It’s the most wonderful time of the year – Christmas! And what better way to get into the holiday spirit than with a festive and delicious dessert? Jello recipes are a great way to add some fun and creativity to your holiday celebrations. From classic flavors like peppermint and eggnog, to more unique combinations like gingerbread spiced and pomegranate mint, there’s something for everyone on this list of 18 irresistible Christmas jello recipes.
Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece or a simple yet impressive dessert to bring to your holiday party, these festive jello creations are sure to impress. From layered wreaths to colorful cups, and even some boozy shots for the adults-only gatherings, we’ve got you covered with our top picks for this merry season.
Peppermint Swirl Jello Dessert
A refreshing twist on traditional jello desserts, this peppermint swirl treat is perfect for hot summer days or as a unique dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lemon-flavored gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups heavy cream, whipped
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– Food coloring (green)
– 1 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve gelatin in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until dissolved.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar and whipped cream. Stir until combined.
4. Add peppermint extract and green food coloring to the sugar mixture. Mix well.
5. Pour the gelatin mixture into the sugar mixture. Stir gently to combine.
6. Refrigerate for 3-4 hours or overnight until set.
7. If desired, sprinkle crushed candy canes or peppermint candies on top before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-bake dessert.
Cranberry Orange Jello Salad
A refreshing and tangy side dish perfect for holiday gatherings or potlucks!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cranberry gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup orange juice
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chopped fresh cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over boiling water and let soften for 2 minutes.
2. Add cold water to softened gelatin and stir until dissolved.
3. In a large bowl, combine orange juice, heavy cream, chopped cranberries, and nuts.
4. Add gelatin mixture to the bowl and stir until well combined.
5. Refrigerate until set, about 3-4 hours or overnight.
6. Just before serving, sprinkle with sugar.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake recipe!
Christmas Layered Jello Wreath
Add a festive touch to your holiday gathering with this colorful and delicious Christmas Layered Jello Wreath recipe. This show-stopping dessert is perfect for parties or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lemon Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup mixed fruit (such as pineapple, orange, and grapefruit)
– 1 cup miniature marshmallows
– Green food coloring
– Fresh cranberries or holly sprigs for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the lemon Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add cold water to the mixture and stir until combined.
3. Refrigerate until set, about 3-4 hours.
4. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
5. Fold whipped cream into the cooled Jell-O mixture.
6. Layer the Jell-O mixture with mixed fruit and marshmallows in a 9-inch round mold or ring.
7. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours to set.
8. Unmold and garnish with fresh cranberries or holly sprigs.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours, including refrigeration time.
Eggnog Jello with Whipped Cream
Celebrate the holiday season with this creamy and sweet dessert that’s perfect for parties or family gatherings. This Eggnog Jello with Whipped Cream recipe is easy to make and sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 cup eggnog
– 1/2 cup cold milk
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream and nutmeg for topping
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 1/4 cup cold water and let it sit for 2 minutes.
2. Add boiling water to the gelatin mixture and stir until dissolved.
3. In a large bowl, combine eggnog, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
4. Pour the gelatin mixture into the eggnog mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into individual cups or a 9×13-inch pan. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
6. Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with nutmeg before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake dessert!
Gingerbread Spiced Jello Squares
These bite-sized treats combine the classic flavors of gingerbread and spices with a fun twist – jello! Perfect for a holiday party or as a unique dessert for your loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 1 package (0.25 oz) unsweetened lemon Jell-O
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1/2 cup cold milk
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs, crushed
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Dissolve Jell-O in boiling water. Add cold milk and stir until combined.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together honey, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
3. Pour the Jell-O mixture into a 9×9-inch pan. Top with the spice mixture.
4. Sprinkle crushed graham crackers over the top.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
6. Cut into squares and dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (refrigeration time)
Snowflake Jello Parfait
Delight your senses with this whimsical dessert featuring snow-white jello, creamy whipped cream, and crunchy cookie crumbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened strawberry Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup crushed vanilla wafers or cookie crumbs
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, dissolve the Jell-O in boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved.
2. Add the cold water and stir to combine. Pour into a 9×13-inch dish or individual cups.
3. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
4. Just before serving, whip the heavy cream with sugar until stiff peaks form.
5. Spoon the whipped cream over the jello layer.
6. Sprinkle crushed cookies or wafers on top of the whipped cream.
Cooking Time:
– Chill time: at least 3 hours or overnight
– Whipping cream: about 2-3 minutes
Red and Green Layered Jello Cups
Add a pop of color to your next gathering with these easy-to-make Red and Green Layered Jello Cups. This refreshing dessert is perfect for parties, potlucks, or even just a fun treat for the family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened red fruit flavor Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup frozen green grapes, thawed and chopped
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Dissolve the red Jell-O in boiling water. Add cold water and stir until dissolved.
2. Pour the red Jell-O mixture into small cups or molds, leaving about 1 inch at the top.
3. Refrigerate until set, about 3-4 hours.
4. To make the green layer, combine heavy cream, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Stir until sugar dissolves.
5. Add chopped green grapes to the cream mixture and stir well.
6. Pour the green layer over the red Jell-O layer in each cup.
7. Refrigerate until set, about 3-4 hours more.
8. Top with whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Champagne Jello with Fresh Berries
Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing and elegant Champagne Jello with Fresh Berries recipe, perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence. This light and fruity dessert is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 2 cups boiling water
– 1 cup cold champagne or sparkling wine
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or a mix)
– Optional: whipped cream and fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over boiling water; stir until dissolved.
2. Add cold champagne and stir until well combined.
3. Stir in sugar until dissolved.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch dish or individual cups.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
6. Just before serving, top with fresh berries.
Cooking Time: None (set in refrigerator)
Spiced Apple Cider Jello
Warm up with a flavorful and refreshing Spiced Apple Cider Jello perfect for fall gatherings or as a unique dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 2 cups boiling water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground allspice
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 1/4 cup cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Add bloomed gelatin to the apple cider mixture, stirring until dissolved.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
5. Pour into a 9×13 inch pan or individual cups. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
6. If desired, add food coloring to tint the jello.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-bake dessert.
Christmas Tree Jello Mold
Add a touch of festive fun to your holiday table with this colorful Christmas tree jello mold. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it’s perfect for kids and adults alike!
Ingredients:
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened strawberry Jell-O
• 1 cup cold water
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1/4 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
• 1 tablespoon green food coloring
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until dissolved.
3. Stir in sugar, chopped nuts, and crushed candy canes or peppermint candies.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch pan or jello mold with a Christmas tree shape.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours or overnight to set.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None! Let the Jell-O set in the refrigerator.
Enjoy your festive and delicious Christmas Tree Jello Mold!
Pomegranate Jello with Mint
This unique dessert combines the tartness of pomegranate with the cooling freshness of mint, creating a delightful and light treat perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened pomegranate Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until dissolved.
3. In a separate bowl, mix sugar and lime juice until well combined.
4. Pour the Jell-O mixture into individual serving cups or a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Stir in the sugar-lime mixture.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
7. Just before serving, top with whipped cream and garnish with mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None (Chill time: 3 hours or overnight)
White Chocolate Jello Pudding
Brighten up your dessert menu with this creamy and sweet White Chocolate Jello Pudding. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for hot summer days or as a special occasion dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 cup cold milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 1/4 cup cold water and let it soften for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine white chocolate chips, sugar, and 1/2 cup boiling water. Stir until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Remove the saucepan from heat and add the softened gelatin, stirring until dissolved.
4. Let the mixture cool slightly before whisking in the cold milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including prep time)
Yield: 4-6 servings
Festive Candy Cane Jello
Add a touch of holiday cheer to your holiday gatherings with this vibrant and flavorful Festive Candy Cane Jello recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 2 cups cold water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup crushed candy canes (about 12-15 canes)
– 1/4 cup green food coloring
– Whipped cream and additional crushed candy canes for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 1 cup of boiling water; stir until dissolved.
2. In a large bowl, combine sugar, cold water, and crushed candy canes. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
3. Add the gelatin mixture to the bowl; stir until combined.
4. Add green food coloring; stir until desired shade is achieved.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: None
Servings: 8-10 cups
Orange Creamsicle Jello Dessert
Brighten up any gathering with this refreshing Orange Creamsicle Jello Dessert! Layers of creamy orange gelatin, sweet whipped cream, and juicy pineapple create a delightful treat that’s perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened orange Jell-O
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
- Dissolve orange Jell-O in boiling water. Add cold water and stir until completely dissolved.
- Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch dish and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
- Top with whipped cream, crushed pineapple, and sugar. Refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled, garnished with orange slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (depending on setting time)
Enjoy your Orange Creamsicle Jello Dessert!
Peppermint Hot Chocolate Jello
Elevate your hot chocolate game with this refreshing and festive treat that combines the warmth of hot chocolate with the cooling zing of peppermint.
Ingredients:
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 2 cups boiling water
– 1 cup milk or half-and-half
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or chopped peppermint candies (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 1/4 cup cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine boiling water, milk, sugar, and salt. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
3. Add softened gelatin and melted butter to the mixture; stir until gelatin is fully dissolved.
4. Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract.
5. Pour into 6 (8-ounce) cups or a 9×13-inch baking dish. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
6. Just before serving, sprinkle with crushed candy canes or chopped peppermint candies if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Sparkling Cranberry Jello Shots
Add some sparkle to your holiday gatherings with these refreshing cranberry jello shots infused with a hint of citrus and topped with bubbly fun. Perfect for parties or as a unique gift, these treats are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cranberry gelatin
– 1 cup cold cranberry juice
– 1/2 cup simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup triple sec or other orange-flavored liqueur
– 1/2 cup sparkling water
– Fresh cranberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the gelatin in boiling water.
2. Add the cold cranberry juice, simple syrup, and triple sec to the gelatin mixture. Stir until dissolved.
3. Pour the mixture into small shot glasses or molds.
4. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
5. Just before serving, top each shot with sparkling water.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-cook, easy-peasy delight.
Gingerbread House Jello Cake
Create a festive and delicious dessert with this unique recipe that combines the flavors of gingerbread and jello cake. Perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 2 cups cold water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened apple-flavored Jell-O
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup crushed gingerbread cookies (about 20-25 cookies)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon molasses
– Whipped cream and candy decorations for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine boiling water and Jell-O. Stir until dissolved.
2. Add cold water and stir to combine.
3. Refrigerate until set, about 3 hours.
4. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
5. Fold in crushed gingerbread cookies, sugar, and molasses.
6. Pour whipped mixture over Jell-O and refrigerate for an additional 2 hours.
7. Serve chilled, garnished with whipped cream and candy decorations.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (including chilling time)
Winter Wonderland Jello Parfait
A sweet and refreshing treat perfect for the holiday season! This colorful parfait combines the flavors of winter with a fun and easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) wintergreen Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
– Fresh raspberries and blueberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the Wintergreen Jell-O in the boiling water.
2. Add the cold water to the Jell-O mixture and stir until dissolved.
3. Pour the Jell-O mixture into a 9×13 inch pan or individual cups. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
4. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
5. Layer the whipped cream, crushed candy canes or peppermint candies, and the set Jell-O in parfait glasses or cups.
6. Garnish with fresh raspberries and blueberries.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (or overnight)
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 18 festive Christmas jello recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family. From classic peppermint swirls to creative layered wreaths, there’s something for everyone on this list. Try making a Cranberry Orange Jello Salad or a Gingerbread Spiced Jello Squares. Or, get fancy with a Snowflake Jello Parfait or a Christmas Tree Jello Mold. Whatever your taste, these jello recipes are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
