It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes a plethora of festive flavors and colors to incorporate into our culinary creations. And what better way to get in on the fun than with a batch (or three) of deliciously easy Christmas jello recipes? From classic peppermint swirls to cranberry-orange masterpieces, we’ve got 20 mouth-watering options that are sure to impress your holiday guests.
In this article, we’ll take you on a merry-making journey through the world of Christmas jello. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece or a simple dessert to serve alongside your favorite holiday dishes, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron and get ready to gelatin-ize your way into the hearts (and stomachs) of everyone on your nice list!
Peppermint Swirl Jello Dessert
This light and airy dessert is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick treat any time of the year. The combination of peppermint, green Jell-O, and whipped cream creates a refreshing and cooling sensation that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened grape Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– Green food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Dissolve the grape Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until dissolved.
3. Pour into a 9×13-inch pan and refrigerate until set, about 3-4 hours.
4. In a separate bowl, whip heavy whipping cream with sugar and peppermint extract until stiff peaks form.
5. Spoon the whipped cream mixture over the Jell-O in a swirly pattern.
6. Refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is served chilled.
Cranberry Orange Jello Mold
This vibrant jello mold is a perfect dessert for the holiday season, combining the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of orange. It’s an easy and impressive treat to serve at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cranberry gelatin
– 2 cups cold water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup orange juice, chilled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh orange zest
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the gelatin in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until dissolved.
3. Stir in sugar until dissolved.
4. Add cranberries and orange juice; stir to combine.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13 inch pan or jello mold.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
7. Just before serving, sprinkle with orange zest.
Cooking Time: None
Eggnog Jello with Whipped Cream
Start your holiday season off right with this creamy and delicious Eggnog Jello with whipped cream! This sweet treat is perfect for parties, gatherings, or even just a special dessert to enjoy at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened orange gelatin
– 2 cups cold milk
– 1/4 cup eggnog
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Whipped cream for topping
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1 cup of boiling water and let it sit for 1 minute to soften.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cold milk, eggnog, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Add the softened gelatin to the milk mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch dish or mold and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
5. Top with whipped cream and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (depending on refrigerator temperature)
Christmas Tree Layered Jello
Add a festive touch to your holiday gathering with this vibrant Christmas tree layered jello recipe. Perfect for parties and gatherings, this colorful dessert is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups cranberry juice
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Food coloring (green, yellow, and red)
– Whipped cream and sprinkles for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 1/2 cup cold water; let soften 5 minutes.
2. Combine boiling water, sugar, and softened gelatin in a medium saucepan. Stir until gelatin dissolves.
3. Add cranberry and pineapple juices; stir to combine.
4. Remove from heat and add green food coloring to tint the jello “tree” color.
5. Pour into a 9×13-inch dish and refrigerate until set, about 3 hours.
6. Layer yellow and red gelatin mixture on top of green layer, creating a tree shape.
7. Garnish with whipped cream and sprinkles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 3 hours
Gingerbread Spiced Jello Squares
These bite-sized treats combine the warmth of ginger and cinnamon with the fun of jello, perfect for holiday parties or gatherings. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying these festive squares in no time.
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 crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve Jell-O in boiling water. Add cold water and stir until dissolved.
2. In a large bowl, combine sugar, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Pour jello mixture over dry ingredients and whisk until combined.
4. Refrigerate for 3-4 hours or until set.
5. Cut into squares and top with whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (chilling time)
Snowflake White Chocolate Jello
Create a refreshing and elegant dessert with this Snowflake White Chocolate Jello recipe. Perfect for hot summer days or as a unique treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Food coloring (white and blue)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over the boiling water; let it soften for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cold water, white chocolate chips, and sugar. Heat over low heat, stirring until smooth and melted.
3. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract. Stir to combine.
4. Add the softened gelatin mixture to the white chocolate mixture; stir until fully dissolved.
5. Pour into individual cups or a 9×13 inch pan. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tips:
– Use blue food coloring to create a “snowflake” effect by swirling it into the mixture before refrigerating.
– For an added touch, garnish with whipped cream and edible glitter for a festive look!
Sparkling Cranberry Jello Salad
This refreshing salad is a perfect combination of sweet and tangy, making it a great addition to any holiday gathering or potluck. With its vibrant color and fizzy bubbles, it’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cranberry sauce
– 1 cup cold sparkling water
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1 package (6 oz) lemon-flavored Jell-O
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– Fresh raspberries or strawberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the cranberry sauce in boiling water.
2. Add the sparkling water and pineapple juice to the mixture; stir until dissolved.
3. Add the lemon Jell-O and stir until dissolved.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch pan or individual serving cups.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
6. Top with whipped cream and chopped nuts before serving.
7. Garnish with fresh raspberries or strawberries.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (depending on serving size)
Red and Green Layered Jello
Add a pop of color to your next gathering with this easy-to-make Red and Green Layered Jello recipe. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or even just a fun snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened red grape Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened green lime Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the red grape Jell-O in 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Add 1 cup of cold water to the mixture and stir until dissolved.
3. Pour the red Jell-O mixture into a 9×13 inch pan or a mold of your choice.
4. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
5. In another bowl, dissolve the green lime Jell-O in 1 cup of boiling water.
6. Add 1 cup of cold water to the mixture and stir until dissolved.
7. Pour the green Jell-O mixture over the set red layer.
8. Refrigerate for an additional 3 hours or until set.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (including setting time)
Enjoy your Red and Green Layered Jello!
Candy Cane Jello Parfait
Bring festive fun to your holiday gatherings with this colorful and sweet treat! Layers of candy cane-flavored jello, whipped cream, and crushed peppermint candies create a delightful dessert perfect for the season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened pink lemonade Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– Crushed candy canes for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the Jell-O in boiling water. Add cold water and stir until dissolved.
2. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator until set, about 3 hours.
3. Whip the heavy cream and sugar until stiff peaks form. Stir in peppermint extract.
4. To assemble the parfait, layer the cooled jello, whipped cream, and crushed candy canes in small glasses or cups.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is ready in no time.
Spiced Apple Cider Jello Shots
Warm up with these spiced apple cider jello shots, infused with cinnamon and nutmeg for a perfect fall treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened applesauce flavored gelatin
– 2 cups cold apple cider
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
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 large pitcher, combine the cold apple cider, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add the softened gelatin to the apple cider mixture and stir until fully dissolved.
4. Pour the mixture into small shot glasses or molds.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is a no-bake treat.
Festive Champagne Jello Cups
Add a touch of glamour to your holiday gatherings with these elegant and delicious Festive Champagne Jello Cups. Perfect for serving as an appetizer or dessert, this refreshing treat is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lemon-lime flavored gelatin
– 1 cup cold champagne (or sparkling wine)
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup canned mandarin oranges, drained and chopped
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve gelatin in boiling water.
2. Add cold champagne to the gelatin mixture; stir until dissolved.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar and orange juice.
4. Pour the gelatin-champagne mixture into individual serving cups or a 9×13-inch pan.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
6. Just before serving, garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (or overnight)
Pomegranate Jello with Cream Cheese Topping
This refreshing dessert combines the sweetness of pomegranate with the creaminess of cream cheese, perfect for warm weather gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened pomegranate flavor Jello
– 1 cup cold water
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the Jello in boiling water. Add cold water and stir until dissolved.
2. Pour into a 9×13-inch pan and refrigerate until set, about 3-4 hours or overnight.
3. To prepare the cream cheese topping, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
4. Gradually add sugar and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
5. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled Jello.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill in the fridge until ready to serve.
Peppermint Bark Jello Dessert
A refreshing twist on traditional jello desserts, this peppermint bark treat is perfect for the holiday season or any time you need a cool and creamy pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lemon Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon peppermint extract
– 1 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint bark, chopped
– Whipped cream and additional crushed candy canes for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Dissolve Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until dissolved.
3. Refrigerate until set, about 3 hours.
4. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
5. Stir in peppermint extract.
6. Fold whipped cream mixture into cooled Jell-O mixture.
7. Stir in crushed candy canes or peppermint bark.
8. Pour into individual serving cups or a large mold.
9. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (Jell-O setting time) + 2 hours (whipped cream chill time)
Winter Wonderland Blue Jello
Add a touch of winter magic to your holiday gatherings with this refreshing blue jello recipe. Perfect for a festive dessert or snack, Winter Wonderland Blue Jello is an easy and delightful treat that’s sure to bring joy to all who taste it.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened blue raspberry flavor gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Food coloring (blue)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the boiling water and let it soften for 2 minutes.
2. Add the cold water to the softened gelatin and stir until dissolved.
3. In a large bowl, combine the heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
4. Add the blue food coloring to tint the mixture to your desired shade of blue.
5. Pour the gelatin mixture into the sweetened cream and stir well to combine.
6. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
Cooking Time: 3 hours
Gingerbread House Jello Mold
Create a festive and fun dessert for your holiday gathering with this Gingerbread House Jello Mold recipe! This sweet treat is perfect for kids and adults alike, and can be customized to fit your party’s theme.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup ginger ale
– 1 cup boiling water
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Food coloring (optional)
– Crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 1 cup cold water and let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add boiling water to the gelatin mixture and stir until dissolved.
3. Stir in ginger ale, powdered sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Pour into a 9×13-inch pan or a silicone jello mold with gingerbread house shape.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
6. Unmold and garnish with crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (or overnight)
Hot Chocolate Jello Pudding
A sweet and comforting treat perfect for cold winter nights or as a special dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened instant hot chocolate mix
– 2 cups cold milk
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unflavored gelatin
– 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. In a medium saucepan, combine the boiling water and hot chocolate mix. Stir until the mixture is well combined and the powder is dissolved.
3. Add the softened gelatin to the hot chocolate mixture and stir until fully dissolved.
4. Remove from heat and add the milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved.
5. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: None (this is a no-bake dessert!)
Enjoy your rich and creamy Hot Chocolate Jello Pudding!
Christmas Wreath Lime Jello Salad
Bring festive cheer to your holiday gatherings with this refreshing and colorful Christmas Wreath Lime Jello Salad!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lime Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup crushed pineapple
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon green food coloring
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until dissolved.
3. Refrigerate until set (about 3 hours).
4. Whisk heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold into cooled Jell-O mixture.
5. Stir in crushed pineapple and chopped pecans.
6. Tint with green food coloring to achieve a festive hue.
7. Pour mixture into a ring mold or individual cups. Chill until set (about 2 hours).
8. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a wreath-like appearance.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Rudolph’s Cherry Jello Cups
Bring a festive touch to your holiday gatherings with these sweet and tangy cherry jello cups, inspired by the beloved character Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Perfect for kids’ parties or adult get-togethers, these bite-sized treats are easy to make and fun to eat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cherry Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
– 1 tablespoon grenadine syrup (optional)
– Whipped cream and additional cherries for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve Jell-O in boiling water. Add cold water and stir until completely dissolved.
2. Stir in sugar until it’s fully incorporated.
3. Fold in chopped maraschino cherries and grenadine syrup (if using).
4. Pour mixture into small cups or molds. Refrigerate until set, about 3-4 hours.
5. Top with whipped cream and additional cherries, if desired.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Frosty the Snowman Vanilla Jello
Get ready to bring a winter wonderland to your table with this classic vanilla jello recipe, inspired by the beloved snowman Frosty!
Ingredients:
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Food coloring (blue and white)
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 gelatin mixture and stir until dissolved.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine the gelatin mixture with the milk mixture and stir until smooth.
5. Add blue food coloring to tint the jello to Frosty’s signature shade.
6. Pour the jello mixture into individual serving cups or a 9×13 inch pan.
7. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until set.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a refreshing dessert perfect for any winter occasion.
Spiced Pear and Cinnamon Jello
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of pears with the warm spices of cinnamon, creating a unique and delicious jello dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1/2 cup cold water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) pear juice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
– 1 ripe pear, diced
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and let it sit for 2 minutes to soften.
2. Add the boiling water to the softened gelatin and stir until the gelatin is fully dissolved.
3. In a large bowl, combine the pear juice, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
4. Add the diced pear to the pear mixture and stir gently.
5. Pour the gelatin mixture into the pear mixture and stir until combined.
6. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a 9×13 inch pan.
7. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a refrigerated dessert.
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these deliciously easy Christmas jello recipes! From classic flavors like peppermint and eggnog to festive creations like Christmas tree layered jello and gingerbread spiced squares, there’s something for everyone. Impress your guests with a sparkly cranberry salad or a stunning winter wonderland blue jello dessert. And don’t forget the fun and playful options like candy cane jello parfait and rudolph’s cherry cups. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just looking for a tasty treat to enjoy at home, these 20 festive Christmas jello recipes are sure to bring joy to your season.
