These Christmas Jello Balls are a fun and festive treat! They’re made with colorful layers of jello, packed with sweetness and a little bounce. Perfect for holiday parties!
I love making these jello balls with the kids—it’s like a little science project in the kitchen! Plus, they’re a hit with everyone. Who can resist a colorful, wiggly bite? 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red and Green Flavored Gelatin: The flavor adds fun and color! I often use cherry for red and lime for green, but you can explore other flavors like raspberry or lemon. Be creative with colors too!
Shredded Coconut: This gives a snowy look to the jello balls. If you’re not a fan of coconut, try using crushed graham crackers or even finely chopped nuts for a different texture.
Sanding Sugar/Sprinkles: These add a festive touch! Feel free to swap them with any fun edible glitter or colored sugar you prefer. Use seasonal colors to match your holiday theme.
How Do I Get the Gelatin Balls to Set Properly?
Setting the gelatin balls can be tricky, but these tips help ensure success:
- Use the right silicone mold—half-sphere molds are perfect and make them easy to pop out.
- Make sure the gelatin mixture is well-stirred, so it fully dissolves. No one wants lumps in their jello!
- Chill them long enough—2-3 hours is usually perfect. If they feel sticky or soft, give them more time.
These little tips will help make your jello balls firm and fun, perfect for your holiday gatherings! Enjoy making these with family and friends!
Christmas Jello Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (3 oz) red flavored gelatin (such as cherry or strawberry)
- 1 package (3 oz) green flavored gelatin (such as lime)
- 1 cup boiling water (for each gelatin package)
- 1 cup cold water (for each gelatin package)
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- Red and green sanding sugar or colored sprinkles for garnish
Time Needed:
This fun recipe will take about 15 minutes of active prep time, plus 2-3 hours to chill in the refrigerator. So total, you’re looking at around 2 hours and 15 minutes to have these delightful treats ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Red Gelatin:
Start by dissolving the red flavored gelatin powder in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir well until it’s completely dissolved. Then, mix in 1 cup of cold water and set it aside. This mixture is what makes those yummy red balls!
2. Molding the Red Gelatin:
Now, pour the red gelatin mixture into half-sphere silicone molds, filling them about three-quarters full. Place the molds in the refrigerator and let them chill until they are fully set—this usually takes about 2-3 hours.
3. Preparing the Green Gelatin:
While the red gelatin is chilling, repeat the same process with the green gelatin. Dissolve the green gelatin powder in 1 cup of boiling water, stir in 1 cup of cold water, and pour it into another half-sphere mold. Refrigerate just like the red one.
4. Damping and Coating the Jello Balls:
Once your gelatin balls are fully set and firm, gently remove them from the molds. To attach the shredded coconut, lightly dampen the top half of each gelatin ball with cold water. This will help the coconut stick nicely!
5. Adding the Coconut and Sprinkles:
Now it’s time to make them festive! Dip or sprinkle the shredded coconut over the dampened tops of the gelatin balls, covering them halfway. For an extra sparkle, sprinkle some red and green sanding sugar or colored sprinkles on top of the coconut.
6. Serving the Jello Balls:
Carefully place your beautiful jello balls on a serving plate. Keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to enjoy them. They’ll look stunning on your holiday table!
Enjoy your vibrant and festive Christmas Jello Balls—cheerful, sweet, and perfect for sharing during the holidays! 🎄🍬
Can I Use Different Flavors of Gelatin?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match different flavors such as blueberry, orange, or grape to create unique combinations. Just make sure to choose colors that fit the festive theme!
How Do I Remove Jello Balls From the Molds?
To easily remove the jello balls, gently press on the bottom of the silicone mold to release them. If they stick, you can run a thin knife around the edges to help loosen them. Patience is key!
Can I Make These Jello Balls Vegan?
Yes, you can! Look for a vegan gelatin substitute, such as agar-agar, and follow the package instructions to use it in place of traditional gelatin. It will give you a similar wiggly texture!
How to Store Leftover Jello Balls?
Store any leftover jello balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for about 3-5 days. Just make sure to keep them chilled so they maintain their shape and texture!