This Orange Jelly Dessert is a simple citrus dessert made with fresh orange juice, honey, and cornstarch. The mixture cooks into a smooth jelly, chills until set, and slices neatly for serving with coconut, cherries, or mint.
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Ingredients
- Oranges: 5-6 medium oranges (2 + 1/2 cups or 600ml of fresh juice)
- Honey: 2-3 tbsp (adjust based on the sweetness of the oranges)
- Cornstarch: 1/2 cup (65g)
Optional Garnish:
- Desiccated coconut
- Candied cherries
- Fresh mint leaves
Directions
- Prepare the Orange Juice:
- Squeeze 5-6 oranges to get 2 1/2 cups (600ml) of fresh juice. Strain through a sieve for a smooth texture.
- Prepare the Mold:
- Lightly grease a 25cm x 15cm mold with oil to ensure easy removal of the jelly once set.
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a saucepan, combine orange juice, 2-3 tbsp honey, and whisk in 1/2 cup of cornstarch until smooth and lump-free.
- Cook the Mixture:
- Heat over medium, stirring constantly for 5-7 minutes until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
- Cool and Chill:
- Let the mixture cool for 10 minutes, then pour into the greased mold. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours until fully set.
- Serve:
- Loosen the jelly from the mold, invert onto a plate, and cut into squares or shapes. Garnish with coconut, cherries, or mint, and enjoy chilled.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with a sprinkle of desiccated coconut or candied cherries for added texture and color.
- Serve alongside fresh fruit or with a drizzle of extra honey for added sweetness.
- Pair with a glass of chilled orange juice or herbal tea.
Cooking Tips
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey depending on the tartness of your oranges.
- Stir continuously while cooking to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth consistency.
- Use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch as a cornstarch substitute if needed.
Ingredient Notes
- Fresh orange juice gives the jelly its citrus flavor and bright color.
- Honey adds sweetness; adjust the amount based on the oranges you use.
- Cornstarch helps the mixture thicken and set after chilling.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days, covered with plastic wrap to maintain freshness.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change upon thawing.
Why You Will Like This Recipe
- Simple: Only a few ingredients and minimal effort required.
- No-Bake: No oven required, making it useful for hot weather or quick dessert prep.
- Colorful: Its bright color and garnishes make it an eye-catching treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use store-bought orange juice instead of fresh?
Yes. Use orange juice with a flavor you enjoy. - Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?
Yes. Maple syrup, agave syrup, or another sweetener can be used. - Can I add other fruits to this jelly?
Yes. Add fruit segments like berries or kiwi for extra flavor and texture. - How long does it take for the jelly to set?
It usually sets in the refrigerator in 2-3 hours. - What if my jelly mixture turns lumpy?
Stir constantly while cooking. If lumps form, strain the mixture to smooth it out. - Can I use another type of citrus fruit?
Yes. Lemon or grapefruit juice can be used for a tart variation. - Is it possible to make the jelly sweeter after it is set?
You can drizzle extra honey or syrup over the jelly when serving to adjust sweetness. - Can I freeze the jelly to set it faster?
Freezing is not recommended as it can affect the texture, but you can chill it faster in the fridge. - How long can I store this jelly in the fridge?
It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days if properly covered.
Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- Prepare the Orange Juice: Squeeze 5-6 oranges to get 2½ cups (600ml) of fresh juice. Strain through a sieve for a smooth texture.
- Prepare the Mold: Lightly grease a 25cm x 15cm mold with oil to ensure easy removal of the jelly once set.
- Mix Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine orange juice, 2-3 tbsp honey, and whisk in 1/2 cup of cornstarch until smooth and lump-free.
- Cook the Mixture: Heat over medium, stirring constantly for 5-7 minutes until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
- Cool and Chill: Let the mixture cool for 10 minutes, then pour into the greased mold. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours until fully set.
- Serve: Loosen the jelly from the mold, invert onto a plate, and cut into squares or shapes. Garnish with coconut, cherries, or mint, and enjoy chilled!