Description
This Easy Layered Christmas Jello recipe features vibrant lime and cherry layers separated by a creamy gelatin and cream cheese mixture, creating a festive and colorful dessert perfect for holiday gatherings. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it combines the tartness of fruit-flavored Jello with a smooth, creamy middle layer, making it a delightful treat that’s both visually appealing and delicious.
Ingredients
Jello Layers
- 1 box lime Jello (3 oz)
- 1 box cherry or strawberry Jello (3 oz)
- 2 cups boiling water (divided: 1 cup per Jello layer)
- 2 cups cold water (divided: 1 cup per Jello layer)
Cream Layer
- 1 packet unflavored gelatin (0.25 oz)
- 1/4 cup cold water (for blooming gelatin)
- 1 cup boiling water (for dissolving gelatin)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
Optional Toppings
- Crushed peppermint
- Festive sprinkles
- Red candies
Instructions
- Prepare the Lime Jello Layer: Dissolve the lime Jello powder in 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved. Add 1 cup of cold water, mix well, then pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch dish. Refrigerate for 1 hour or until fully set.
- Bloom the Unflavored Gelatin: Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes to soften and absorb the liquid.
- Dissolve the Bloomed Gelatin: Add 1 cup of boiling water to the bloomed gelatin and stir until fully dissolved to create the gelatin base for the cream layer.
- Prepare the Cream Layer: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the dissolved gelatin mixture to the cream cheese, blending thoroughly. Fold in the whipped topping gently until well combined.
- Assemble the Cream Layer: Carefully spread the cream cheese and gelatin mixture over the chilled lime Jello layer. Return to the refrigerator and chill for another hour or until set.
- Prepare the Cherry or Strawberry Jello Layer: Dissolve the cherry or strawberry Jello powder in 1 cup boiling water, then add 1 cup cold water. Allow the mixture to cool slightly—do not let it set.
- Add the Final Jello Layer: Gently pour the cooled cherry or strawberry Jello layer over the set cream layer, being careful not to disturb it. Refrigerate for 2 hours or until the entire layered Jello is firm.
- Serve: Cut the layered Jello into squares and garnish with optional crushed peppermint, festive sprinkles, or red candies before serving to add a seasonal touch.
Notes
- For best results, be sure each layer is fully set before adding the next to maintain clean, distinct layers.
- Softened cream cheese is easier to blend; leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting.
- If the final Jello layer sets too quickly and causes lumps when poured, allow it to cool a bit longer before pouring.
- This dessert can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated until serving.
- Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water to get clean, neat cuts.