Looking for a refreshing, light, and healthy dessert that’s quick to prepare? This Orange Jelly Dessert is made with fresh orange juice, honey, and cornstarch, offering a sweet and guilt-free treat without any baking. Its citrusy flavor is perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings without the heaviness of traditional desserts. Whether you’re in the mood for a light snack or serving a vibrant treat to guests, this simple yet elegant recipe is bound to impress.
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 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!
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 for a refreshing treat.
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.
Nutritional Benefits
- Vitamin C: The fresh orange juice is packed with vitamin C, supporting immune health.
- Low-Calorie: At just 120 calories per serving, this dessert is a light, guilt-free option.
- No Added Sugar: The honey provides natural sweetness, avoiding refined sugars.
Dietary Information
- Vegan-Friendly: Replace honey with maple syrup or agave for a vegan dessert.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free thanks to the cornstarch base.
- Dairy-Free: Contains no dairy, making it suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving Approx.)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 3mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 21g
- Vitamin C: 70% of daily value
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’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Only a few ingredients and minimal effort required.
- Healthy: Made with natural sweeteners and fresh orange juice, it’s a guilt-free dessert.
- No-Bake: No oven required, making it perfect for hot weather or quick dessert prep.
- Visually Appealing: Its bright color and garnishes make it an eye-catching treat.
Conclusion
This Orange Jelly Dessert is a light, refreshing, and nutritious option for any occasion. Made with just a few ingredients and no baking required, it’s easy to whip up and can be enjoyed guilt-free. Its vibrant citrus flavor and silky-smooth texture make it perfect for satisfying sweet cravings while staying healthy. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying it as a personal treat, this dessert is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use store-bought orange juice instead of fresh?
Yes, but ensure it’s 100% juice with no added sugar or preservatives for the best flavor. - Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?
Absolutely, maple syrup, agave syrup, or even sugar substitutes can be used. - Can I add other fruits to this jelly?
Yes, you can add fruit segments like berries or kiwi for added flavor and texture. - Can this dessert be made vegan?
Yes, just replace the honey with a vegan-friendly alternative like maple syrup. - 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, and if lumps form, you can 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 of this dessert. - Is it possible to make the jelly sweeter after it’s 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.