Red Hot Applesauce Jell-O: A Spicy-Sweet Nostalgic Treat

Red Hot Applesauce Jell-O might sound like an unusual combination, but trust me, it’s a delightful surprise! This recipe takes the classic comfort of applesauce and gives it a warm, spicy kick from Red Hots candies. The result is a wobbly, jiggly dessert that’s both nostalgic and surprisingly sophisticated. It’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, or simply a fun twist on an everyday treat. This recipe is very easy to make and guaranteed to impress your friends and family with unique and delicious flavour.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Unique Flavor:** The combination of sweet applesauce and the spicy cinnamon flavor of Red Hots is truly unique and irresistible. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite!
* **Easy to Make:** This recipe requires minimal effort and ingredients, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
* **Nostalgic Appeal:** Jell-O desserts have a timeless appeal, and this recipe adds a modern twist to a classic favorite, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
* **Versatile:** You can customize this recipe to your liking by adjusting the amount of Red Hots or adding other spices like nutmeg or cloves.
* **Crowd-Pleasing:** This Red Hot Applesauce Jell-O is always a hit at parties and potlucks. It’s a conversation starter and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients You’ll Need

* **6 cups Applesauce:** Use your favorite unsweetened applesauce, homemade or store-bought. Unsweetened applesauce is important, as the Red Hots will add plenty of sweetness.
* **1 cup Red Hot candies:** These spicy cinnamon candies are the key to the unique flavor of this Jell-O. You can find them in most grocery stores.
* **6 ounces (2 small boxes) Gelatin:** Unflavored gelatin is essential for setting the Jell-O. Make sure to use the amount specified in the recipe.
* **1 cup cold water:** This is used to bloom the gelatin.
* **Optional: Whipped cream or Cool Whip, for serving.** A dollop of whipped cream adds a touch of elegance and complements the spicy-sweet flavor.

Equipment You’ll Need

* **Large saucepan:** For melting the Red Hots and combining the ingredients.
* **Measuring cups and spoons:** For accurate measurements.
* **Whisk:** For stirring and dissolving the gelatin.
* **9×13 inch pan (or individual serving dishes):** For setting the Jell-O. Glass or ceramic works best.
* **Spatula:** For scraping down the sides of the pan.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own Red Hot Applesauce Jell-O masterpiece:

**Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin**

In a medium bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over the cold water. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes. This process, known as blooming, softens the gelatin granules and prepares them to dissolve properly.

**Step 2: Melt the Red Hots**

Pour the applesauce into a large saucepan. Add the Red Hot candies. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the Red Hots are completely melted and dissolved. This may take 10-15 minutes. Be patient and continue stirring to prevent sticking and burning.

**Step 3: Dissolve the Gelatin**

Once the Red Hots are completely melted, remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the bloomed gelatin to the hot applesauce mixture. Whisk constantly until the gelatin is completely dissolved. Make sure there are no lumps of gelatin remaining. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth and evenly set Jell-O.

**Step 4: Pour into Pan and Chill**

Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch pan (or individual serving dishes). Cover the pan with plastic wrap, pressing it gently against the surface of the Jell-O to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until the Jell-O is firm and set. The longer you chill it, the firmer it will be.

**Step 5: Serve and Enjoy**

Once the Jell-O is set, cut it into squares and serve. Top with whipped cream or Cool Whip, if desired. Enjoy the unique and delicious flavor of your Red Hot Applesauce Jell-O!

Tips for Success

* **Use unsweetened applesauce:** The Red Hots will add plenty of sweetness, so using unsweetened applesauce will prevent the Jell-O from being overly sweet.
* **Stir constantly while melting the Red Hots:** This will prevent the candies from sticking to the bottom of the pan and burning.
* **Make sure the gelatin is completely dissolved:** Undissolved gelatin will result in a lumpy Jell-O.
* **Chill the Jell-O for at least 4 hours:** This will ensure that it is firm and set properly.
* **Press plastic wrap against the surface of the Jell-O:** This will prevent a skin from forming on top.
* **Customize the flavor:** Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the applesauce for an extra layer of flavor. You can also adjust the amount of Red Hots to control the spiciness.

Variations and Add-Ins

* **Cinnamon Sticks:** Add a cinnamon stick while melting the red hots to infuse even more cinnamon flavour.
* **Apple Pie Spice:** Add a teaspoon of apple pie spice for a warmer, more complex flavor.
* **Chopped Nuts:** Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the Jell-O before chilling for added texture.
* **Cranberry Sauce:** Swirl in a layer of cranberry sauce for a festive holiday treat.
* **Fruit Pieces:** Add chopped apples, pears, or cranberries to the Jell-O before chilling for a fruity twist.
* **Layered Jell-O:** Create a layered Jell-O dessert by alternating layers of Red Hot Applesauce Jell-O with layers of plain applesauce Jell-O. This will create a visually stunning and delicious treat.
* **Sugar-Free Option:** Use sugar-free applesauce and sugar-free Red Hots (if available) to create a healthier version of this recipe.
* **Individual Jell-O Molds:** Pour the mixture into individual Jell-O molds for a more elegant presentation.

Serving Suggestions

* **Holiday Dessert:** Red Hot Applesauce Jell-O is a perfect addition to your holiday dessert table. Its festive color and unique flavor make it a standout dish.
* **Potluck Favorite:** This recipe is always a hit at potlucks. It’s easy to transport and sure to impress your friends and neighbors.
* **After-School Snack:** Cut the Jell-O into fun shapes using cookie cutters for a fun and healthy after-school snack.
* **Party Treat:** Serve Red Hot Applesauce Jell-O at your next party. It’s a fun and unexpected treat that will delight your guests.
* **Simple Dessert:** Enjoy a square of Red Hot Applesauce Jell-O as a simple and satisfying dessert after dinner.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Red Hot Applesauce Jell-O is a great make-ahead dessert. You can prepare it up to 2-3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to keep it covered with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover Red Hot Applesauce Jell-O in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The Jell-O may become slightly softer over time, but it will still be delicious.

Recipe Notes

* **Adjust sweetness:** If you prefer a less sweet Jell-O, you can reduce the amount of Red Hots candies. Start with ¾ cup and taste before adding more.
* **Control Spiciness:** For a milder flavor, use less Red Hots candies or add a small amount of ground cinnamon instead.
* **Ensure Even Distribution:** When adding fruit or nuts, gently press them into the Jell-O mixture to ensure even distribution.
* **Serving Size:** This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
* **Vegan Adaptation:** While gelatin is derived from animal collagen, there are vegan alternatives. Agar-agar can be used to achieve a similar jiggly texture in this recipe.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: Approximately 150-200 per serving (depending on the specific ingredients used)
* Fat: 0g
* Saturated Fat: 0g
* Cholesterol: 0mg
* Sodium: Varies depending on the brand of applesauce used
* Carbohydrates: Varies depending on the amount of Red Hots and type of applesauce used
* Sugar: Varies depending on the amount of Red Hots and type of applesauce used
* Protein: 5g

Red Hot Applesauce Jell-O Recipe

**Yields:** 12 servings
**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Chill Time:** 4 hours (or overnight)

**Ingredients:**

* 6 cups unsweetened applesauce
* 1 cup Red Hot candies
* 6 ounces (2 small boxes) unflavored gelatin
* 1 cup cold water
* Optional: Whipped cream or Cool Whip, for serving

**Instructions:**

1. **Bloom the Gelatin:** In a medium bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over the cold water. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes.
2. **Melt the Red Hots:** Pour the applesauce into a large saucepan. Add the Red Hot candies. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the Red Hots are completely melted and dissolved.
3. **Dissolve the Gelatin:** Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the bloomed gelatin to the hot applesauce mixture. Whisk constantly until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
4. **Pour into Pan and Chill:** Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch pan (or individual serving dishes). Cover the pan with plastic wrap, pressing it gently against the surface of the Jell-O. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until the Jell-O is firm and set.
5. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once the Jell-O is set, cut it into squares and serve. Top with whipped cream or Cool Whip, if desired.

Enjoy this unique and delicious Red Hot Applesauce Jell-O! It’s a delightful treat that’s sure to become a new family favorite. Let me know in the comments how you like it!