Homemade Apricot Jell-O
The Classic With A
DIY Twist!
Gelatin is derived from the collagen in animal bones and connective tissues. It has been used for centuries in various culinary applications. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that the revolutionary idea of creating a fruit-flavored dessert using gelatin was born.
The Birth of Jell-O:
The credit for popularizing gelatin-based desserts goes to Peter Cooper, who patented a process for creating powdered gelatin in 1845. Still, it wasn't until 1897 that the famous brand we know today, Jell-O, emerged on the scene. The brainchild of entrepreneur Pearle Wait, Jell-O initially struggled to find success. It was only after the brand was sold to the Genesee Pure Food Company and later to the Postum Company that Jell-O started its journey to becoming a household name.
Homemade Jell-O Recipe – Customize to Your Taste:
While commercial Jell-O is convenient, making your own at home can be a rewarding experience, especially if you want to alter the type of gelatin used. In this recipe, I use beef-based gelatin, but fish gelatin or even agar agar (a vegan, seaweed-based gelatin alternative) can be used. You can also use other fruit juices of your choice and even add fresh-cut fruit if you’d like. If you try the recipe below, leave a comment and let me know how you made it your own!
Homemade Apricot Jell-O
Makes about 4 servings
Ingredients
4 cups apricot fruit juice, divided (or alternative)
3 Tbsp beef gelatin (or alternative)
Method
Add 2 cups fruit juice to bowl and add gelatin, allow to bloom for 5 minutes
Whisk in remaining fruit juice
Pour mixture into saucepot
Heat over medium until boiling
Remove from heat and pour into 8”x8” baking dish
Refrigerate at least 4 hours
Cube and serve chilled