
Start with a 9x13-inch glass baking dish, although any heat-resistant dish of similar size will work.
Pour the raspberry Jell-O powder into the dish and carefully add the 2 cups of boiling water. Stir thoroughly until the powder is completely dissolved and no granules remain.
Stir in the applesauce until it is evenly incorporated throughout the Jell-O mixture.
I prefer using unsweetened applesauce because the dessert already gets plenty of sweetness from the Jell-O, raspberries, and toppings. However, sweetened applesauce can be used if that's what you have on hand.
Spread the frozen raspberries evenly across the dish. Using a spoon, gently press and distribute the berries so they are spread throughout the mixture rather than sitting in large clumps.
The frozen berries will help cool the mixture while adding delicious texture and flavor to every bite.
Cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator for about 2 hours, or until the dessert is completely set.
While the dessert chills, prepare the whipped cream topping
In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks begin to form.
Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
For the best results, keep the whipped cream refrigerated until you're ready to serve.