It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and what better way to celebrate than with a dessert that’s as merry and bright as the holiday season itself? Jello, in all its wiggly, wobbly glory, is the perfect canvas for your holiday creations. With its vibrant colors, festive flavors, and endless possibilities for presentation, jello is a must-have at any Christmas gathering.
From classic peppermint swirls to creative twists like gingerbread-spiced and eggnog-infused varieties, we’ve rounded up 18 of the most irresistible Christmas jello recipes that are sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just looking for a fun and easy dessert to enjoy with family, these festive recipes will get you in the mood for some serious holiday cheer.
Peppermint Swirl Jello Dessert
A refreshing and festive dessert perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened peppermint flavor Jello
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the peppermint Jello in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until the mixture is fully dissolved.
3. Pour the Jello mixture into a 9×13-inch dish.
4. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
5. Just before serving, whip heavy cream with sugar and salt until stiff peaks form.
6. Spoon whipped cream over the cooled Jello dessert.
7. If desired, sprinkle crushed candy canes or peppermint candies on top.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (refrigeration time)
Serves: 8-10 people
Cranberry Orange Jello Mold
This refreshing dessert is perfect for holiday gatherings or potlucks. A tangy combination of cranberries and orange, set in a clear gelatin mold, makes for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cranberry gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
– 1/2 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed or bottled
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– Whipped cream and chopped pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the gelatin in boiling water.
2. Add cold water to the gelatin mixture and stir until dissolved.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, cranberries, orange juice, and zest.
4. Pour the gelatin mixture over the fruit mixture and stir until combined.
5. Pour into a 9×13-inch mold or individual molds.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to set.
7. Unmold and garnish with whipped cream and chopped pecans, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! Just chill and serve.
Eggnog Jello with Whipped Cream
Get into the holiday spirit with this creamy and delicious Eggnog Jello with Whipped Cream. This classic dessert is a staple at many holiday gatherings, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, impressive to serve, and utterly irresistible.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 2 cups cold eggnog
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 8 ounces heavy whipping cream
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 1/4 cup boiling water and let soften for 5 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, combine eggnog, sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
3. Add softened gelatin to eggnog mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Pour into a 9×13-inch dish or mold. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
5. Just before serving, whip heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: None
Christmas Tree Layered Jello
Add a festive touch to your holiday gatherings with this colorful and delicious Christmas tree layered Jell-O dessert. Layers of green, red, and white Jell-O create a unique and eye-catching presentation that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 package (0.25 oz) unsweetened lime Jell-O
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened raspberry Jell-O
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened white grape Jell-O
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 cup cold water
– Whipped cream, for topping
Instructions:
1. Dissolve each flavor of Jell-O in its respective amount of boiling water.
2. Add the cold water to each dissolved Jell-O mixture and stir until combined.
3. Pour 1/3 of the lime Jell-O mixture into a 9×13-inch dish or mold.
4. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the layer to set.
5. Repeat steps 2-4 with the raspberry and white grape Jell-O mixtures, creating three layers in total.
6. Top with whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-bake dessert.
Gingerbread Spiced Jello
Gingerbread Spiced Jello: A Twist on a Classic Holiday Treat
This unique dessert combines the warm spices of gingerbread with the classic sweetness of jello, perfect for a festive holiday gathering or party.
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 honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and let it sit for 2-3 minutes to soften.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, honey, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Add the boiling water and stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and add the softened gelatin, stirring until completely dissolved.
4. Pour into individual serving cups or a 9×13-inch baking dish. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
5. Just before serving, top with whipped cream or half-and-half if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (chilling time)
Snowflake Jello Parfait
Create a winter wonderland treat with this simple and refreshing Snowflake Jello Parfait recipe. Layers of colorful jellies, whipped cream, and fruit create a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lemon-flavored gelatin
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 cups mixed berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
• 1 cup pineapple chunks
• 1 cup mandarin orange segments
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve gelatin in boiling water.
2. Add cold water to the gelatin mixture and stir until dissolved.
3. Pour into a 9×13-inch pan and refrigerate until set (about 3 hours).
4. Whip heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
5. Cut jello into small cubes.
6. Assemble parfait layers: whipped cream, mixed berries, pineapple chunks, mandarin orange segments, and jello cubes.
7. Repeat the layers one more time, ending with a layer of whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (for jello setting)
Hot Chocolate Jello Pudding
This creamy, rich pudding is perfect for a cold winter’s night or as a comforting treat any time of the year. With its deep, velvety hot chocolate flavor and soft, jiggly texture, you’ll be hooked from the first spoonful.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened instant hot chocolate powder
– 1 package (0.25 oz) sugar-free orange Jell-O
– 1 cup cold milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the hot chocolate powder in the boiling water.
2. Add the sugar-free orange Jell-O to the hot chocolate mixture and stir until dissolved.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cold milk, heavy cream, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
4. Pour the hot chocolate mixture into the milk mixture and whisk until well combined.
5. Pour the pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until chilled and set.
6. Garnish with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (chill in refrigerator)
Winter Wonderland Jello Salad
Winter Wonderland Jello Salad Recipe
Brighten up your holiday gatherings with this festive and refreshing Winter Wonderland Jello Salad! Layers of vibrant green Jell-O, sweet cranberry sauce, and creamy whipped cream create a delightful treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lime Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
– 8 ounces heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– Fresh mint leaves or holly sprigs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Dissolve the Jell-O in boiling water, then add cold water and stir until fully dissolved.
2. Pour into a 9×13-inch pan and refrigerate until set, about 3-4 hours.
3. Layer the cranberry sauce over the Jell-O.
4. Whip the heavy whipping cream with sugar until stiff peaks form.
5. Top the cranberry layer with the whipped cream.
6. Refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 4 hours (including refrigeration time)
Garnish with fresh mint leaves or holly sprigs, if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy your Winter Wonderland Jello Salad!
Festive Red and Green Jello Layers
Add a pop of color to your holiday gatherings with this easy and impressive festive jello dessert. Layers of vibrant red and green gelatin create a striking display that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened red gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened green gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– Fresh fruit or sprinkles for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve red gelatin in boiling water. Let it cool slightly.
2. Add cold water and stir to combine.
3. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch dish and refrigerate until set (about 3-4 hours).
4. Repeat steps 1-3 with green gelatin.
5. To assemble, place red layer on a serving plate or tray.
6. Top with whipped cream and powdered sugar.
7. Place green layer on top.
8. Garnish with fresh fruit or sprinkles, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Pomegranate Champagne Jello
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this delightful Pomegranate Champagne Jello, a sweet and tangy concoction that’s sure to impress. With its vibrant color and fruity flavor, this dessert is perfect for toasting the season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lemon Jell-O
– 1 cup cold champagne or sparkling wine
– 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
– Pomegranate seeds and fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup cold water; let it soften for 2 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the boiling water, lemon Jell-O, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and add the softened gelatin, champagne, and pomegranate juice. Stir until the gelatin is fully dissolved.
4. Pour into individual serving cups or a large mold. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: None
Candy Cane Jello Shots
Get into the holiday spirit with these festive and flavorful Candy Cane Jello Shots!
Ingredients:
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (about 4-6 canes)
• 1/2 cup cherry juice or grenadine syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon red food coloring
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, crushed candy canes, and boiling water. Stir until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and add softened gelatin, stirring until dissolved.
4. Add cherry juice or grenadine syrup and red food coloring. Stir well.
5. Pour into small molds (about 1/2 cup each). Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
– Crush candy canes in a food processor or place them in a plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin to get the desired texture.
– Use festive molds like holiday-themed cookie cutters or mini cups to make your jello shots look merry and bright!
Spiced Apple Cider Jello
Warm up with a cup of Spiced Apple Cider Jello, a refreshing and flavorful dessert perfect for the fall season. This easy-to-make treat combines the comforting flavors of apple cider, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a light and fruity jello.
Ingredients:
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened apple green jello
– 2 cups boiling water
– 1 cup cold apple cider
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the jello in boiling water.
2. Add the cold apple cider, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until dissolved.
3. Pour into individual serving cups or a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None
Peppermint Bark Jello Squares
A refreshing twist on traditional jello squares, these peppermint bark treats are perfect for hot summer days or as a unique dessert for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened green tea flavored gelatin
• 1 cup cold water
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup crushed candy canes (about 4-6 peppermint candies)
• 1 tablespoon peppermint extract
• 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve gelatin in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until dissolved.
3. In a separate bowl, mix sugar, crushed candy canes, and peppermint extract.
4. Pour gelatin mixture over sugar mixture and stir until combined.
5. Pour into 9×13-inch pan or individual molds. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
6. Just before serving, top with whipped heavy cream.
Cooking Time: 3 hours + refrigeration time
Eggnog and Cranberry Jello Cups
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional jello cups, these Eggnog and Cranberry Jello Cups are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a unique dessert to serve at your next party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cranberry gelatin
– 1 cup cold eggnog
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
– Fresh cranberries and chopped pecans for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup cold water; let sit for 2 minutes.
2. Add the boiling water to the gelatin mixture; stir until dissolved.
3. In a large bowl, combine the eggnog, sugar, and cranberry sauce; whisk until sugar is dissolved.
4. Pour the gelatin mixture into the eggnog mixture; stir well.
5. Pour the mixture into 6-8 cup molds or ramekins.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
7. Top with whipped cream and garnish with fresh cranberries and chopped pecans.
Cooking Time: 3 hours or overnight
Gingerbread House Jello Mold
Create a whimsical dessert that combines the magic of gingerbread with the wiggly fun of jello. This recipe is perfect for Halloween parties or any time you want to add some spooky charm to your table.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lemon Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup ginger ale
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers
– 1/4 cup chopped crystallized ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Whipped cream and candy decorations (optional)
Instructions:
1. Dissolve Jell-O in boiling water, then add cold water and stir.
2. Add ginger ale, sugar, crushed graham crackers, crystallized ginger, and cinnamon to the mixture. Stir until dissolved.
3. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch pan or a jello mold shaped like a house.
4. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
5. Top with whipped cream and decorate with candy pieces (if desired).
Cooking Time: 3 hours
Christmas Wreath Jello Salad
Add a festive touch to your holiday gatherings with this colorful and refreshing Christmas Wreath Jello Salad. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for parties, potlucks, or family celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened raspberry jell-o
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup crushed pineapple
– 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained and sliced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Dissolve the jell-o in boiling water. Let it cool slightly.
2. Add cold water to the jell-o mixture and stir until dissolved.
3. In a separate bowl, combine crushed pineapple, mandarin oranges, heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
4. Pour the jell-o mixture into a 9×13 inch dish or mold. Let it set in the refrigerator for about 3-4 hours or overnight.
5. Top with the pineapple-orange mixture and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours or overnight to set
Vanilla Bean Snowman Jello
Create a festive and refreshing dessert perfect for holiday gatherings with this easy-to-make Vanilla Bean Snowman Jello recipe. With its creamy vanilla flavor and snow-white appearance, it’s sure to be a hit at any winter party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened vanilla instant pudding mix
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Food coloring (white and black)
– Whipped cream and edible markers for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the pudding mix in boiling water.
2. Add cold water, sugar, and salt. Stir until dissolved.
3. Chill mixture in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream, whole milk, and vanilla extract.
5. Color the jello with white food coloring to achieve a snow-white color.
6. Pour into individual serving cups or a large mold.
7. Refrigerate for 3-4 hours until set.
8. Use black food coloring to create coal eyes and mouth on the “snowman” shape (optional).
9. Top with whipped cream and edible markers for decoration, if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Festive Jello Fruit Cocktail
Add some sparkle to your holiday gatherings with this colorful and refreshing Festive Jello Fruit Cocktail! This easy-to-make treat is perfect for parties, potlucks, or family get-togethers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened orange Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup fruit cocktail (drained and chopped)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup mandarin oranges, sliced
– Whipped cream or maraschino cherries for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add cold water to the mixture and stir until the Jell-O is fully dissolved.
3. Stir in the chopped fruit cocktail, pineapple chunks, and mandarin oranges.
4. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or until set.
6. Just before serving, top with whipped cream and maraschino cherries if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick-set and ready to serve in just a few hours.
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 18 festive Christmas jello recipes! From classic peppermint swirl and eggnog treats to creative takes like gingerbread spiced and candy cane jello shots, there’s something for everyone. Impress your guests with layered jellies like cranberry orange and winter wonderland salads, or get cozy with hot chocolate pudding and whipped cream toppings. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want to add some cheer to your everyday meals, these irresistible recipes are sure to bring joy and festive flair to your table.
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