Lemon Raspberry Gelatin

Don't let the drab word "gelatin" put you off. This wonderful dessert is fresh, bright, and 100 percent tastier than boxed gelatin desserts. You can double the gelatin if you want a dessert that can be cut into cubes, but try this tender version first. Your toddler will still have fun pushing it around — and that will keep her busy in her high chair so you can have a few minutes of mealtime peace.

Hands-On Time: 10 minutes
Ready In: 3 hours, 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

2/3 cup sugar
1 1/2 (1/4-ounce) envelopes gelatin (a scant 1 1/2 tablespoons)
4 large lemons
1/2 pint fresh raspberries
Sweetened whipped cream as topping (optional)

1. Bring 1 3/4 cups water and sugar to a boil in medium saucepan; boil until sugar is dissolved, about 1 minute. Remove from heat.
2. Put another 1/4 cup water into small bowl. Sprinkle gelatin evenly over water and let stand 5 minutes.
3. Juice lemons until you have 2/3 cup juice. Strain juice through fine sieve into medium bowl. Pour sugar water into bowl, then stir in gelatin mixture until completely dissolved. Pour lemon mixture into a serving dish or four individual glasses and sprinkle berries evenly over top. Chill until set (at least 3 hours). Serve with whipped cream, if you wish.