As the temperatures rise and the days get longer, there’s nothing quite like a cool and creamy dessert to beat the heat. And what better way to do that than with a batch of refreshing gelatin desserts? From fruity and colorful jello squares to layered parfaits and creamy pies, we’ve got 20 mouthwatering recipes to help you make the most of your summer gatherings.
In this article, we’ll take you on a tour of the coolest (pun intended!) gelatin desserts that are perfect for hot summer days. From classic flavors like strawberry and orange to more unique combinations like pina colada and black forest, there’s something for everyone in our list. So grab your gelatin and let’s get started!
Rainbow Jello Squares
Create a vibrant and refreshing dessert with these Rainbow Jello Squares, perfect for potlucks or snack time. This easy recipe combines the colors of the rainbow in a fun and fruity way.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lemon-lime gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup mixed fruit juice (such as pineapple, orange, and grapefruit)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple)
– Whipped cream and sprinkles for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the gelatin in boiling water.
2. Add cold water, sugar, and fruit juice to the bowl. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
3. Divide the mixture into six small bowls. Add a few drops of food coloring to each bowl to create the colors of the rainbow (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple).
4. Pour each colored mixture into a 9×13-inch pan lined with parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
6. Cut into squares and serve chilled. Top with whipped cream and sprinkles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 3 hours
Strawberry Pretzel Salad
This sweet and savory salad combines the freshness of strawberries with the crunch of pretzels, perfect for a light and refreshing meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup pretzel rods, broken into pieces
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the strawberries and pretzel pieces.
2. Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the mixture, tossing to coat.
3. Sprinkle feta cheese on top (if using).
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Orange Creamsicle Jello
Brighten up your day with this vibrant and creamy jello recipe that captures the essence of a classic orange creamsicle. With its citrusy flavor and smooth texture, it’s perfect for hot summer days or as a fun dessert for kids’ parties.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened orange Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Dissolve the orange Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until completely dissolved.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the whipped cream mixture into the jello mixture until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
Cooking Time: None required! Just chill and enjoy.
Layered Raspberry Gelatin Dessert
A refreshing and fruity dessert perfect for warm weather gatherings or potlucks. This layered treat is a showstopper that’s easy to make and impressive to serve.
Ingredients:
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened raspberry gelatin
– 2 cups boiling water
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped until stiff peaks form
– 1 cup fresh raspberries, sliced
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine gelatin and sugar. Stir in boiling water until dissolved.
2. Add cold water and stir to combine.
3. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch dish or individual serving cups.
4. Refrigerate until set, about 3-4 hours.
5. Just before serving, top with whipped cream and fresh raspberries.
6. Garnish with mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (refrigeration time)
Blueberry Lemon Jello Mold
Brighten up your dessert table with this refreshing and flavorful Blueberry Lemon Jello Mold! A perfect blend of sweet and tangy, this treat is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lemon gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup blueberry jam
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 1 cup cold water and let it soften for 2 minutes.
2. Add boiling water to the gelatin mixture and stir until dissolved.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, blueberry jam, and heavy cream. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour the jello mixture into the sugar mixture and stir gently.
5. Fold in blueberries and lemon zest.
6. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch mold or individual cups. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake recipe!
Pina Colada Gelatin Cups
Beat the heat with these creamy Pina Colada Gelatin Cups, perfect for a summer gathering or a quick dessert fix. This recipe combines the flavors of pineapple, coconut, and lime in a refreshing and easy-to-make gelatin treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1 cup cold pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 teaspoon lime zest
– Lime wedges, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over boiling water and let it bloom for 2 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, and shredded coconut until smooth.
3. Add the bloomed gelatin to the mixture and whisk until dissolved.
4. Pour the mixture into small cups or ramekins.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
6. Garnish with a lime wedge before serving.
Cooking Time: 3 hours
Cherry Cheesecake Jello
A refreshing twist on traditional jello, this cherry cheesecake recipe combines the sweetness of cherries with the tanginess of cheesecake, all in a convenient and easy-to-make dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cherry Jello
– 1 cup cold water
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the cherry Jello in boiling water.
2. Add cold water to the mixture and stir until the Jello is fully dissolved.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
4. Gradually add sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture, beating until combined.
5. Fold the cream cheese mixture into the cherry Jello mixture until well combined.
6. Stir in chopped maraschino cherries.
7. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch pan or individual serving cups.
8. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a chilled dessert.
Lime Jello with Pineapple
This classic dessert combines the tanginess of lime jello with the sweetness of pineapple, creating a refreshing and easy-to-make treat perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lime Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup crushed pineapple
– Whipped cream and additional pineapple chunks for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the lime Jell-O in the boiling water.
2. Add the cold water and stir until the mixture is fully dissolved.
3. Stir in the pineapple juice until well combined.
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. Just before serving, top with whipped cream and additional pineapple chunks if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is chilled in the refrigerator.
Watermelon Gelatin Slices
Beat the heat with this light and fruity dessert, perfect for hot summer days. These watermelon gelatin slices are a simple and elegant way to enjoy the sweetness of watermelon in a new and exciting way.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 2 cups cold water
– 1 cup cubed seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of boiling water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened gelatin and cold water. Stir until dissolved.
3. Add the cubed watermelon and honey (if using) to the gelatin mixture. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish or mold and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
5. Once set, cut into slices and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 3 hours + chilling time
Peach Melba Jello Parfait
A refreshing twist on the classic parfait, this recipe combines sweet peaches and creamy vanilla pudding with a fruity peach melba jello layer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) peach melba flavor jello
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 large eggs, separated
– 1 ripe peach, diced
– Whipped cream and additional peach slices for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the jello in the boiling water. Add the cold water and stir until the jello is fully dissolved.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, sugar, and egg yolks until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold the whipped cream mixture into the cooled jello mixture until well combined.
4. Spoon half of the jello mixture into individual serving cups or glasses.
5. Top with diced peaches and repeat the layers one more time.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. Top with additional whipped cream and peach slices, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply assemble and chill the parfait.
Tropical Mango Gelatin
Beat the heat with this vibrant and fruity gelatin dessert, infused with the sweetness of mangoes and the essence of tropical paradise. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for hot summer days or as a refreshing snack any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup mango puree or mashed ripe mango
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the boiling water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cold water, sugar, mango puree or mashed mango, and lime juice. Heat over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add the softened gelatin to the saucepan and stir until fully dissolved.
4. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a 9×13-inch baking dish. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: None required. Just chill and serve!
Black Forest Jello Pudding
This recipe combines the classic flavors of black forest cake with the simplicity and convenience of jello pudding. With its rich chocolate flavor, whipped cream topping, and maraschino cherry garnish, this dessert is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened chocolate powder
– 2 cups cold milk
– 1 cup Jell-O powder (blackberry or black currant)
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve chocolate powder in boiling water.
2. In a large bowl, combine cold milk and Jell-O powder. Stir until dissolved.
3. Add the chocolate mixture to the Jell-O mixture and stir well.
4. Chill in refrigerator for 3-4 hours or until set.
5. Whip heavy whipping cream with granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
6. Spoon pudding into individual serving cups. Top with whipped cream and garnish with chopped maraschino cherries.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (refrigeration time)
Lemon-Lime Jello with Sprite
Brighten up your dessert table with this refreshing and citrusy jello recipe infused with the zesty flavor of lemon-lime and a splash of Sprite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lemon-lime flavored gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup Sprite, chilled
– Food coloring (optional)
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. Add the sugar and stir until it’s completely dissolved.
4. Stir in the chilled Sprite.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch pan or individual cups.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
7. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to tint the jello.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-bake dessert.
Strawberry Banana Gelatin Salad
This refreshing dessert combines the natural sweetness of strawberries and bananas with the tanginess of gelatin, making it a perfect treat for warm weather gatherings or family picnics.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened strawberry gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the gelatin in boiling water.
2. Add the cold water to the gelatin mixture and stir until dissolved.
3. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
4. Just before serving, arrange the banana and strawberry slices on top of the gelatin.
5. Drizzle with honey for a touch of sweetness.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (or overnight)
Coconut Cream Jello Pie
Coconut Cream Jello Pie: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic Dessert!
This tropical treat combines the creamy texture of coconut with the classic comfort of jello pie. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or any time you need a sweet escape.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened coconut Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut, toasted
– 1 graham cracker crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve Jell-O in boiling water. Let cool.
2. Add cold water and stir until combined. Refrigerate until chilled.
3. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold whipped cream into cooled Jell-O mixture.
5. Stir in sweetened condensed milk and salt.
6. Pour filling into graham cracker crust.
7. Top with toasted shredded coconut.
Cooking Time: None! This pie is a no-bake treat that’s ready to serve once the filling has chilled.
Grape Jello with Cream Cheese Topping
This refreshing dessert combines the classic flavors of grape jello with a tangy cream cheese topping, perfect for warm weather gatherings or potlucks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened grape jello
– 1 cup cold water
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered 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 dissolved.
3. Pour into a 9×13 inch pan or mold and refrigerate until set (about 3 hours).
4. For the topping, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
5. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
6. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled grape jello.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Pistachio Jello Delight
A refreshing dessert perfect for warm weather, this Pistachio Jello Delight combines the crunch of chopped nuts with the sweetness of fruit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) pistachio flavored Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 cup mixed fruit (such as grapes, pineapple, and mandarin oranges)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, dissolve the Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add the cold water and stir until the mixture is fully dissolved.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
4. In a large serving dish, combine the sugar and chopped pistachios.
5. Pour the Jell-O mixture over the sugar-pistachio mixture and refrigerate for 3-4 hours or until set.
6. Just before serving, top with whipped cream and mixed fruit.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (refrigeration time)
Sparkling Cranberry Gelatin
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this light and bubbly dessert that combines the flavors of cranberries and citrus. This Sparkling Cranberry Gelatin is perfect for a festive touch at your next dinner party or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup cranberry juice
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup sparkling water
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the boiling water and let it soften for 5 minutes.
2. Add the cold water to the bowl and stir until the gelatin is fully dissolved.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cranberry juice, sugar, and softened gelatin mixture. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight.
5. Just before serving, stir in the sparkling water and lime juice.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert requires no cooking time. Simply chill and serve.
Key Lime Jello Cheesecake
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your dessert routine with this refreshing Key Lime Jello Cheesecake. With its creamy texture and tangy lime filling, it’s the perfect treat for warm weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup key lime juice
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unflavored gelatin
– 1 cup boiling water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix crumbs and sugar; add butter and press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add powdered sugar and eggs, mixing well.
4. Stir in key lime juice and gelatin mixture (dissolved in boiling water).
5. Pour filling over crust and bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating overnight.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mixed Berry Gelatin Terrine
A vibrant and refreshing dessert, this mixed berry gelatin terrine is perfect for warm weather gatherings. Layers of sweet and tangy berries are set with a clear gelatin, creating a visually stunning and flavorful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1 cup mixed berry juice (such as raspberry, blueberry, and blackberry)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
– 2 cups mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries), hulled and sliced
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over boiling water; let it soften for 5 minutes.
2. In a large saucepan, combine sugar and berry juice. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat; add softened gelatin, stirring until dissolved.
4. Refrigerate mixture until chilled, about 30 minutes.
5. Pour gelatin mixture into individual serving cups or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with whipped heavy cream and layer with sliced berries.
7. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None required
Summary
Beat the summer heat with these refreshing gelatin dessert recipes! From classic flavors like strawberry and lemon to tropical twists like pina colada and mango, there’s something for everyone. Try making Rainbow Jello Squares or Layered Raspberry Gelatin Dessert for a colorful treat. Or, indulge in creamy delights like Coconut Cream Jello Pie or Black Forest Jello Pudding. Whether you’re looking for a light and fruity dessert or a rich and decadent treat, these 20 recipes will keep your taste buds cool all summer long.
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