I’m a Certified Nutrition Coach, gluten-free recipe creator, and home detoxification expert with a focus on gut health. I show burned-out women with digestive issues how to take a proactive, holistic approach to healing by sharing nutrient-dense recipes, and sustainable lifestyle tips that are easy to implement in everyday life.
This healthy sugar-free jello recipe will transport you back to childhood summers in an instant. The combination of plain gelatin with Ultima electrolyte powder creates a sweet, attractive treat without any sugar, artificial sweeteners, synthetic flavors or dyes, making it a healthy dessert or snack. This is one homemade jello recipe that you and your kids can enjoy all summer.
Traditional Jell-O is often a go-to summer dessert for its fun texture and flavors, but it’s full of sugar, and artificial flavors that disrupt your gut microbiome. Not to mention, the synthetic dyes used to make them look appetizing are known to be harmful, especially to kids.
Sugar-Free Jell-O
Store-bought Sugar-Free Jell-O isn’t any better, as it’s sweetened with the chemical sweetener aspartame which has been linked to myriad health problems including liver and kidney damage. It’s best to avoid anything containing artificial sweeteners.
Dye-free, Sugar-free Jello
On the flip side, plain gelatin is a protein dense food with a variety of uses. When combined with Ultima electrolyte powder containing naturally sweet stevia, plant-based flavorings and colors, plain gelatin makes a delicious and healthy jello.
Preparation Tips for Perfect Jello
Make sure you stir the gelatin and electrolytes with a spoon. Whisking creates bubbles that will blemish the texture.
The electrolyte powder may not dissolve completely–that’s normal. Allow the residue to settle at the bottom of your mixing bowl before carefully pouring the liquid into your setting containers. This will produce a clearer jello without the grit.
Homemade Jello Ingredients
Water – You’ll need two cups, divided. One cold, and the other boiling.
Plain gelatin – This dye free jello recipe uses 2 packets. You can find it in the baking aisle at most grocery stores.
Ultima electrolytes – Use any flavor you prefer. I’ve made lemon jello and watermelon jello with this method. Because the electrolytes use plant-based food coloring, some flavors have vibrant color, and some don’t. You can experiment with different plant-based food colorings to make them look pretty, but it’s not necessary.
Thrive Market has a great assortment of Ultima flavors for a great price. [Enjoy 40% off your first box with my partner code if you’re interested.]
Optional
Plant-based food coloring – 8 drops of yellow is enough to make the lemon jello sunshine bright. You can find plant-based food coloring at health food stores such as Whole Foods.
Garnishes
Coconut whipped cream – 1 tablespoon on each serving makes for a lovely presentation when paired with berries and fresh mint.
Fresh berries
Mint leaves
The watermelon electrolyte powder has enough natural coloring already which results in this brilliant pink color.
How to Make Sugar-Free Jello with Electrolytes
Combine the gelatin and electrolytes with one cup of cold water in a small glass or stainless-steel mixing bowl. Stir gently until fully dissolved to avoid introducing air bubbles (about 1 minute).
Bring the remaining cup of water to a boil and then pour it over the gelatin mixture. Stir for about 30 seconds.
Carefully pour the mixture into your chosen molds or dishes. For a sheet of jello, use a rectangular baking dish; for individual servings, ramekins or coupe glasses work well. Refrigerate for approximately three hours, or until the jello is firm to the touch. Then garnish as desired.
Serving Suggestions
Once set, this versatile sugar-free jello can be dressed up for a party or served simply. For a festive look, cut the jello sheet into fun shapes with cookie cutters or slice into cubes.
Garnish with a dollop of coconut whipped cream, fresh berries, and mint leaves for a pop of texture and color.
Jello as a Colonoscopy Prep Food
I bet you weren’t expecting this curve ball, were you? 😉
If you’re 45 or older or suffer from digestive problems like Crohn’s Disease or ulcerative colitis, colonoscopies are going to be an important part of your healthcare routine. Unfortunately, colonoscopy prep food options are extremely limited (your gastroenterologist will give you a list of approved foods).
Lemon Jell-O is allowed, but as previously mentioned, not the best choice. That’s why I created this healthy sugar-free jello recipe using Ultima electrolyte powder. It’s an easy, tasty way to get protein and nutrients while preparing for your procedure.
If you’re in a similar boat or simply seeking a healthier light summer dessert option, this recipe is a winner.
Modifying for Colonoscopy Prep
With these simple modifications you should be able to enjoy this recipe before your procedure, but follow instructions from your gastroenterologist.
Follow the recipe above to make lemon jello (nothing red, pink or purple is allowed).
Don’t add any coloring, it needs to be as light and clear as possible
No garnishes
Summary
With the addition of electrolyte powder, this sugar-free jello recipe offers a unique twist on a classic, playful dessert that’s healthy enough to eat as a summer snack.
Whether you need a colonoscopy prep food, or an easy and attractive dessert that brings you back to your childhood, this homemade jello is a yummy treat.
Dive into summer with this homemade sugar-free jello recipe that’s perfect as a light dairy-free dessert or a nutritious snack. The secret ingredient in this jello recipe leaves it free from artificial sweeteners and synthetic dyes, making it a fantastic choice for a healthy treat.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cupswater, divided
2 packets plain gelatin
2 scoops Ultima electrolytes, any flavor (see note)
Combine: Pour the gelatin and electrolytes into 1 cup of cold water in a small glass or stainless-steel mixing bowl. Stir gently to avoid introducing air bubbles until fully dissolved (about 1 minute).
Boil: Bring the remaining cup of water to a boil and then pour it over the gelatin mixture. Stir for about 30 seconds.
Pour to Set: Carefully pour the mixture into your chosen molds or dishes. For a sheet of jello, use a rectangular baking dish; for individual servings, ramekins or coupe glasses work well. Refrigerate for approximately three hours, or until the jello is firm to the touch. Then garnish as desired.
Notes
Modifications for colonoscopy prep: Follow the recipe above to make lemon jello (no red, pink and purple colors). Don’t add any coloring, it needs to be as light and clear as possible. Omit any garnishes.
Give it a try and let me know your favorite flavor in the comments below!
Hi Geneva,
Currently that flavor doesn’t contain any red or purple colors so I presume so. However, double check the ingredients listed against the prep-instructions from your doctor to be sure. If you try it let me know how it turns out–sounds tasty!
Can I use pina colada ultima for colonoscopy prep?
Hi Geneva,
Currently that flavor doesn’t contain any red or purple colors so I presume so. However, double check the ingredients listed against the prep-instructions from your doctor to be sure. If you try it let me know how it turns out–sounds tasty!