This Summer Berry Jelly Recipe is the perfect light and refreshing dessert for warm-weather gatherings. Made with a colorful mix of strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, and cherries suspended in a fruity jelly, this elegant treat is as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a family barbecue or looking for a make-ahead dessert, this summer berry jelly is guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Light, refreshing, and perfect for hot days
- Packed with juicy seasonal berries
- Beautiful presentation for entertaining
- Easy to prepare ahead of time
- Family-friendly and naturally fruity
- Delicious served with vanilla ice cream
- Great centerpiece dessert for summer celebrations
Ingredients
- 14 platinum-strength gelatine leaves
- 3 cups (750ml) apple & raspberry cordial concentrate
- 250g strawberries, hulled and quartered
- 50g raspberries
- 50g blueberries
- 50g blackberries
- 50g pitted cherries
- Extra strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, and cherries for serving
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving
- 4 cups (1L) water
Instructions
- Place the gelatine leaves in a medium bowl filled with cold water. Leave for 5 minutes until softened.
- Combine the apple and raspberry cordial concentrate with 4 cups of water in a large jug.
- Pour 1½ cups (375ml) of the cordial mixture into a small saucepan and heat over high heat until hot but not boiling.
- Squeeze the excess water from the softened gelatine leaves and add them to the hot cordial mixture. Stir until completely dissolved.
- Pour the dissolved gelatine mixture back into the jug and stir thoroughly.
- Pour all but 300ml of the mixture into a 23cm bundt pan.
- Cover and reserve the remaining 300ml jelly mixture at room temperature.
- Refrigerate the bundt pan for approximately 2½ hours until the jelly is almost set but still slightly soft.
- Gently add the strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, and cherries into the jelly, pushing them down evenly throughout the mixture.
- Carefully pour the reserved jelly mixture over the fruit to create a smooth, flat base.
- Refrigerate the Summer Berry Jelly Recipe for at least 6 hours or overnight until fully set.
- To unmould, fill a large bowl with hot (not boiling) water and dip the base of the pan into the water for about 30 seconds.
- Place a serving plate over the pan and carefully invert to release the jelly.
- Garnish with extra fresh berries and serve with scoops of vanilla ice cream.
Tips & Tricks
- Use ripe, fresh berries for the best flavor and color.
- Ensure the jelly is partially set before adding the fruit to prevent berries from floating.
- Avoid boiling the gelatine mixture, as excessive heat can weaken its setting ability.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice to the cordial mixture.
- Silicone molds can make unmoulding easier.
- Chill serving plates beforehand to keep the jelly firm during serving.
Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Chilling Time: 8½ hours
- Total Time: Approximately 9 hours
- Yield: 10–12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: Australian-Inspired
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: Vegetarian-friendly if using vegetarian gelatine alternative
Notes
- Frozen berries may be used, but thaw and drain them thoroughly first.
- Serve with whipped cream instead of ice cream if preferred.
- This dessert is ideal for summer parties, picnics, and holiday gatherings.
- The jelly can be prepared a day in advance.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 185
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 3g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 28g
FAQ
Can I make Summer Berry Jelly in advance?
Yes. It can be prepared up to 24 hours before serving and stored in the refrigerator.
Why are my berries floating to the top?
The jelly wasn’t set enough before the fruit was added. Allow it to become partially firm first.
Can I use different fruits?
Absolutely. Peaches, grapes, kiwi, mango, and other berries work well.
How long does berry jelly take to set?
Depending on your refrigerator temperature, allow at least 6–8 hours for a firm set.
Can I make this recipe without a bundt pan?
Yes. Any large jelly mold, loaf pan, or decorative mold can be used.
Is this recipe suitable for parties?
Yes. Its attractive presentation and make-ahead convenience make it ideal for entertaining.
Storage
Refrigerator
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of both the jelly and berries may change after thawing.
Reheating
No reheating is required. Serve chilled directly from the refrigerator.
Similar Recipes
Summer Berry Jelly Recipe
Ingredients
- 14 platinum-strength gelatine leaves
- 3 cups 750ml apple & raspberry cordial concentrate
- 250 g strawberries hulled and quartered
- 50 g raspberries
- 50 g blueberries
- 50 g blackberries
- 50 g pitted cherries
- Extra strawberries raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, and cherries for serving
- Vanilla ice cream for serving
- 4 cups 1L water
Notes
- Frozen berries may be used, but thaw and drain them thoroughly first.
- Serve with whipped cream instead of ice cream if preferred.
- This dessert is ideal for summer parties, picnics, and holiday gatherings.
- The jelly can be prepared a day in advance.
Conclusion
This Summer Berry Jelly Recipe is a stunning dessert that combines vibrant seasonal berries with a refreshing fruity jelly. Easy to prepare ahead of time and beautiful enough for special occasions, it’s a simple yet impressive treat that everyone will love. Serve it with fresh berries and creamy vanilla ice cream for a memorable summer dessert experience.