eyes, but a treat that excites the palate. Share this delicious recipe with friends and family, and watch it become a favorite for every occasion.
12
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Lemon or Pineapple Jell-O gelatin
2 (3 ounce) packages (choose one flavor)
Water
2 1/2 cups (for dissolving gelatin)
Cream cheese
1 (8 ounce) package (softened)
Crushed pineapple
1 (20 ounce) can (undrained)
Cool Whip
1/2 cup (thawed, for topping)
Chopped walnuts
1/2 cup (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, combine the jello and water over medium heat.
2
Stir until the jello is completely dissolved and well mixed, about 2-3 minutes.
3
Add the undrained crushed pineapple and softened cream cheese to the mixture.
4
Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the cream cheese is fully melted and integrated into the jello mixture. It may look lumpy at first, but that’s normal.
5
Once the cream cheese is dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
6
Pour the mixture into a 9x13-inch pan. Cover and refrigerate overnight, or at least 4-6 hours until fully set.
7
When ready to serve, spread the thawed Cool Whip evenly over the top.
8
If desired, sprinkle chopped walnuts over the Cool Whip for added crunch before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tropical Lemon-Pineapple Delight?
It is a refreshing and vibrant no-bake gelatin dessert that combines lemon and pineapple flavors with cream cheese and a light Cool Whip topping.
Is this recipe easy to make?
Yes, it involves a simple process of dissolving gelatin, melting in cream cheese and pineapple, and letting it set in the refrigerator.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 12 servings, making it great for gatherings.
What flavors of gelatin should I use?
You should use two 3-ounce packages of either Lemon or Pineapple Jell-O gelatin.
Do I need to drain the crushed pineapple?
No, use the 20-ounce can of crushed pineapple undrained; the juice is essential for the recipe's flavor and moisture.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
It is recommended to use canned pineapple because the enzymes in fresh pineapple can prevent the gelatin from setting properly.
How long does the dessert take to set?
The dessert needs to refrigerate for at least 4 to 6 hours, though overnight is best for a firm set.
What size pan is required for this recipe?
A standard 9x13-inch pan is the ideal size for pouring and setting this dessert.
When should I add the Cool Whip?
The thawed Cool Whip should be spread evenly over the top only after the gelatin mixture has fully set.
Why does the mixture look lumpy when I add the cream cheese?
It is normal for the mixture to look lumpy at first; continue stirring over medium heat until the cream cheese is fully melted and integrated.
Are the walnuts required for this recipe?
No, the chopped walnuts are optional and are used as a garnish to provide a satisfying crunch.
Can I substitute the walnuts with another nut?
Yes, chopped pecans or almonds would be excellent alternatives if you prefer them over walnuts.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be kept covered and stored in the refrigerator to maintain their texture and freshness.
Can this dessert be frozen?
Freezing is not recommended as it can significantly alter the texture of the gelatin and cream cheese once it thaws.
What is the main flavor profile of this dish?
The dish features a bright, citrusy lemon flavor complemented by the sweet and tropical notes of crushed pineapple.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat or Neufchatel cheese, though the final result might be slightly less creamy than with full-fat cream cheese.
Is this recipe suitable for a potluck?
Absolutely, its refreshing taste and easy-to-serve format make it a popular choice for potlucks and family get-togethers.
How much water is needed to dissolve the gelatin?
The recipe calls for 2 and 1/2 cups of water.
Do I need to boil the water?
You combine the water and gelatin in a saucepan over medium heat until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
Most gelatin, cream cheese, and whipped toppings are gluten-free, but you should always check the labels of the specific brands you use.
Can I use real whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
You can, but real whipped cream is less stable and may soften or run faster than Cool Whip.
Should the cream cheese be cold when added?
It is best to use softened cream cheese so that it melts more quickly and smoothly into the gelatin mixture.
How much Cool Whip is used for the topping?
The recipe suggests using 1/2 cup of thawed Cool Whip to spread over the top.
Can I add other fruits like mandarin oranges?
Yes, you can add small amounts of other fruits, just ensure they are drained if they are canned to avoid adding too much extra liquid.
Is this a good recipe for kids?
Yes, the sweet, fruity flavor and soft texture make it very family-friendly and appealing to children.
What is the preparation time?
The active stovetop preparation takes about 10 to 15 minutes, plus the time required for chilling.
Can I make this in individual serving cups?
Yes, you can pour the mixture into individual ramekins or glasses for a more formal presentation.
Does this recipe contain dairy?
Yes, it contains cream cheese and typically Cool Whip, which contains dairy derivatives.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
No, traditional Jell-O gelatin contains collagen derived from animals, so it is not considered vegetarian.
Can the recipe be doubled?
Yes, you can double the ingredients, but you will need to use two 9x13 pans or a much larger serving dish.