Yes, there is a strawberry flavored Jell-O brand instant pudding that can be prepared and used just like the original Jell-O pudding. Strawberry Jell-O pudding has been around for many years as one of the classic Jell-O pudding flavors people know and love.
The History of Jell-O Pudding
Jell-O is one of the most iconic American brands, known for their popular gelatins and pudding desserts. Jell-O was invented in 1897 by Pearle Wait, a cough syrup manufacturer in New York. Wait formulated the first Jell-O using gelatin and fruit flavorings. The name “Jell-O” was coined by Wait’s wife, May, who thought the jiggly product should be named after a jelly-like dessert mentioned in a poem.
Wait sold his formula for Jell-O to Orator Francis Woodward in 1899 for just $450. In the early 1900s, Woodward formed The Genesee Pure Food Company to produce Jell-O, and began producing intriguing flavor combinations like celery, chocolate, and rose. By 1930, there were 15 Jell-O flavors including lemon, orange, raspberry and strawberry.
Jell-O became immensely successful during the Great Depression, likely due to its low cost and comforting qualities. Its popularity soared and it became a staple in American households. By the mid-1930s, sales reached over $9 million. Novel recipes incorporating Jell-O, like congealed salads, became popular across the country.
Pudding was first introduced by Jell-O to their product line in 1936. The instant pudding formula was invented by Mabel Sine in 1934. The convenience of instant pudding was a big selling point for busy home cooks. Early flavors were vanilla, chocolate, butterscotch and coconut. In 1938, Jell-O launched five new pudding flavors including their iconic vanilla, chocolate, and tapioca pudding.
The Introduction of Strawberry Jell-O Pudding
Strawberry Jell-O pudding first hit the market in 1948 as part of their expanding flavor collection along with pistachio, black cherry, apricot, and English toffee. It quickly became a beloved flavor thanks to its sweet strawberry taste and velvety texture. Throughout the 1950s and 60s, strawberry Jell-O pudding remained popular as a quick and easy dessert, especially among children and families. Vintage ads from the era tout it as “America’s favorite dessert treat!”
Ingredients in Strawberry Jell-O Pudding
The main ingredients found in Jell-O brand instant strawberry pudding are:
- Sugar
- Modified food starch (cornstarch)
- Strawberry flavoring
- Red 40 food coloring
- Natural and artificial flavors
- Salt
- Locust bean gum and guar gum
To prepare strawberry pudding, cold milk is whisked into the dry pudding mix. Then it requires 2-5 minutes of chilling time to fully thicken to a pudding-like consistency. The strawberry flavoring gives it a sweet fruity taste and the red food coloring provides its bright pink color.
Nutrition Facts
Here is the nutrition information for a typical 1/2 cup serving of prepared strawberry Jell-O pudding:
| Calories | 100 |
|---|---|
| Total Fat | 2g |
| Sodium | 270mg |
| Total Carbs | 20g |
| Protein | 1g |
As you can see, strawberry Jell-O pudding is high in carbohydrates and sugar due to its starchy base and added sweeteners. It also provides 12% of the daily recommended amount of calcium. It lacks protein and other nutrients, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat.
How to Make Strawberry Jell-O Pudding
Making Jell-O brand strawberry pudding is quick and easy. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Empty the dry pudding mix into a medium bowl.
- Whisk in 2 cups of cold milk until thoroughly combined.
- Let mixture rest for 2 minutes to thicken.
- For a creamier pudding, use 4 cups of milk instead.
- To make layered parfaits, allow the pudding to fully set in the fridge before layering it.
- Garnish with whipped cream, fresh strawberries or crushed cookies if desired.
- Enjoy right away or refrigerate until ready to eat.
The pudding will have a thick, creamy texture when finished and is now ready to enjoy! The basic ratio is 2 cups milk to a 3.4 ounce package of dry mix. Feel free to adjust the amount of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
Tips for Perfect Strawberry Jell-O Pudding
- Use cold milk – this helps the pudding set up properly.
- Whisk vigorously – this prevents clumping of the dry mix.
- Chill for at least 2 minutes – this allows the pudding to fully thicken before eating.
- Use a clear bowl – the vibrant pink color looks lovely in clear dishware.
- Make it dairy-free – substitute almond, soy or coconut milk for regular milk.
- Play with textures – fold in fresh strawberries, yogurt, granola or whipped cream for extra flavor and texture.
What to Make with Strawberry Jell-O Pudding
Strawberry Jell-O pudding is endlessly versatile and can be used in all types of sweet and savory recipes. Here are some delicious ways to use up strawberry pudding:
No-Bake Desserts
- Pudding Pops – Pour into molds and freeze on popsicle sticks for a nostalgic treat.
- Pudding Pie – Mix into a graham cracker pie crust for a quick no-bake pie.
- Parfaits – Layer pudding with granola, whipped cream and fruit in a glass.
- Dirt Cups – Fold pudding into a chocolate cookie crust and top with gummy worms.
Baked Goods
- Pudding Cake – Swirl pudding into boxed cake mix before baking for extra moisture.
- Filled Cupcakes – Inject pudding into baked cupcakes with a syringe for filled cupcakes.
- Pudding Cookies – Mix pudding into cookie dough or frost baked cookies with creamy pudding frosting.
- Pudding Pie – Make a from-scratch pie with a strawberry pudding filling.
Snacks
- Fruit Dip – Serve sweet strawberry pudding as a dip for fresh fruit.
- Chia Pudding – Fold strawberry pudding into chia seeds for a nutrient-packed snack.
- Yogurt Parfaits – Layer yogurt, granola and strawberry pudding for an easy breakfast parfait.
- Stuffed Crepes – Fill crepes with creamy pudding and fresh strawberry slices.
Meals
- Chicken Salad – Mix pudding into chicken salad in place of mayo for extra creaminess.
- Fruit Pizza – Top a sugar cookie crust with strawberry pudding and fresh fruit.
- Lasagna – Spoonfuls of pudding between lasagna layers adds a creaminess.
- Potatoes – Fold pudding into mashed potatoes for tangy strawberry flavor.
As you can see, strawberry Jell-O pudding is a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes! It adds moisture, flavor and fun color to all types of recipes.
Where to Buy Strawberry Jell-O Pudding
Strawberry Jell-O brand instant pudding can be found at most major grocery stores and mass retailers. Here are some places you can find it:
- Grocery stores – Look in the baking aisle or pudding section.
- Walmart
- Target
- Amazon
- Convenience stores
- Dollar stores
- Warehouse clubs like Costco or Sam’s Club
Strawberry Jell-O pudding is widely available at stores across the country. It typically comes in convenient multi-pack boxes to stock up.
Some stores may also carry off-brands or store brands of strawberry pudding mix at lower price points. However, for the classic experience, look for the familiar red Jell-O box.
If you’re having trouble finding it near you, ordering some online is always an easy option. Amazon carries a wide selection of Jell-O products that ship right to your door.
How Much Does it Cost?
Strawberry Jell-O pudding is relatively affordable, especially compared to homemade or gourmet pudding options.
| Size | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Single 3.4 oz box | $1 |
| 2 pack | $2 |
| 6 pack | $5 |
| 12 pack | $8 – $10 |
Buying larger bulk packs typically provides the best value per ounce. Name brand Jell-O pudding costs a bit more than generic store brand options. Coupons or sales can also help cut down on the price.
Conclusion
Strawberry Jell-O brand instant pudding delivers the classic strawberry flavor and smooth, creamy texture generations have come to love. It’s simple to whip up and fun to incorporate into all types of recipes, both sweet and savory. Strawberry pudding has stood the test of time as a convenient, budget-friendly dessert option. The next time you crave a little pink nostalgia in a bowl, strawberry Jell-O pudding delivers on quick, fruity flavor.