This stunning no-bake dessert showcases fresh seasonal fruits suspended in a crystal-clear watermelon gelatin that’s both visually impressive and naturally refreshing. With minimal ingredients and maximum visual impact, these individual dessert cups prove that the simplest recipes often deliver the most satisfying results, perfect for summer entertaining or healthy family treats.
Ingredients
- 500ml (2 cups) fresh watermelon juice, strained
- 25g (1 oz) unflavored gelatin powder
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- Assorted fresh fruits: red grapes, banana slices, blueberries, nectarine pieces, plum slices, green grapes
- Digestive biscuits or graham crackers for base (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare watermelon juice: Extract juice from fresh watermelon and strain through a fine mesh to remove pulp and seeds. Let settle for 5 minutes, then carefully pour off clear juice, leaving any sediment behind.
- Bloom the gelatin: Sprinkle gelatin powder over 100ml (1/3 cup) of the watermelon juice in a small bowl. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until gelatin swells and absorbs the liquid.
- Dissolve gelatin: Gently warm the remaining watermelon juice in a saucepan over low heat. Add the bloomed gelatin mixture and stir until completely dissolved. Do not boil. Add lemon juice and stir.
- Cool slightly: Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes. Refrigerate for 10 minutes until slightly thickened but not set.
- Prepare serving glasses: If using biscuits, crumble and place a small amount in the bottom of each serving glass or mold.
- Assemble desserts: Arrange fresh fruit pieces attractively in each glass. Slowly pour the cooled watermelon gelatin over the fruit, ensuring even distribution.
- Set the gelatin: Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours or until completely set and firm.
- Serve: Remove from refrigerator 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to develop.
Time & Serving
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Setting Time: 3-4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8 individual cups
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 85 | Fat: 0g | Carbs: 20g | Fiber: 2g | Protein: 3g | Sugar: 17g
Why This Recipe is Healthy
This naturally sweetened dessert provides hydration from watermelon’s high water content plus essential vitamins and antioxidants from the mixed fruits. The gelatin offers protein and supports joint health, while the variety of colorful fruits delivers vitamin C, fiber, and phytonutrients. With no added sugar or artificial ingredients, this dessert satisfies sweet cravings while contributing to daily fruit intake and overall nutrition goals.