When it comes to desserts, we often think of rich and decadent treats like cakes and chocolates. But sometimes, a light and refreshing treat is just what we need to cool down on a warm day or add a pop of color to our tablescape. Enter the world of gelatin desserts! These wiggly wonders are not only fun to eat, but they’re also incredibly versatile and can be flavored and colored in countless ways.
In this article, we’ll be diving into 20 refreshing gelatin dessert recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. From fruity flavors like strawberry and pineapple to creamy concoctions like orange creamsicle and coconut cream, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a fan of bright colors and bold flavors or prefer more subtle and sophisticated desserts, we’ve got you covered with these 20 gelatin dessert recipes that are sure to be the perfect treat for any occasion.
Rainbow Jello Layered Dessert
Elevate your dessert game with this vibrant and colorful treat! This layered masterpiece is perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to potlucks.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lemon-flavored gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup fruit juice (grape, orange, and lemon)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Food coloring (red, yellow, green, blue, and purple)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve gelatin in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until gelatin is fully dissolved.
3. In a separate bowl, mix sugar and fruit juice until sugar is dissolved.
4. Add food coloring to the sugar mixture to create a rainbow effect (red, yellow, green, blue, and purple).
5. Layer the colored jello mixture in a 9×13-inch pan, starting with red at the bottom, followed by yellow, green, blue, and ending with purple on top.
6. Chill in refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight.
7. Just before serving, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form and spread on top of the jello dessert.
Cooking Time: None
Strawberry Pretzel Salad
A sweet and salty twist on the classic green salad, this Strawberry Pretzel Salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1/2 cup crushed pretzels
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens.
2. Top with sliced strawberries.
3. Sprinkle crushed pretzels and crumbled feta cheese over the salad.
4. Add chopped pecans for crunch.
5. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Orange Creamsicle Jello
Get ready to transport your taste buds to a sunny day with this refreshing and flavorful Orange Creamsicle Jello recipe. This sweet treat is perfect for hot summer days, potlucks, or as a unique dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened orange Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the orange Jell-O in the boiling water.
2. Add the cold water and stir until the mixture is fully dissolved.
3. Stir in the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
Cooking Time: None
Servings: 6-8 servings
Blueberry Lemon Gelatin Parfait
Brighten up your day with this refreshing and fruity dessert! This Blueberry Lemon Gelatin Parfait combines the sweetness of blueberries with the tanginess of lemon in a light and airy gelatin treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Whipped cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, remaining 1 3/4 cups of water, and softened gelatin. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture reaches 180°F (82°C).
3. Remove from heat and stir in the blueberries and lemon juice.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch dish or individual serving cups. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
5. Serve chilled, topped with whipped cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Pina Colada Jello Shots
Elevate your party game with these creamy and refreshing Pina Colada Jello Shots. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you want to add a touch of tropical fun!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1 cup coconut cream
– 1/2 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1 tablespoon rum extract (or to taste)
– 1 envelope unsweetened orange Jell-O
– 1 cup boiling water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the Jell-O in the boiling water. Let it cool slightly.
2. Add the pineapple juice, coconut cream, and simple syrup to the cooled Jell-O mixture. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the rum extract (if using). Mix well.
4. Pour the mixture into small shot glasses or molds.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours or overnight until set.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None
Lime Jello with Pineapple
Brighten up your day with this simple and sweet treat that combines the tanginess of lime jello with the sweetness of pineapple. This refreshing dessert is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lime Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon grated lime zest
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, dissolve the jello in boiling water.
2. Add the cold water and stir until the mixture is well combined.
3. Stir in the crushed pineapple, sugar, and lime zest.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch pan or individual serving cups.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None
Cherry Cheesecake Jello
Elevate your dessert game with this unique and delicious Cherry Cheesecake Jello recipe! This refreshing treat combines the sweetness of cherry jello, the creaminess of cheesecake, and the crunch of whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cherry Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Fresh cherries and whipped cream for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until completely dissolved.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
4. Fold in whipping cream and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the jello mixture into a 9×13 inch pan or individual cups.
6. Top with the cheesecake mixture and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
7. Garnish with fresh cherries and whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Tropical Mango Gelatin Squares
These colorful squares are perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a burst of tropical flavor. With the sweetness of mango and the tanginess of pineapple, these gelatin treats will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened orange gelatin
– 1/2 cup cold water
– 1/4 cup canned mango puree
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve gelatin in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until gelatin is fully dissolved.
3. Stir in mango puree, pineapple juice, honey, and salt.
4. Pour mixture into an 8-inch square dish or mold.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
6. Cut into squares and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just refrigeration time.
Raspberry Champagne Jello
Add a touch of elegance to your gatherings with this refreshing and flavorful Raspberry Champagne Jello recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened raspberry jello
– 1 cup cold champagne or sparkling wine
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped until stiff peaks form
– Fresh raspberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the raspberry jello in the boiling water.
2. Add the cold champagne and stir until the jello is fully dissolved.
3. Stir in the sugar until it’s completely dissolved.
4. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large mold.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
6. Top with whipped cream and garnish with fresh raspberries.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-cook recipe!
Enjoy your delicious Raspberry Champagne Jello!
Peach Cobbler Gelatin Dessert
Summer’s sweetness meets gelatinous delight! This refreshing dessert combines the flavors of ripe peaches and a hint of cinnamon with a light, fruity gelatin.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup peach puree (canned or fresh)
– 1 envelope unsweetened gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
– Fresh peach slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine peach puree, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add bloomed gelatin mixture to the peach mixture and stir until dissolved.
4. Pour mixture into individual serving cups or a large mold.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
6. Top with whipped cream and garnish with fresh peach slices, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (refrigeration only)
Watermelon Jello Slices
This sweet and tangy dessert is perfect for hot summer days or any occasion when you need a light and refreshing treat. With its vibrant green color and juicy watermelon flavor, these jello slices are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup watermelon puree or juice
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1 cup of boiling water and let it sit for 2 minutes to soften.
2. Add the cold water and stir until the gelatin is fully dissolved.
3. Add the watermelon puree or juice, sugar, and food coloring (if using). Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch pan or a mold of your choice.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
6. Cut into slices and serve.
Cooking Time: 3 hours or overnight
Lemon-Lime Jello with Fresh Berries
Brighten up your dessert menu with this refreshing and flavorful Lemon-Lime Jello infused with sweet and tangy fresh berries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lemon-lime jello
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Optional: whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the jello in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until completely dissolved.
3. Refrigerate until chilled and set, about 3 hours.
4. Just before serving, gently fold in fresh berries to prevent crushing.
5. Serve the jello with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
Cooking Time: None (jello sets in refrigerator)
Coconut Cream Jello Pudding
This creamy pudding is a tropical twist on classic jello, infused with the rich flavor of coconut and the sweetness of whipped cream. Perfect for warm weather or as a unique dessert for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened coconut gelatin
– 1 cup cold coconut milk
– 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it soften for 5 minutes.
2. Combine the softened gelatin, coconut milk, heavy whipping cream, sugar, and vanilla extract in a medium saucepan. Whisk until dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate until set, at least 3 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Black Forest Jello Parfait
A twist on the classic dessert, this Black Forest Jello Parfait combines the flavors of chocolate and cherry with a layer of whipped cream and crushed nuts. Perfect for potlucks or parties!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened black cherry Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 8 oz heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup crushed walnuts or pecans
– 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until dissolved. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Whip heavy cream with sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Layer cooled Jell-O mixture, whipped cream, chopped cherries, and crushed nuts in small glasses or parfait dishes.
5. Top with chocolate shavings, if desired.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Just layer and chill.
Pistachio Jello Salad
This creamy and vibrant salad is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or casual gatherings. The pistachio flavor adds a delightful nutty twist to the classic jello mold.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened pistachio Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add the cold water and stir until the Jell-O is fully dissolved.
3. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sugar, and salt until stiff peaks form.
5. Fold the whipped cream into the cooled Jell-O mixture.
6. Stir in chopped parsley.
7. Pour the salad into individual molds or a large mold.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 3 hours + refrigeration
Grape Jello with Cream Cheese Topping
A refreshing and tangy dessert perfect for any occasion! This Grape Jello with Cream Cheese Topping recipe is an easy-to-make treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package grape jello
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 cup cold water
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the grape jello in the boiling water.
2. Add the cold water and stir until the jello is fully dissolved.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch pan or individual serving cups.
4. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
5. For the cream cheese topping, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
6. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
7. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled grape jello.
8. Refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (or overnight)
Serves: 6-8
Key Lime Pie Jello Dessert
A refreshing twist on traditional jello desserts, this Key Lime Pie Jello Dessert combines the tanginess of key lime with the classic sweetness of vanilla pudding.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lime Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup Key Lime juice
– 1/2 cup cold milk
– 1 tablespoon vanilla pudding mix
– Whipped cream and chopped pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the lime Jell-O in the boiling water.
2. Add the cold water and stir until dissolved.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar and Key Lime juice until well combined.
4. Add the milk and vanilla pudding mix to the sugar mixture and whisk until smooth.
5. Pour the jello mixture into a 9×13 inch dish and refrigerate until set (about 3-4 hours).
6. Top with whipped cream and chopped pecans, if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Strawberry Banana Gelatin Mold
Transform fresh strawberries and bananas into a refreshing dessert perfect for warm weather. This gelatin mold is an easy and impressive treat to serve at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened strawberry gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the gelatin in boiling water.
2. Add the cold water, sugar, and lemon juice to the gelatin mixture; stir until dissolved.
3. Stir in the banana slices.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch pan or a mold of your choice.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
6. Just before serving, arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the gelatin mixture.
Cooking Time: None needed! This dessert is chilled in the refrigerator.
Vanilla Custard Jello Cups
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a hot summer day or as a sweet surprise for a party. With the combination of creamy vanilla custard and wiggly jello, you’ll be hooked from the first spoonful!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lemon Jello
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, cornstarch, and 1/4 cup heavy cream. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until mixture comes to a boil.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Add gelatin mixture to the custard mixture and stir until dissolved.
5. Pour into small cups or ramekins. Refrigerate for 3-4 hours or until set.
6. Garnish with whipped cream and chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spiced Apple Cider Jello
This delightful dessert combines the flavors of autumn with a refreshing twist on traditional jello. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home, this spiced apple cider jello is sure to please.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened apple flavor jello
• 1 cup apple cider
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
• Whipped cream and chopped walnuts for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve jello in boiling water.
2. Add apple cider, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to the bowl. Stir until dissolved.
3. Pour mixture into individual cups or a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
5. Serve chilled with whipped cream and chopped walnuts if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed!
Enjoy your Spiced Apple Cider Jello!
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of sweet treats with these 20 refreshing gelatin dessert recipes! From classic flavors like strawberry and orange creamsicle, to unique twists like pina colada jello shots and tropical mango gelatin squares, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover how to make layered desserts, parfaits, salads, and more using a variety of fruits, cheeses, and cream-based ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert or a show-stopping centerpiece, these recipes are sure to delight your friends and family. So go ahead, get creative, and let the gelatin games begin!