As the weather heats up, our sweet tooth tends to crave lighter, cooler treats that can withstand the summer sun. What better way to satisfy this craving than with a deliciously creamy Jello dessert? In this article, we’ll explore 20 refreshing and innovative Jello recipe ideas that are perfect for warm-weather gatherings or just a quick treat after a long day at the beach.
From fruity and festive to rich and decadent, these recipes will show you how to take Jello from a humble party favor to a star of the dessert table. With a mix of classic and modern flavors, textures, and presentation styles, you’re sure to find something that suits your summer style.
Stay tuned for our collection of creamy Jello desserts that are sure to be a hit at your next BBQ or potluck!
Rainbow Jello Cubes with Coconut Milk
Brighten up your snack time with these colorful and refreshing cubes, infused with the creamy richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened strawberry Jell-O
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened orange Jell-O
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lemon Jell-O
– 1 cup cold coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the strawberry Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add the orange and lemon Jell-O to the bowl and stir until dissolved.
3. Stir in the coconut milk and sugar until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch pan or individual molds.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
6. Cut into cubes and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 3 hours refrigeration
Strawberry Jello Cheesecake Bars
Elevate your dessert game with these sweet and tangy Strawberry Jello Cheesecake Bars, perfect for springtime gatherings or summer potlucks.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup strawberry jello, dissolved in 1 cup boiling water
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Fresh strawberries, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs and sugar, then adding melted butter. Press into a 9×9-inch baking dish.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add powdered sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. Stir in dissolved strawberry jello and heavy cream.
5. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust and bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
7. Garnish with fresh strawberries, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Layered Mango and Vanilla Jello Parfait
A refreshing and vibrant dessert perfect for warm weather, this layered parfait combines the sweetness of mango with the creamy texture of vanilla Jell-O.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened vanilla flavor Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– Whipped cream and chopped fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the vanilla Jell-O in the boiling water. Let it cool slightly.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cold water and heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
3. Cut the cooled Jell-O mixture into 4 equal portions.
4. Layer the parfait by starting with a portion of the Jell-O, followed by a layer of whipped cream, and then a layer of mango. Repeat this process two more times, ending with a layer of Jell-O on top.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight before serving. Garnish with whipped cream and chopped fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as it’s a no-bake dessert!
Blueberry Lemon Jello Mold
This delightful dessert combines the sweetness of blueberries with the brightness of lemon, creating a refreshing and light treat perfect for warm weather gatherings. With just a few simple steps, you can create a stunning jello mold that’s sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lemon Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Whipped cream and additional blueberries for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the Jell-O in boiling water. Let it cool slightly.
2. Add cold water, sugar, and lemon juice to the bowl. Stir until dissolved.
3. Stir in blueberries.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch dish or a jello mold.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with whipped cream and additional blueberries if desired.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (or overnight)
Coffee Jello with Whipped Cream
Elevate your coffee game with this unique dessert that combines the richness of brewed coffee with the creaminess of whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened instant coffee powder
– 1 cup boiling water
– 2 cups cold water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unflavored gelatin
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Whipped cream and additional coffee grounds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the brewed coffee, instant coffee powder, boiling water, sugar, and salt. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Add the softened gelatin to the saucepan and stir until fully dissolved.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch dish or individual cups. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Top with whipped cream and additional coffee grounds, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (as it’s a chilled dessert)
Pineapple Jello Pudding
This refreshing dessert combines the sweetness of pineapple with the lightness of jello pudding, perfect for hot summer days or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened pineapple gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup crushed pineapple, drained
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the pineapple gelatin in the boiling water.
2. Add the cold water and stir until the gelatin is fully dissolved.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, sugar, and crushed pineapple.
4. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
5. Remove from heat and add the pineapple gelatin mixture. Stir until combined.
6. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until chilled and set.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is refrigerated.
Cherry Jello Poke Cake
A classic dessert that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings. This moist and flavorful cake is infused with the sweet and tangy flavor of cherry Jell-O.
Ingredients:
– 1 package white cake mix
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup Cherry Jello powder
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped until stiff peaks form
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions. Pour into prepared baking dish.
3. Poke holes all over the top of the warm cake using a skewer or fork.
4. In a separate bowl, dissolve Cherry Jello powder in boiling water. Pour mixture evenly over the poked cake.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the cake to absorb the Jell-O mixture.
6. Top with whipped cream before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Orange Creamsicle Jello Shots
Bring a taste of sunshine to your gatherings with these refreshing and fruity jello shots. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a fun treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened orange Jell-O
– 1 cup cold orange juice
– 1 cup vodka (or to taste)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon orange extract
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the Orange Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add the cold orange juice and stir until dissolved.
3. Stir in the vodka, heavy cream, and orange extract.
4. Pour into shot glasses or small cups.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None
Watermelon Jello Slices
Beat the heat with this light and fruity dessert! These colorful jello slices are infused with the sweetness of watermelon, perfect for a warm-weather gathering or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lemon Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup seedless watermelon puree
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Whipped cream and chopped fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the Jell-O in the boiling water.
2. Stir until the Jell-O is fully dissolved.
3. Add the cold water and stir to combine.
4. Pour in the watermelon puree and sugar; stir until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into 9×13-inch pan or a silicone jello mold.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
7. Cut into slices, garnish with whipped cream and mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (or overnight)
Coconut Lime Jello Bites
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized Coconut Lime Jello Bites, perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a sweet pick-me-up anytime.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened coconut gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1 cup of boiling water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. Add the cold water, sugar, unsweetened shredded coconut, and lime juice to the softened gelatin mixture. Stir until dissolved.
3. Pour the mixture into small mold shapes or mini muffin tin cups.
4. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
5. Unmold and serve chilled. If desired, add a few drops of green food coloring to give them a bright lime hue.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Blackberry Basil Jello Salad
This unique salad combines the sweetness of blackberries with the brightness of fresh basil, all held together by a refreshing jello base. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or potlucks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened blackberry flavor Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries, rinsed and drained
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the Jell-O in the boiling water.
2. Add the cold water and stir until the Jell-O is fully dissolved.
3. Stir in the sugar until it’s completely dissolved.
4. Fold in the chopped basil leaves.
5. Arrange the blackberries on top of the jello mixture.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until the jello is set.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold-set salad.
Mint Chocolate Chip Jello Dessert
Beat the heat with this refreshing mint chocolate chip jello dessert! This simple and sweet treat is perfect for warm weather gatherings or potlucks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lemon-lime flavored gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies (or 1 teaspoon peppermint extract)
– 1 cup cold milk
– 8 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the gelatin in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and sugar; stir until sugar is dissolved.
3. Stir in crushed peppermint candies (or extract).
4. Refrigerate until set, about 3-4 hours.
5. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Fold in milk until well combined.
6. Pour jello mixture into a 9×13-inch dish.
7. Dollop the cream cheese mixture on top of the jello.
8. Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips.
Cooking Time: None (refrigerate for 3-4 hours to set)
Pomegranate Jello with Fresh Fruit
This refreshing dessert is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a light and fruity treat any time of the year. With its vibrant color and sweet-tart flavor, this pomegranate jello is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened pomegranate flavored gelatin
– 2 cups cold water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pomegranate juice
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
– Fresh fruit of your choice (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve gelatin in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and sugar; stir until sugar is dissolved.
3. Add pomegranate juice; stir to combine.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13 inch pan or individual serving cups.
5. Refrigerate until set, about 3-4 hours.
6. Top with whipped cream and fresh fruit before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed! This dessert is chilled in the refrigerator until set.
Matcha Green Tea Jello Squares
Experience the refreshing taste of matcha green tea in a sweet and tangy jello square. Perfect for a light dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup boiling water
• 2 teaspoons matcha powder
• 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the matcha powder over boiling water and whisk until dissolved.
2. In a separate bowl, combine gelatin and cold water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
3. Add sugar, honey, and heavy cream to the gelatin mixture. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
4. Pour the matcha-infused water into the gelatin mixture and stir well.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish or a silicone jello mold. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
6. Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (refrigeration time)
Raspberry Swirl Cream Cheese Jello
Elevate your dessert game with this sweet and tangy Raspberry Swirl Cream Cheese Jello. This simple recipe combines the creaminess of cream cheese with the tartness of raspberries, all wrapped up in a refreshing jello package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup fresh raspberries, pureed
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the gelatin in the boiling water.
2. Add the cold water and stir until the gelatin is fully dissolved.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar. Beat until smooth.
4. Stir in the pureed raspberries and lemon juice.
5. Pour the jello mixture into a 9×13 inch dish or mold.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
Cooking Time: None
Enjoy your Raspberry Swirl Cream Cheese Jello!
Peach Melba Jello Cups
Peach Melba Jello Cups: A Sweet and Refreshing Treat!
These bite-sized treats are perfect for hot summer days or as a light dessert option. With the combination of juicy peaches, sweet vanilla pudding, and whipped cream, you’ll be in for a treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope peach-flavored Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 ripe peach, diced
– 1/4 cup vanilla pudding
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the peach-flavored Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add cold water to the mixture and stir until dissolved.
3. Pour the mixture into small cups or molds.
4. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
5. Whip heavy whipping cream with granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
6. Spoon whipped cream over the Jell-O mixture.
7. Top each cup with a spoonful of diced peach and a dollop of vanilla pudding.
Cooking Time: None!
Note: You can also use canned peaches or peaches in syrup if fresh ones are not available.
Grape Jello with Marshmallow Topping
A classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, this grape jello recipe is easy to make and deliciously sweet. With a fluffy marshmallow topping, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened grape Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the grape Jell-O in the boiling water.
2. Add the cold water and stir until fully dissolved.
3. Pour the jello mixture into individual serving cups or a 9×13 inch pan.
4. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
5. Just before serving, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
6. Top each serving of grape jello with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of mini marshmallows.
Cooking Time: None (chill time: at least 3 hours or overnight)
Carrot Cake Jello Mold with Cream Cheese Frosting
A refreshing twist on traditional carrot cake, this jello mold combines the flavors of carrots, spices, and cream cheese for a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lemon Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until dissolved.
3. Stir in sugar, grated carrot, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch jello mold or a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
6. For the frosting, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth.
7. Unmold jello from mold or remove from pan. Slice and serve with cream cheese frosting.
Cooking Time: None
Key Lime Pie Jello Parfait
This Key Lime Pie Jello Parfait is a creative twist on the classic dessert, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick snack. Layers of citrusy jello, creamy whipped cream, and crunchy graham cracker crumbs come together in a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened Key Lime Jell-O
– 1 cup cold milk
– 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers
– Freshly squeezed lime juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve jello in boiling water.
2. Add cold milk and stir until combined. Refrigerate until chilled.
3. Whip heavy cream with sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. To assemble the parfait, layer jello mixture, whipped cream, and crushed graham crackers in small cups or glasses.
5. Drizzle with freshly squeezed lime juice, if desired.
6. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None required!
Boozy Tropical Jello Shooters
Get ready to escape to a tropical paradise with these Boozy Tropical Jello Shooters! Perfect for your next party or gathering, these fruity and boozy treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lemon Jell-O
– 1 cup cold pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup dark rum
– 1/4 cup coconut cream
– 1/4 cup simple syrup
– Pineapple wedges and cherry halves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the lemon Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add the pineapple juice, dark rum, coconut cream, and simple syrup to the Jell-O mixture. Stir until dissolved.
3. Pour the mixture into small shot glasses or cups.
4. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
5. Garnish with pineapple wedges and cherry halves before serving.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (or overnight)
Summary
Beat the summer heat with these refreshing and creamy jello dessert recipes! From fruity parfaits to decadent cheesecake bars, there’s something for everyone. Try making Rainbow Jello Cubes with Coconut Milk, Strawberry Jello Cheesecake Bars, or Layered Mango and Vanilla Jello Parfait. Or, get creative with unique flavors like Coffee Jello with Whipped Cream, Orange Creamsicle Jello Shots, or Blackberry Basil Jello Salad. Whatever your taste buds desire, these 20 creamy jello dessert recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
