Coconut Pineapple Jello Tray

Let’s be real: sometimes you just need a fun, fruity dessert without a ton of fuss. If you’re tired of complicated recipes with endless ingredients, this Coconut Pineapple Jello Tray is your answer. It’s a simple, refreshing treat that’s perfect for potlucks, parties, or just a little something sweet. I’m not going to lie and say this is health food, but we can absolutely make a lighter version of this classic coconut pineapple jello tray without sacrificing taste. Ready to dive in?

Prep Time	20	Cook Time	10
Servings	12	Calories	195 kcal

Ingredients

• 1 (3 ounce) package pineapple flavored gelatin
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold pineapple juice
• 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained
• 1 (13.5 ounce) can coconut milk, full-fat
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut, sweetened
• 1/4 cup chopped macadamia nuts (optional)
• 1/4 cup maraschino cherries, halved (optional)
• Cooking spray

Recommended Tools You’ll Need

Tool	Why You Need It
9×13 inch baking dish	The perfect size for creating a nice, even jello tray.
Large mixing bowl	Essential for dissolving the gelatin and mixing the ingredients.
Whisk	To combine the coconut milk and marshmallows smoothly.
Measuring cups and spoons	For accurate ingredient measurements.

Calorie Reality

At 195 calories per serving, this dessert fits into most calorie budgets as a treat. Remember, sustainable weight management is about overall eating habits, not obsessing over a single dessert. Consider it a mindful indulgence.

About Your Daily Budget: Your TDEE (Total Daily Energy Expenditure) is the number of calories you burn each day. If you eat more than your TDEE, you’ll gain weight. If you eat less, you’ll lose weight. This dessert should be factored into your daily intake if you’re watching your weight.

Diet Compatibility

Compatible with: Gluten-Free (check gelatin ingredients), Pescatarian

Not compatible with: Vegan, Dairy-Free, Keto

Warning: Mixing Diets: This recipe contains a fair amount of sugar and fat from the marshmallows, pineapple, and coconut milk. While occasional treats are fine, regularly consuming high amounts of sugar and fat can contribute to weight gain. Especially if you’re eating far higher than your TDEE. Overconsumption of glucose leads to lipogenesis: the conversion of excess carbohydrates into fat. Be mindful of portion sizes and frequency.

Expert Tips

For a more vibrant flavor, try using fresh pineapple juice. Don’t add the coconut until the jello is nearly set or it will sink to the bottom. For weight loss, pre-portion the jello into individual servings to avoid overeating. This helps with calorie control.

Macros Breakdown

This recipe is relatively high in carbs and fat, with a small amount of protein. The carbs come from the gelatin, pineapple, and marshmallows, while the fat comes from the coconut milk. To balance your macros, consider pairing it with a protein-rich meal. Remember, fat intake is not inherently bad! Lipogenesis only occurs when there is excess glucose and energy available.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber
195 kcal	2g	24g	11g	1g