Layered Ribbon Jello

Prep: 30 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A vibrant layered Jello dessert with citrus and creamy flavors, perfect for summer gatherings or festive occasions, appealing to those who enjoy colorful, refreshing treats.

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Ingredients

  • 1 small lime Jell-O
  • 1 small orange Jell-O
  • 1 small lemon Jell-O
  • 1 small strawberry Jell-O
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup sugar

Instructions

  1. Dissolve lime Jell-O in 1 cup boiling water; add 1/2 cup cold water.
  2. Pour the lime Jell-O mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan and refrigerate until set.
  3. Bring 2 cups of milk to a boil; add 1 cup sugar and stir until dissolved.
  4. Dissolve 2 envelopes Knox gelatine in 1/2 cup cold water, then add to the milk and sugar mixture.
  5. Add 2 cups sour cream and 2 teaspoons vanilla to the mixture and blend well.
  6. Allow the mixture to cool before pouring over the set Jell-O layer.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, allow each Jell-O layer to set completely before adding the next; this may take a few hours. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. You can also substitute other flavors of Jell-O to create a unique twist! Experimenting with flavors can lead to delightful variations, similar to those in American recipes.

Serving Suggestions

This layered ribbon jello is a festive dessert perfect for gatherings and pairs beautifully with Buttermilk Puffs or a light fruit salad. Serve it chilled for a refreshing treat that's sure to impress your guests. For an extra touch, consider garnishing with whipped cream or fresh fruit to enhance its presentation.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture, avoid freezing the layered jello, as it can alter the consistency. When serving leftovers, you can enjoy them cold straight from the fridge or let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Layered Ribbon Jello contains roughly 81 calories, with 1g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.

81 kcal 4% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.1g 2% DV
Total Fat 1g 1% DV
Carbs 13g 5% DV
Fiber 0.6g 2% DV
Sugar 5.5g 11% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 46.2mg 2% DV
Potassium 94.8mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 1.3mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 22.2mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 6.9mg 8% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 52.3mg 4% DV
Iron 0.7mg 4% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk

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 different flavors of Jell-O?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite Jell-O flavors to create a unique dessert. Just ensure that the colors complement each other for a visually appealing layered effect. Popular combinations include grape and cherry or tropical flavors like pineapple and mango.

How long does it take for the layers to set?

Each layer of Jell-O usually needs about 2-4 hours to set completely in the refrigerator. To ensure perfect layering, be patient and check each layer before adding the next to avoid mixing.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes! This dessert can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to cover it well with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge. It's a great make-ahead option for parties!

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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