Ribbon Jello Mold

Prep: 30 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 12

A colorful and creamy layered gelatin dessert featuring vibrant fruit-flavored Jell-O layers, interspersed with rich sour cream and vanilla. Perfect for festive occasions or potlucks, it offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that appeal to both children and adults alike.

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Ingredients

  • 2 envelopes plain gelatin
  • 1/2 cup cold water
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla
  • 2 cups sour cream
  • 1 package lime Jell-O

Instructions

  1. Let plain gelatin soften in cold water.
  2. Boil milk with sugar. Add gelatin; let cool a little and add vanilla and sour cream. Beat well and keep warm.
  3. Mix each package of Jell-O with 1 1/2 cups hot water.
  4. Pour 1 cup of sour cream mixture into the prepared dish and let it set until jelled.
  5. Add a layer of one flavored Jell-O and let it set. Repeat with remaining Jell-O flavors, layering with sour cream mixture, until the mold is filled.
  6. Chill the mold until fully set before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of citrus juice to the sour cream mixture. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute the lime Jell-O with any other flavor you prefer. For a more colorful presentation, use multiple flavors of Jell-O layered in the mold. Ensure each layer is fully set before adding the next to prevent mixing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Ribbon Jello Mold chilled, garnished with fresh fruit or mint leaves for a refreshing touch. It pairs beautifully with Hawaiian 24 Hour Fruit Salad for a festive brunch. Consider adding a dollop of whipped cream on the side for an extra creamy texture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Ribbon Jello Mold can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you need to reheat, it's best to allow it to come to room temperature and serve chilled. Avoid freezing as it may change the texture of the sour cream and gelatin.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Ribbon Jello Mold contains roughly 371 calories, with 4g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of iron (14% of the Daily Value), calcium (14% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value).

371 kcal 19% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.5g 9% DV
Total Fat 4.5g 6% DV
Carbs 55.7g 20% DV
Fiber 0.7g 2% DV
Sugar 40.9g 82% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 229.6mg 10% DV
Potassium 201.6mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 2.5mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 76.2mcg 8% DV
Vitamin C 10.9mg 12% DV
Vitamin D 0.7mcg 3% DV
Calcium 175.5mg 14% DV
Iron 2.6mg 14% DV
Diet fit 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 flavored gelatin instead of plain?

Using flavored gelatin instead of plain can alter the taste and texture of the final product. It's best to stick with plain gelatin for the sour cream layer to maintain the intended flavor profile. However, feel free to experiment with flavored Jell-O layers for a fun twist!

How long does it take for the Jello mold to set?

Typically, the Jello mold will take about 4-6 hours to fully set in the refrigerator. For best results, consider making it a day ahead of time. This allows all layers to gel properly and ensures a clean slice when serving.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can make a dairy-free version of the Ribbon Jello Mold. Substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative, such as almond or coconut milk, and replace sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt. Ensure that the gelatin used is also suitable for your dietary preferences.

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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