Stained Glass Jello

Published: June 16, 2025

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Eye-catching presentation: The colorful layers create beautiful, star-shaped treats that are perfect for festive occasions.
Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this delightful dessert.
Versatile flavor options: Swap out the Jello flavors to suit your preferences or seasonal themes, making it suitable for various events.
Kid-friendly fun: This recipe is a great way to involve children in the kitchen, letting them mix colors and create their own designs.
No baking required: Enjoy a delicious dessert without turning on the oven, perfect for warm summer days!

Tools and Preparation

To create your Stained Glass Jello, you’ll need some basic tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Loaf pans or small pans
Plastic wrap
Mixing bowls
Jelly roll pan or 9×13-inch pan
Whisk or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Loaf pans: These help shape your Jello blocks evenly for cutting later.
Plastic wrap: Prevents sticking and makes transferring the Jello easier.
Whisk or spoon: Essential for thoroughly mixing the gelatin and ensuring no lumps remain.

Ingredients

These red, white & blue stained glass Jello stars are a fun and easy addition to your 4th of July celebration!

6 ounce box strawberry Jello
6 ounce box berry blue Jello
14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk
2 envelopes unflavored Vegan Gelatin
5½ cups boiling water (divided)
½ cup cold water

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Stained Glass Jello

Step 1: Prepare the Jello Layers

Line four loaf pans with plastic wrap.
In four separate bowls, dissolve one box of Jello in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir for 2 minutes until completely dissolved.
Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature before pouring into prepared pans.
Chill for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.

Step 2: Cut the Jello Blocks

Turn out the chilled Jello onto a cutting board.
Slice into ½-inch blocks using a sharp knife.

Step 3: Mix the Blocks Together

Add the blocks to a jelly roll pan or lined 9×13-inch pan.
Gently spread them into an even layer while mixing colors for an appealing design.

Step 4: Prepare the Milk Mixture

In a large bowl, sprinkle 2 envelopes of unflavored Vegan Gelatin into ½ cup cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Once bloomed, add 1½ cups boiling water and stir until dissolved.
Mix in the sweetened condensed milk until well combined, then let it cool to room temperature.

Step 5: Combine and Chill Again

Pour the cooled milk mixture over the colored Jello blocks in the pan.
Chill overnight or at least for 3 hours until firm.

Step 6: Serve Your Delightful Treats

Once set, cut into blocks or desired shapes and serve!

How to Serve Stained Glass Jello

Stained Glass Jello is a delightful treat that brightens up any gathering, especially during festive occasions like the 4th of July. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your presentation stand out.

Individual Cups

Use clear plastic cups to serve individual portions of Stained Glass Jello. This makes it easy for guests to grab and enjoy while mingling.

Jello Stars

Cut the chilled Jello into star shapes using cookie cutters. These fun shapes are perfect for adding a festive touch to your holiday table.

Layered Desserts

Create layered desserts by alternating layers of Stained Glass Jello with whipped cream or yogurt in a glass dish. This adds texture and visual appeal.

Parfait Style

Serve Stained Glass Jello in parfait glasses with layers of fruit. Berries complement the colors beautifully and enhance the flavor profile.

Jello Cake

Incorporate bits of Stained Glass Jello into a cake batter before baking for a colorful surprise inside. This adds a unique twist to traditional cakes.

Party Platter

Arrange assorted pieces of Stained Glass Jello on a large platter, garnished with fresh mint leaves or berries. This makes an eye-catching centerpiece for your dessert table.

How to Perfect Stained Glass Jello

For the best results when making Stained Glass Jello, follow these helpful tips:

Use boiling water: Ensure that you dissolve the gelatin properly by using boiling water, which helps achieve that perfect texture.
Allow cooling time: Let the individual colors cool completely before combining them. This prevents them from melting into each other.
Chill thoroughly: For optimal firmness, chill the assembled dish overnight. Patience pays off in achieving the best consistency.
Experiment with flavors: Mix and match different flavors of Jello to create unique color combinations that suit your taste preferences.
Presentation matters: Consider using decorative molds or dishes for serving, as this can elevate the overall look of your dessert.
Add toppings: Enhance flavor and texture by adding toppings like whipped cream, fruit slices, or even edible glitter for a festive touch.

Best Side Dishes for Stained Glass Jello

Stained Glass Jello pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its sweet flavor and vibrant colors. Here are some great options:

Fruit Salad
A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the jello, providing a healthy contrast.
Cheese Platter
An assortment of cheeses can add richness and depth to your dessert spread, creating a savory-sweet experience.
Veggie Tray
Crisp vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers provide crunch and balance against the creamy jello.
Mini Sandwiches
Light sandwiches filled with cucumber or chicken salad can serve as a delightful accompaniment, perfect for casual gatherings.
Deviled Eggs
These classic finger foods are savory bites that offer variety alongside the sweetness of Stained Glass Jello.
Potato Salad
A creamy potato salad provides comfort and complements the lightness of your dessert with its hearty nature.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Stained Glass Jello can be a delightful experience, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome.

Skipping the Cooling Step: Allowing the Jello to cool completely before cutting is crucial. If you cut it too early, it may not hold its shape well.
Not Using Enough Boiling Water: Ensure you use the right amount of boiling water when dissolving the Jello. Too little can lead to improperly set Jello blocks.
Overmixing the Gelatin Mixture: When you’re combining the Vegan Gelatin with water, avoid overmixing after it has bloomed. Just gently stir until combined to maintain a smooth texture.
Using Non-Flavorful Containers: The choice of containers matters. Using dull or non-flavorful pans can affect the taste and presentation of your Stained Glass Jello. Opt for clear or colorful pans to enhance visual appeal.
Chilling for Too Short a Time: Be patient! Chilling overnight ensures that your Jello is firm enough for cutting. Rushing this step may result in soggy Jello.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in airtight containers to keep freshness.
It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Make sure it’s fully set before transferring to avoid messes.

Freezing Stained Glass Jello

Freezing is not recommended as it can change texture upon thawing.
If you must freeze, place in freezer-safe containers.
Consume within 1 month if frozen, but for best results, enjoy fresh.

Reheating Stained Glass Jello

Oven: Preheat to low temperature; cover with foil and warm gently, but this method is not preferred.
Microwave: Use low power; heat in short intervals and stir frequently to avoid melting.
Stovetop: Place in a saucepan with a little water on low heat; stir gently until just warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Stained Glass Jello?

Stained Glass Jello is a colorful dessert made from different flavored gelatin blocks arranged together and set in a creamy layer. It’s visually striking and perfect for festive occasions.

How do I customize my Stained Glass Jello?

You can customize your Stained Glass Jello by using different flavor combinations of Jello or by adding fruits like berries or citrus slices for added texture and taste.

Can I make Stained Glass Jello ahead of time?

Yes! You can make Stained Glass Jello up to two days in advance. Just store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve it.

Is Stained Glass Jello suitable for vegans?

Yes! This recipe uses unflavored Vegan Gelatin, making it suitable for vegans. Always check ingredient labels to ensure all components are plant-based.

Final Thoughts

The vibrant colors and creamy layers of Stained Glass Jello make it an eye-catching dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, especially celebrations like the 4th of July. Its versatility allows for endless customization options, whether you want to switch up flavors or add fun toppings. Give this recipe a try and impress your guests with this delightful treat!

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