Layered Strawberry Jello Cups

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s equal parts fun, delicious, and visually stunning, Layered Strawberry Jello Cups are the perfect choice! These colorful treats are ideal for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion, especially when served in glasses for a touch of elegance. Today, I’m sharing this delightful recipe, along with tips and variations, to help you create a show-stopping dessert your loved ones will adore.

Why I Love Jello Parfaits

Parfaits are my go-to desserts for several reasons:

1. Mess-free Serving: Individual cups mean no messy scooping or plating.
2. Perfect Portions: Everyone gets their own serving, making it easy to plan for parties.
3. Layered Deliciousness: The combination of textures and flavors in every bite is irresistible.

This strawberry jello parfait recipe is particularly great for Valentine’s Day. The bright red layers and fluffy whipped cream topping scream romance, while the simplicity of the recipe keeps stress out of the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make six servings of these layered jello cups, gather the following:

• 5 boxes of strawberry jello mix (3 oz each)
• Water (boiling and cold)
• 2 cups Cool Whip (plus extra for topping)
• Fresh strawberries (for garnish)

Optional Add-Ins:

• Fresh fruit like kiwi, blueberries, or raspberries to layer between the jello.
• Swap strawberry jello for flavors like raspberry, cherry, or watermelon to suit your taste.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Jello Cups

These jello parfait cups are all about the layers. While they’re simple to prepare, they require patience since each layer must set before adding the next.

1: Classic Jello

1. Mix 1 cup of boiling water with one packet of jello. Stir until dissolved.
2. Add 1 cup of cold water and stir.
3. Pour evenly into six glasses and refrigerate until set (1-2 hours).

2: Creamy Jello

1. Repeat the process for Layer 1 but mix in 1 cup of Cool Whip after dissolving the jello.
2. Pour this creamy mixture on top of the first layer. Chill for 1-2 hours.

3: Repeat the Process

1. Make another plain jello layer as in Layer 1.
2. Add this on top of the creamy layer and refrigerate again for 1-2 hours.

4: Another Creamy Layer

1. Repeat Layer 2 to create another creamy layer.
2. Chill until fully set.

5: Final Jello Layer

1. Add one last plain jello layer to top it off.
2. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours until firm.

Final Touches

• Just before serving, top each parfait with a dollop of Cool Whip and a fresh strawberry.

Tips for Perfect Layered Jello Cups

1. Choose the Right Glasses:
   • Use 15 oz glasses for large servings or 5 oz glasses for party-sized portions.
   • Smaller glasses make the dessert stretch further for large gatherings.
2. Time Management:
   • Each layer takes 1-2 hours to set, so plan ahead. I recommend making these parfaits over two days for stress-free preparation.
3. Add Fruits Creatively:
   • To include fresh fruit between layers, wait until the jello is slightly set to prevent the fruit from sinking.
4. Cover to Protect:
   • If storing overnight, cover the glasses with plastic wrap to keep the dessert fresh and prevent fridge odors from affecting the taste.

Variations to Try

The beauty of this recipe is how easily it can be customized. Here are some ideas:

• Different Flavors: Swap strawberry for cherry, raspberry, or mixed berry jello.
• Layer Colors: Use different jello flavors to create a rainbow effect.
• Dairy-Free Option: Replace Cool Whip with coconut whipped cream or another non-dairy alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Homemade Whipped Cream?

Absolutely! Replace Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream for a richer taste. Beat 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of sugar until stiff peaks form.

How Long Can I Store Jello Cups?

These jello cups for a party last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. For the best flavor and texture, consume within 48 hours.

Can I Make Them in Advance?

Yes, these parfaits are perfect for preparing ahead of time. Just add the final whipped cream and garnish before serving.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 307 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 70g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 1g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Sugar: 65g

Related Recipes You’ll Love

Looking for more dessert inspiration? Check out these reader favorites:

• Which Type of Cake is Best for a Birthday?
• Kool-Aid Pie Recipe
• Strawberry Angel Food Dessert

Final Thoughts

These layered strawberry jello cups are sure to impress, whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or hosting a fun gathering. They’re easy to make, customizable, and so pretty to serve. Plus, kids and adults alike will love them.

If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments how it turned out. Don’t forget to pin this post on Pinterest for your next dessert idea. Happy layering!

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