Christmas Ribbon Jello

It seems to be the case with so many holiday foods that their allure is as much about nostalgia as it is deliciousness, and this layered vintage Christmas jello innovation is no exception. You might remember your mom or grandmother serving this up in holiday seasons past, but it’s high time we brought this festive jiggler back.

If you aren’t lucky enough to have had this delight before, let me tell you what it’s all about. It all starts with a layer of lime jello…

… And that layer is topped with a mixture of lemon jello, pineapple juice, cream cheese, and melted marshmallows that is this wonderfully creamy contrast to the layers surrounding it.

That is finally topped with another layer of jello, this time red – usually cherry or cranberry.

And then it chills until it’s set and sliceable and oh-so-festive.

The contrast in flavors and textures works really well, even if you’re not particularly into jiggly desserts. It’s retro, sure, but it has its place in modern-day celebrations!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Christmas Ribbon Jello is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a feast for the eyes too. The vibrant layers of green, white, and red make it a perfect centerpiece for your holiday table. Plus, the contrast of flavors—from the tangy lime to the creamy middle layer and the sweet cherry topping—creates a delightful taste experience. It’s a nostalgic nod to classic holiday desserts, guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone’s face.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch dish
• Electric mixer
• Medium bowl
• Small saucepan
• Spatula

Ingredients

• 2 (3 oz) boxes of cherry or cranberry jello
• 2 (3 oz) boxes of lime jello
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (3 oz) package lemon jello
• 3 cups mini marshmallows
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice
• 5 1/2 cups hot (not boiling) water

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Grease a 9×13-inch dish and set aside.
2. Add 2 1/2 cups hot water to a bowl and pour in the two packages of lime jello. Stir to dissolve and pour into prepared pan. Chill in refrigerator until completely firm.
3. In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Set aside. Dissolve lemon jello in 1 1/2 cups hot water and set aside.
4. In a small saucepan over medium heat, stir together mini marshmallows and pineapple juice until melted and smooth.
5. Pour into cream cheese mixture along with lemon jello mixture. Beat until very smooth, scraping down bowl frequently.
6. Set aside and let cool for 30 minutes, then pour over firm lime layer in a careful side-to-side motion. Refrigerate until set before adding the next layer.
7. Stir red jello into 2 1/2 cups hot water until dissolved. Let cool for 30 minutes before slowly pouring over cream cheese layer in a careful back-and-forth motion. Refrigerate until set.
8. Slice into squares to serve. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Ensure each layer is fully set before adding the next to prevent mixing of colors.
• Use very hot tap water for dissolving jello; boiling water can affect the texture.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For a fun twist, swap the pineapple juice with orange juice for a citrusy flavor.
• Consider using different jello flavors to match your personal taste or holiday theme.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 180 | Protein: 3g | Carbohydrates: 30g | Fat: 6g | Sugar: 20g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, Christmas Ribbon Jello can be made 2-3 days in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until serving.

Can I use sugar-free jello? Absolutely! Sugar-free jello works well and is a great option for reducing sugar content.

Conclusion

This Christmas Ribbon Jello is a delightful throwback to holidays past and a perfect addition to any festive gathering. Its vibrant layers and creamy texture make it a showstopper that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. I hope you give it a try and share your experiences in the comments below. Happy holidays!