Layered Festive Gelatin Delight
This vibrant Layered Festive Gelatin Delight is a nostalgic favorite, reminiscent of family gatherings and holiday celebrations. Inspired by the classic Jell-O Ribbon Salad from the timeless Joys of Jell-O recipe book, this dish combines colorful layers of fruity gelatin with a creamy, dreamy filling that is sure to impress your guests. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or any special occasion, this delightful salad combines the sweetness of marshmallows and fruit with the richness of cream cheese and whipped cream, creating a refreshing treat that's as beautiful as it is delicious. Your holidays and celebrations won't feel complete without this iconic dish gracing your table!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
lime Jell-O gelatin
1 package (3 ounces) (Dissolve in boiling water)
raspberry Jell-O gelatin
1 package (3 ounces) (Dissolve in boiling water)
lemon Jell-O gelatin
1 package (3 ounces) (Dissolve in boiling water)
boiling water
3 cups (Used for dissolving Jell-O)
mini marshmallows
1 cup (Add to lemon gelatin mixture)
cold water
1 1/2 cups (Used to mix with the gelatin flavors)
cream cheese
2 packages (3 ounces each) (Softened for blending)
mayonnaise
1/2 cup (To be mixed into the cream cheese layer)
whipped cream
1 cup (To be mixed into the cream cheese layer)
crushed pineapple
1 can (20 1/2 ounces), drained (To be mixed into the cream cheese layer)
Instructions
1
Start by dissolving each flavor of Jell-O separately in a bowl using 1 cup of boiling water for each 3-ounce package. Stir well until fully dissolved.
2
In a separate bowl, add the mini marshmallows to the lemon Jell-O mixture and set aside to cool slightly.
3
In a 13x9x2 inch pan, pour the lime gelatin mixture mixed with 3/4 cup of cold water, and chill in the refrigerator until it is set but still slightly soft to the touch.
4
Next, prepare the raspberry gelatin by mixing it with 3/4 cup of cold water and letting it sit at room temperature.
5
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the lemon and marshmallow mixture and beat until smooth and well blended.
6
Stir in the mayonnaise, whipped cream, and crushed pineapple into the cream cheese mixture until well combined. Chill this mixture until it thickens slightly.
7
Once the cream cheese mixture is thick, spoon it gently over the set lime gelatin layer, spreading evenly.
8
Return the pan to the refrigerator and chill until it is set but still slightly soft.
9
Meanwhile, refrigerate the raspberry gelatin until it thickens to a syrupy consistency.
10
Once thickened, gently pour the raspberry gelatin layer over the cream cheese layer and refrigerate until firm.
11
To serve, cut the layered gelatin into squares and enjoy this delightful, refreshing treat.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Layered Festive Gelatin Delight?
It is a vibrant, nostalgic Jell-O dessert inspired by the classic Ribbon Salad, featuring colorful fruity layers and a creamy pineapple filling.
What flavors of Jell-O are used in this recipe?
The recipe requires three flavors: lime Jell-O, raspberry Jell-O, and lemon Jell-O.
How many layers does this gelatin salad have?
This dish consists of three distinct layers: a lime base, a creamy lemon-pineapple center, and a raspberry top.
What size pan should be used for the Layered Festive Gelatin Delight?
A 13x9x2 inch pan is recommended for setting the layers properly.
How much boiling water is needed for each gelatin package?
Each 3-ounce package of Jell-O should be dissolved in 1 cup of boiling water.
When should the mini marshmallows be added?
The mini marshmallows are added to the lemon Jell-O mixture while it is cooling slightly.
What is the base layer made of?
The bottom layer is made of lime Jell-O mixed with 3/4 cup of cold water.
What ingredients are in the creamy middle layer?
The middle layer contains lemon Jell-O, marshmallows, cream cheese, mayonnaise, whipped cream, and crushed pineapple.
Does the crushed pineapple need to be drained?
Yes, the recipe specifies using one 20 1/2 ounce can of crushed pineapple, well-drained.
How do you prepare the raspberry layer?
Dissolve the raspberry gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water, mix with 3/4 cup of cold water, and let it sit until it reaches a syrupy consistency.
How do you ensure the layers stay separate?
Each layer must be chilled until it is set but still slightly soft to the touch before adding the next layer.
Is mayonnaise really used in this recipe?
Yes, mayonnaise is a traditional ingredient in vintage ribbon salads, adding richness and a subtle tang to the creamy layer.
What type of cream cheese is used?
The recipe calls for two 3-ounce packages of cream cheese, softened for easier blending.
How should the Layered Festive Gelatin Delight be served?
Once fully set and firm, the gelatin should be cut into squares and served chilled.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
It is best to use canned pineapple as fresh pineapple contains enzymes that can prevent gelatin from setting properly.
How much cold water is used in total?
The recipe uses 1 1/2 cups of cold water: 3/4 cup for the lime layer and 3/4 cup for the raspberry layer.
What is the first step of the recipe?
The first step is to dissolve each flavor of Jell-O separately in a bowl using 1 cup of boiling water for each 3-ounce package.
How do you blend the cream cheese layer?
Beat the softened cream cheese with the lemon and marshmallow mixture until smooth, then stir in the mayonnaise, whipped cream, and pineapple.
Is this a good recipe for potlucks?
Yes, its festive appearance and ease of serving in squares make it perfect for potlucks, parties, and family gatherings.
What is the role of the lemon Jell-O?
The lemon Jell-O acts as the binding flavor and setting agent for the creamy marshmallow and fruit center layer.
How long does the dish need to refrigerate?
Each layer needs to be chilled until set, and the final dish should be refrigerated until firm, which usually takes several hours or overnight.
Can I use different flavors of gelatin?
While lime and raspberry provide a festive look, you can substitute other flavors as long as you maintain the same measurements.
What gives the middle layer its fluffy texture?
The combination of marshmallows and 1 cup of whipped cream provides the creamy, light texture of the middle layer.
Is this recipe considered a dessert or a salad?
In vintage American cuisine, this is often categorized as a gelatin salad, though it is sweet enough to be served as a dessert.
How many ingredients are in the Layered Festive Gelatin Delight?
There are 10 ingredients: 3 types of Jell-O, boiling water, marshmallows, cold water, cream cheese, mayonnaise, whipped cream, and crushed pineapple.
Can I make this recipe in a gelatin mold?
While designed for a 13x9 pan, it can be prepared in a mold if you ensure each layer is sufficiently set before adding the next.
What should I do if my gelatin isn't setting?
Ensure you used the correct water ratios and allowed enough time in the refrigerator; avoid using fresh pineapple which interferes with setting.
How do I get clean slices when serving?
Using a sharp knife dipped in warm water can help create clean, sharp edges when cutting the gelatin into squares.
What is the inspiration for this recipe?
It is inspired by the classic Jell-O Ribbon Salad from the timeless 'Joys of Jell-O' recipe book.
Is this recipe suitable for the holidays?
Absolutely, the red and green layers make it a particularly popular choice for Christmas and other festive holiday celebrations.