Bright, colorful, and just a little bit nostalgic, these Jello-based recipes bring fun and flavor to your table with minimal effort. Whether you’re making a fruit-studded salad or a layered dessert, there’s something playful about gelatin dishes that never goes out of style.
Many of these recipes come from the handwritten index card era—passed down through generations and still just as loved today. They’re perfect for holidays, potlucks, themed parties, or when you’re just in the mood for something cool, sweet, and familiar. And the best part? Most of them are no-bake and easy to prep ahead.
So whether you’re aiming for a whimsical layered parfait, a fruity poke cake, or that classic green Jello salad with a twist, this list gives you plenty of options to keep things light, sweet, and delightfully retro.
Old Fashioned Strawberry Pie
This classic strawberry pie skips the gelatin and uses fresh berries in a simple glaze for a fruit-forward dessert. It’s a great way to showcase ripe strawberries without the artificial touch.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Strawberry Pie
Jello, Carrots, and Pineapple? Discover the Surprising Charm of Sunshine Salad
Brighten up any meal with this retro orange Jello salad filled with grated carrots and crushed pineapple. Sweet, tangy, and unexpectedly refreshing, it’s a cheerful side dish or dessert.
Get the Recipe: Jello, Carrots, and Pineapple? Discover the Surprising Charm of Sunshine Salad
Strawberry Jello Pie
A creamy, chilled dessert made with strawberry Jello, whipped topping, and a graham cracker crust. It’s light, fruity, and easy to throw together ahead of time.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Jello Pie
Cranberry Jello Salad
A holiday classic, this salad combines cranberry Jello with chopped apples, celery, and walnuts for texture and flavor. It’s sweet, tart, and a great addition to festive meals.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Jello Salad
Green Jello Salad
This sweet salad features lime Jello, cottage cheese, pineapple, and whipped topping. It’s creamy, tangy, and has that familiar retro charm that’s always a hit at gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Green Jello Salad
Jello Jigglers
A fun twist on regular Jello, these thick, bouncy squares are perfect for kids or party platters. Customize the flavors and colors to match any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Jello Jigglers
Lime Jello Salad
A creamy, fruit-filled take on lime Jello salad with cream cheese, marshmallows, fruit cocktail, and nuts. It’s colorful, sweet, and classic in the best way.
Get the Recipe: Lime Jello Salad
Valentine Layered Jell-O Cups
These layered Jello cups feature alternating red and pink flavors, creating a colorful and festive dessert. Great for Valentine’s Day parties or making with kids.
Get the Recipe: Valentine Layered Jell-O Cups
Layered Strawberry Jello Parfait Cups
These no-bake parfait cups are made with layers of strawberry Jello and whipped topping. Make them ahead and serve for parties, showers, or a fun weeknight treat.
Get the Recipe: Layered Strawberry Jello Parfait Cups
Christmas Poke Cake
This colorful poke cake is infused with red and green Jello, topped with whipped frosting and festive sprinkles. A fun, easy dessert for holiday celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Poke Cake
Mini Strawberry Bundt Cakes
These mini Bundt cakes are flavored with strawberry Jello for extra color and sweetness. A fun dessert that’s great for spring holidays, birthdays, or brunch.
Get the Recipe: Mini Strawberry Bundt Cakes