Worms
Sweet, gelatinous worm-like treats that burst with fruity flavor, perfect for Halloween parties or playful dessert lovers. They’re easy to make and visually striking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the Jell-O, gelatin and boiling water in a bowl. Stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
- Chill the mixture until lukewarm, about 20 minutes.
- While the Jell-O cools, unwrap and extend the straws. Place them upright in an empty, clean milk carton.
- Blend the whipping cream, green food coloring and the lukewarm gelatin mixture.
- Pour the blended mixture into the milk container, filling the straws.
- Refrigerate for at least 8 hours.
- Remove the carton from the straws and pull the straws apart.
- Run hot tap water over 3–4 straws for 2 seconds at a time, starting at the empty end.
- Push the worms out of the straws.
- Lay the worms on wax paper-lined cookie sheets, cover and chill for at least 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the gelatin mixture. If you want to experiment with colors, try using blue or yellow food coloring instead of green. Ensure your straws are clean and dry before use to avoid any contamination. If you don't have straws, you can pour the mixture into silicone molds for fun shapes.
Serving Suggestions
These gummy worms make a fun and whimsical dessert for parties or Halloween gatherings. Serve them on a platter lined with crushed cookies to resemble dirt or pair them with a bowl of whipped cream for dipping. They also complement other fun desserts like Cobana Bars or Crisp Pie Crust, creating a festive dessert table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover worms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. This recipe sets well, so there is no need to reheat. Simply enjoy them chilled straight from the fridge, or let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for a softer texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Worms contains roughly 1450 calories, with 15g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 111g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (137% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (78% of the Daily Value), and potassium (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber.
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 other than raspberry or grape?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other Jell-O flavors like orange or lime to create different color and taste combinations. Just keep in mind that the color of the food coloring may affect the final appearance, so choose complementary shades for a vibrant display.
What if I don't have unflavored gelatin?
If you don't have unflavored gelatin, you can substitute it with agar-agar, a plant-based alternative. Use the same amount as you would for gelatin, but be sure to dissolve it in boiling water as directed, as agar-agar has different setting properties and may require additional adjustments.
Can I make these worms vegan?
Yes, you can make vegan gummy worms by using agar-agar instead of gelatin. Follow the same steps with agar-agar, ensuring to use non-dairy whipping cream or coconut cream for blending. This way, you can enjoy a delicious treat that fits vegetarian recipes and 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).