Why You’ll Love This Jello Salad

Sour Cream Jello Salad is a refreshing and delightful dish that combines the tang of sour cream with the sweetness of fruity gelatin, making it the perfect side dish or light dessert for any occasion. The creamy texture and vibrant colors make it an instant hit at potlucks, family gatherings, and summer barbecues. Not only is it easy to prepare with simple ingredients, but it can be made ahead of time, giving you one less thing to worry about. Plus, it’s a versatile dish, so you can adapt it to your taste with different fruits and flavors.

Ingredients

For the fruit gelatin base:

4 boxes (3 oz each) raspberry gelatin
3 ½ cups hot water
2 bags (12 oz each) frozen raspberries
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple with juice
4 bananas, mashed

For the creamy layer:

1 pint sour cream

For garnish:

Fresh raspberries
Mint leaves

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Popular Sour Cream Jello Salad

Directions

Step 1: Dissolve the Raspberry Gelatin

In a large bowl, combine the 4 boxes of raspberry gelatin with the hot water. Whisk thoroughly with a wire whisk until the gelatin is completely dissolved, making sure the mixture is clear.

Step 2: Mix in Fruit

Add the frozen raspberries and the entire can of crushed pineapple (with its juice) to the dissolved gelatin. Stir until the fruit is well distributed and the mixture is uniform.

Step 3: Reserve Part of the Mixture and Add Bananas

Scoop out 2 cups of the raspberry-pineapple jello mixture and set it aside for later. To the remaining mixture, stir in the mashed bananas until combined.

Step 4: Chill the Base Layer

Pour the banana-fruit gelatin mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Place the dish in the refrigerator and let it chill until the jello is fairly well set—this should take about 1 to 2 hours. Ensure the jello has firmed up enough before moving to the next step.

Step 5: Add Sour Cream Layer

Once the base layer is set, spread the sour cream evenly over the top of the jello base, ensuring it covers the salad completely in a smooth layer.

Step 6: Top with Reserved Jello Mixture and Chill Again

Gently spoon the reserved 2 cups of raspberry-pineapple jello over the sour cream layer, spreading it to cover as evenly as possible. Return the dish to the refrigerator and chill until the entire salad is firm, about 2 to 4 hours.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once the salad is firm and fully set, cut it into 12 equal squares. Top each square with whipped cream, a fresh raspberry, and a mint leaf for garnish. You can add additional fresh fruit on the side for an extra special touch.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 12 servings.

Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
Chill Time: 2-4 hours
Total Time: 2-4 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Gelatin Flavors: You can swap raspberry gelatin for strawberry, cherry, or any other flavor you prefer. This will change the color and flavor profile but will still pair nicely with the sour cream layer.
Fruit Options: Use different fruits like mixed berries, peaches, or even mandarin oranges to add variety to the salad.
Greek Yogurt: If you’re looking for a tangier, healthier alternative, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Add More Layers: For a more elaborate presentation, try adding an additional fruit or cream layer to give your jello salad extra depth.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep the jello salad refrigerated, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 4 days. The jello will hold its shape and the flavors will meld together, making it even better the next day.
Make-Ahead: This salad is perfect for preparing up to 2 days in advance, making it ideal for potlucks, holiday meals, or gatherings.
Serving Tip: Always serve chilled for the best texture and refreshing flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh fruit instead of frozen raspberries?

Yes, you can use fresh raspberries or any other fresh fruit. If using fresh, make sure to add them after the jello has cooled a bit to prevent them from becoming too mushy.

2. Can I make this salad without bananas?

Yes, you can skip the bananas if you prefer. The salad will still taste great, but bananas add a nice creamy texture and sweetness.

3. Can I make this jello salad with a different flavor of gelatin?

Absolutely! Strawberry, cherry, or any other flavor of gelatin will work just fine. Just make sure to adjust the flavor of fruits you use to complement the gelatin.

4. Can I use low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt?

Yes, you can substitute low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that Greek yogurt will make the salad a bit tangier.

5. How long does it take for the jello salad to set?

The jello usually takes 2-4 hours to fully set in the refrigerator. You can also leave it overnight to ensure it’s completely firm.

6. Can I add other fruits to this salad?

Yes! You can add other fruits like diced peaches, mandarin oranges, or mixed berries to the jello base for more variety.

7. How do I prevent the bananas from browning?

To prevent browning, add the bananas just before serving. They can also be lightly mashed to keep them from becoming too mushy.

8. Can I freeze this jello salad?

It’s not recommended to freeze jello salads, as the texture can change upon thawing, especially the sour cream layer.

9. Can I add whipped cream to this salad?

Yes! Adding whipped cream on top or incorporating it into the layers is a great way to make the salad even creamier.

10. How should I serve this jello salad?

This salad is best served chilled and can be served as a side dish at potlucks, a light dessert, or a refreshing treat during summer barbecues.

Conclusion

Sour Cream Jello Salad is a nostalgic and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The balance of tangy sour cream, sweet fruit gelatin, and fresh fruit makes it a refreshing treat that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply need a make-ahead dish, this classic recipe is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy!

Popular Sour Cream Jello Salad

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Author: Emma
Total Time: 2-4 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Sour Cream Jello Salad is a vibrant, creamy dish that combines the tang of sour cream with the sweetness of fruity gelatin. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, and family gatherings, this refreshing salad is easy to make, customizable, and can be prepared ahead of time. The combination of fresh fruits, creamy layers, and gelatin makes this dessert a crowd-pleaser, especially during the warmer months.

Ingredients

For the fruit gelatin base:
4 boxes (3 oz each) raspberry gelatin
3 ½ cups hot water
2 bags (12 oz each) frozen raspberries
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple with juice
4 bananas, mashed
For the creamy layer:
1 pint sour cream
For garnish:
Fresh raspberries
Mint leaves

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Instructions

Dissolve the Raspberry Gelatin: In a large bowl, whisk 4 boxes of raspberry gelatin with 3 ½ cups of hot water until completely dissolved.
Mix in Fruit: Add frozen raspberries and crushed pineapple (with juice) to the gelatin mixture. Stir until evenly combined.
Reserve Part of the Mixture and Add Bananas: Set aside 2 cups of the fruit gelatin mixture. To the remaining mixture, stir in the mashed bananas.
Chill the Base Layer: Pour the banana-fruit gelatin mixture into a 9×13-inch dish and refrigerate for 1-2 hours until the gelatin has firmed up.
Add Sour Cream Layer: Spread sour cream evenly over the set gelatin layer.
Top with Reserved Jello and Chill Again: Gently spoon the reserved 2 cups of jello over the sour cream layer. Refrigerate for an additional 2-4 hours.
Serve and Garnish: Cut into 12 squares and garnish with whipped cream, fresh raspberries, and mint leaves.