Bariatric Gelatin Jello Recipe
Introduction
This Bariatric Gelatin Jello recipe is a simple, protein-packed treat perfect for those on a bariatric or low-sugar diet. Using unflavored gelatin and collagen powder, it offers a healthy, tasty snack that’s easy to customize with your favorite sugar-free fruit juices.

Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin powder (grass-fed or beef gelatin)
- 1 cup sugar-free fruit juice (cranberry, lemon, or orange)
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 tablespoon collagen powder (optional, for more protein)
- 1 teaspoon natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for flavor)
Instructions
- Step 1: Pour 1 cup of cold water into a bowl and sprinkle the gelatin evenly over it. Let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom.
- Step 2: Heat the sugar-free fruit juice in a small pot until hot but not boiling, then remove from heat once it’s lightly steaming.
- Step 3: Add the bloomed gelatin to the warm juice and stir until fully dissolved.
- Step 4: Mix in the collagen powder (if using), natural sweetener, and lemon juice. Stir until the mixture is smooth and clear.
- Step 5: Pour the mixture into silicone molds or small cups and refrigerate for at least 3 hours until set.
- Step 6: Serve chilled, optionally garnished with fresh mint leaves or a spoonful of Greek yogurt for extra flavor.
Tips & Variations
- Use different sugar-free fruit juices to vary the flavor—try pomegranate or mixed berry for a twist.
- Add a few drops of vanilla extract for a subtle aroma and taste.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt after the gelatin has set.
- If you don’t have collagen powder, you can skip it; the gelatin still provides protein and structure.
Storage
Store the gelatin jello in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve. To re-soften if too firm, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use flavored gelatin instead of unflavored?
While flavored gelatin can be used, it often contains added sugars and artificial ingredients, which might not fit a bariatric-friendly diet. Unflavored gelatin gives you full control over the sweetness and flavor.
Is collagen powder necessary?
Collagen powder is optional but adds extra protein and supports joint and skin health. If you don’t have it on hand, the recipe will still work well with just the gelatin.
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Bariatric Gelatin Jello Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Diabetic
Description
This Bariatric Gelatin Jello Recipe is a protein-packed, low-calorie dessert perfect for bariatric patients or anyone looking for a healthy, sugar-free treat. Made with unflavored gelatin, sugar-free fruit juice, and optional collagen powder, this recipe offers a smooth and refreshing gelatin dessert that sets firmly after refrigeration.
Ingredients
Gelatin Base
- 2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin powder (grass-fed or beef gelatin)
- 1 cup cold water
Liquid and Flavoring
- 1 cup sugar-free fruit juice (cranberry, lemon, or orange)
- 1 teaspoon natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for flavor)
Additional Protein
- 1 tablespoon collagen powder (optional, for more protein)
Instructions
- Bloom the Gelatin: Pour 1 cup of cold water into a bowl and sprinkle the gelatin powder evenly over the surface. Allow it to sit undisturbed for 5 minutes so the gelatin can absorb the water and swell, forming a gel-like texture.
- Heat the Juice: In a small pot, gently heat the sugar-free fruit juice until it is hot and steaming but not boiling to preserve its flavor and nutrients. Remove the pot from the heat once the desired temperature is reached.
- Dissolve Gelatin: Add the bloomed gelatin mixture to the warm fruit juice and stir thoroughly until the gelatin has completely dissolved, creating a smooth liquid.
- Add Collagen and Flavorings: If using collagen powder, add it now along with the natural sweetener and the optional lemon juice. Stir continuously until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is clear and smooth.
- Set the Jello: Pour the gelatin mixture into silicone molds or small serving cups. Transfer them into the refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours or until the gelatin has fully set and firms up.
- Serve: Once set, serve the jello chilled. Optionally, garnish with fresh mint leaves or a spoonful of Greek yogurt for extra flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the juice is hot but not boiling to avoid damaging the gelatin’s setting ability.
- Using grass-fed or beef gelatin provides higher quality protein.
- Collagen powder is optional but adds additional protein, beneficial for bariatric diets.
- For a firmer jello, you can increase gelatin by 1 teaspoon.
- Use silicone molds for easy removal of the jello once set.
- This recipe is sugar-free and suitable for low-calorie or diabetic-friendly diets.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: bariatric gelatin, sugar-free jello, protein dessert, collagen jello, healthy gelatin recipe, diabetic dessert, low calorie snack

