Broken Glass Cake

Prep: 30 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Broken Glass Cake is a vibrant, colorful dessert featuring layered and jellied cubes that resemble shattered glass. Its fruity flavors and creamy texture make it perfect for celebrations or a fun summer treat, appealing to both kids and adults who enjoy visually stunning, refreshing desserts.

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Ingredients

  • 4 boxes assorted flavored Jell-O
  • 2 envelopes Knox gelatine
  • 1 cup hot pineapple juice
  • 2 cups whipped cream
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 20 crushed graham crackers
  • 1/2 cup butter or margarine

Instructions

  1. Dissolve each box of Jell-O in 1 1/2 cups hot water and pour into a square pan to set.
  2. Dissolve Knox gelatine in 1/4 cup cold water, then add hot pineapple juice and refrigerate until cooled.
  3. In a bowl, fold whipped cream, sugar, and vanilla into the cooled gelatine mixture.
  4. Cut the set Jell-O into small cubes and fold into the whipped cream mixture.
  5. Press half of the crushed graham crackers mixed with melted butter or margarine into the bottom of a buttered pan to form a crust.
  6. Pour the Jell-O mixture over the crust, then sprinkle the remaining crust over the top.
  7. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight until set.
  8. Once set, run the pan briefly in hot water for 1-2 seconds and invert to remove the cake.
  9. Cut into small squares and serve.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the flavor of your Broken Glass Cake, consider using flavored sparkling water instead of plain water for the Jell-O. If you want a lighter version, substitute half the whipped cream with Greek yogurt. Make sure to allow enough time for the Jell-O to fully set; overnight is best. For a fun twist, try mixing in seasonal fruit or using colored Jell-O to match a holiday theme.

Serving Suggestions

Cut the cake into small squares and serve as a delightful dessert at parties or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh fruit or mint leaves. This dessert is perfect for potlucks or summer barbecues, offering a refreshing treat that everyone will love.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake is best enjoyed cold, but if it has softened, you can chill it in the fridge for a bit before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change once thawed.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Broken Glass Cake contains roughly 105 calories, with 1g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value).

105 kcal 5% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.5g 3% DV
Total Fat 2.3g 3% DV
Carbs 20.1g 7% DV
Fiber 2.1g 8% DV
Sugar 4.6g 9% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 87.3mg 4% DV
Potassium 116.6mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 1.3mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.1mcg
Vitamin C 12.8mg 14% DV
Calcium 53mg 4% DV
Iron 0.6mg 3% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use sugar-free Jell-O for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute sugar-free Jell-O, but the texture may vary slightly. The flavor will still be delicious, making it a great option for those looking to reduce sugar intake. Just ensure to maintain the same amount of liquid as indicated in the recipe.

What variations can I make to the flavors of this cake?

Feel free to experiment with different Jell-O flavors to create your own unique combinations. Mixing tropical flavors like pineapple and coconut can add a refreshing twist. You can also add a layer of cream cheese mixture for a richer taste, similar to what you’d find in a Cream Cheese Pie.

How can I make the cake more colorful?

Using a variety of Jell-O flavors will naturally create a vibrant appearance. You can also layer different colors in the pan for a striped effect or cut the Jell-O into different shapes before mixing. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a fun element to the dessert.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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