Nothing says "celebrate" quite like a festive dessert, and this layered red, white, and blue gelatin is a true showstopper. It's a fun, jiggly, and visually stunning treat that brings a wave of nostalgia and patriotism to any party. While it may look intricate, this dessert is surprisingly easy to make. The secret is patience—allowing each layer to set up perfectly before adding the next one.

This dessert is a celebration of simple flavors and a vibrant presentation. The distinct layers of cherry and berry gelatin are beautifully contrasted with a creamy, opaque white layer that gives it a delightful texture. It's a sweet and refreshing treat that is perfect for summer holidays, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a little bit of extra fun.

Festive Red, White, and Blue Gelatin Layers

A Fun Dessert Idea

Yields: 8-10 servings

Prep time: 20 minutes

Chill time: 6-8 hours

Ingredients

  • 1 (3-ounce) box of red gelatin (cherry, strawberry, or raspberry)

  • 1 (3-ounce) box of blue gelatin (berry blue or blue raspberry)

  • For the White Layer:

    • 1 (3-ounce) box of unflavored gelatin

    • ½ cup cold water

    • 1 (14-ounce) can of sweetened condensed milk

    • 1 ½ cups boiling water

Instructions

1. Make the Blue Layer

  1. In a medium bowl, add the blue gelatin mix.

  2. Add 1 cup of boiling water and whisk until the gelatin is completely dissolved.

  3. Add 1 cup of cold water and whisk again.

  4. Pour the blue gelatin mixture into a 9x13-inch clear glass dish or a set of individual glasses.

  5. Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or until the layer is firm but still slightly sticky.

2. Make the Creamy White Layer

  1. While the blue layer is chilling, prepare the white layer. In a medium bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over the ½ cup of cold water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom.

  2. Add the 1 ½ cups of boiling water to the bloomed gelatin and whisk until the gelatin is completely dissolved.

  3. Slowly whisk in the entire can of sweetened condensed milk. The mixture will turn a beautiful opaque white.

  4. Let the mixture cool to room temperature before pouring. If it's too warm, it will melt the blue layer.

3. Build the Layers

  1. Once the blue layer is firm, gently and slowly pour about half of the cooled white mixture over the blue layer.

  2. Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or until the white layer is firm.

  3. While the white layer is chilling, prepare the red gelatin mix just like you did the blue: whisk the red gelatin with 1 cup of boiling water, then 1 cup of cold water. Let it cool to room temperature.

  4. Once the white layer is firm, gently and slowly pour the cooled red gelatin mixture over the white layer.

  5. Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or until the red layer is firm.

  6. Finally, pour the remaining white mixture over the red layer.

  7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the entire dessert is completely firm.

4. Serve

  • Serve the gelatin in the dish or individual cups. You can cut the dessert into squares if using a baking dish.

  • Garnish with fresh whipped cream and berries if desired.

Pro-Tips for Perfect Layers

  • Be Patient: This is the most important tip. Rushing the chilling process will cause the layers to bleed into each other, ruining the clean lines.

  • The "Tacky" Test: The layers are ready for the next one when they are firm enough to touch without sticking to your finger, but still slightly "tacky" to the touch.

  • Cool the Layers: Always let the next gelatin mixture cool to room temperature before pouring it over a set layer. A warm liquid will melt the layer underneath.

  • Use a Spoon: To pour the new layer without creating a dent, place a spoon just above the surface of the existing layer, and slowly pour the liquid onto the back of the spoon.

  • A Fun Twist: For a more whimsical look, you can pour the second and third layers at an angle by propping up one side of the dish with a bowl or towel.