Jello might feel like a thing of the past, but these recipes prove it still has plenty of charm. This roundup blends sweet and savory, simple and striking—offering everything from creamy parfaits to the unmistakable wobble of ribbon salad. Whether you grew up with these dishes or are just discovering them, there’s something playful and oddly comforting about each one.
Some are no-bake crowd-pleasers, others are bold throwbacks like tomato aspic or cottage cheese salad, and a few lean into modern twists—like sparkling grapefruit or berry crumble layers. These dishes can brighten a buffet, round out a potluck, or give your next dinner party a fun retro vibe.
So grab your gelatin packets, stock up on fruit, and get ready to chill—literally. Whether you’re layering, molding, or just setting it in a cup, these Jello recipes are as fun to make as they are to serve.
Retro Revival: Classic Tomato Aspic with Shrimp Salad
A savory twist on gelatin, this vintage tomato aspic is made with lemon Jello and tomato juice, served with a cold shrimp salad in the center. A bold and unexpected centerpiece from the past.
Get the Recipe: Retro Revival: Classic Tomato Aspic with Shrimp Salad
Crown Jewel Dessert
Also known as Broken Glass or Stained Glass Jello, this retro dessert features colorful cubes of Jello set into a creamy base. It’s eye-catching, fun to make, and perfect for parties.
Get the Recipe: Crown Jewel Dessert
Strawberry Jello Parfait
A simple dessert with layers of strawberry Jello and Cool Whip, chilled to perfection. It’s light, fruity, and easy to serve in individual cups.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Jello Parfait
Christmas Ribbon Salad
This vibrant layered Jello salad alternates colors and flavors for a festive presentation. A showstopper for holiday tables that tastes as cheerful as it looks.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Ribbon Salad
Jello Pudding Pops
These creamy frozen treats are made with just two ingredients—Jello pudding and milk. Nostalgic, refreshing, and incredibly easy to whip up.
Get the Recipe: Jello Pudding Pops
Orange Cottage Cheese Jello Salad
A sweet and tangy combo of mandarin oranges, cottage cheese, and orange Jello. Creamy, fruity, and a classic side that’s great for brunches and potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Orange Cottage Cheese Jello Salad
Valentine’s Day Cake Mix Cookies
A fun twist on cake mix cookies using strawberry Jello and cream cheese. Soft, pink, and perfect for Valentine’s parties or a festive baking project.
Get the Recipe: Valentine’s Day Cake Mix Cookies
Sparkling Grapefruit Jello
This homemade grapefruit Jello gets a bubbly upgrade with sparkling water. Light, tart, and ultra-refreshing—plus, you control the sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Sparkling Grapefruit Jello
Cranberry Jello Salad
A bright and fruity holiday salad made with cranberry Jello, pineapple, and oranges. It’s sweet enough for dessert but often served as a festive side.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Jello Salad
Mixed Berry Jello Dessert
This layered berry dessert features a crumbly crust and a sweet berry Jello filling. It’s easy to slice, serve, and enjoy all summer long.
Get the Recipe: Mixed Berry Jello Dessert