Orange Jelly Dessert Recipe

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

  1. Prepare the Orange Juice:
    • Squeeze 5-6 oranges to get 2½ cups (600ml) of fresh juice. Strain through a sieve for a smooth texture.
  2. Prepare the Mold:
    • Lightly grease a 25cm x 15cm mold with oil to ensure easy removal of the jelly once set.
  3. 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.
  4. Cook the Mixture:
    • Heat over medium, stirring constantly for 5-7 minutes until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
  5. Cool and Chill:
    • Let the mixture cool for 10 minutes, then pour into the greased mold. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours until fully set.
  6. 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

  1. 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.
  2. Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?
    Absolutely, maple syrup, agave syrup, or even sugar substitutes can be used.
  3. Can I add other fruits to this jelly?
    Yes, you can add fruit segments like berries or kiwi for added flavor and texture.
  4. Can this dessert be made vegan?
    Yes, just replace the honey with a vegan-friendly alternative like maple syrup.
  5. How long does it take for the jelly to set?
    It usually sets in the refrigerator in 2-3 hours.
  6. What if my jelly mixture turns lumpy?
    Stir constantly while cooking, and if lumps form, you can strain the mixture to smooth it out.
  7. Can I use another type of citrus fruit?
    Yes, lemon or grapefruit juice can be used for a tart variation of this dessert.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. 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.