This Creamy Strawberry Jello Mold is a delightful throwback dessert that brings joy to any gathering. Its smooth, creamy texture and vibrant color make it a showstopper at brunches, picnics, or holiday celebrations. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a stunning dish that pleases both the eyes and the palate. It’s perfect for serving a crowd, making it an excellent choice for your next event!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This jello mold uses only a few pantry staples and requires less than 10 minutes of prep time.
- Versatile Flavor: The combination of strawberry jello with cranberry sauce adds a unique twist that is both refreshing and delicious.
- Crowd-Pleasing: With enough servings for 10 people, it’s ideal for gatherings, parties, and family get-togethers.
- Beautiful Presentation: The vivid colors and smooth texture make it a visually appealing dish that will impress your guests.
- Customizable: Feel free to add fruits or nuts to tailor the flavor to your liking!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this easy recipe, gather the right tools to ensure success in creating your Creamy Strawberry Jello Mold.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick Jello mold
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cooking spray
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick Jello mold: This makes it easier to release the jello once set, ensuring a beautiful presentation.
- Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining larger quantities of ingredients without spills.
- Whisk: Perfect for achieving a smooth consistency in your mixtures without lumps.
Ingredients
This vintage Strawberry Jello Mold has a smooth and creamy texture, so delicious, and super easy using only a few pantry items. Great for a small crowd and perfect for a Sunday brunch!
For the Jello Base
- 6 ounce package Strawberry Jello
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 cup ice cold water
For the Creamy Mixture
- 15 ounce can jellied cranberry sauce
- 1 cup sour cream
For Garnish (Optional)
- whipped cream
How to Make Creamy Strawberry Jello Mold
Step 1: Dissolve the Gelatin
In a large bowl, completely dissolve the Strawberry Jello in the boiling water. Whisk until fully combined. Next, add the ice cold water and mix again. Place this mixture in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes until it’s cool to the touch.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the jellied cranberry sauce and sour cream. Blend until thoroughly incorporated and smooth.
Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Once your gelatin is cool, thoroughly combine the sour cream mixture with it. Ensure everything is well mixed for an even texture.
Step 4: Set in Mold
Transfer your combined mixture into a nonstick jello mold lightly coated with cooking spray. Refrigerate it to set for at least 6 hours (or preferably overnight).
Step 5: Serve Your Dessert
After setting, loosen the jello from the mold by running warm water over its outside for a few seconds. Invert it onto a serving plate. Slice into pieces and enjoy with some whipped cream if desired!
This Creamy Strawberry Jello Mold will surely be a hit at your next gathering!
How to Serve Creamy Strawberry Jello Mold
Serving Creamy Strawberry Jello Mold can elevate your dessert table, making it both enticing and delicious. This jello dish pairs well with various toppings and sides, enhancing its creamy texture and fruity flavor.
With Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra richness. This classic pairing allows the sweetness of the cream to complement the tartness of the strawberries.
Fresh Berries
- Serve with fresh strawberries or raspberries on the side. The natural acidity of the berries balances the sweetness of the jello mold beautifully.
Mint Leaves
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and a refreshing taste. The mint adds an aromatic element that brightens up the dish.
Fruit Salad
- Pair it with a light fruit salad. A mix of melons, oranges, and grapes can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy jello.
Vanilla Ice Cream
- Offer a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside. The cold creaminess of the ice cream enhances the overall dessert experience.
Festive Sprinkles
- Top with colorful sprinkles for special occasions. This fun touch not only makes it visually appealing but also adds a bit of crunch.
How to Perfect Creamy Strawberry Jello Mold
To achieve the perfect Creamy Strawberry Jello Mold, follow these simple tips that will enhance both flavor and presentation.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh sour cream and quality jello mix to ensure great taste.
- Cool Gradually: Allow the gelatin mixture to cool gradually before mixing in sour cream. This prevents curdling.
- Grease the Mold: Lightly coat your mold with cooking spray. This helps in easy removal once set.
- Chill Overnight: For best results, let your jello mold set overnight. This ensures a firmer texture that’s easier to slice.
- Slice with Care: Use a warm knife to slice through the jello mold smoothly. This technique helps avoid tearing.
- Serve Cold: Always serve your jello mold cold for optimal enjoyment. It refreshes the palate, especially on warm days.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Strawberry Jello Mold
Complementing your Creamy Strawberry Jello Mold with side dishes can create a delightful balance on your dessert table. Here are some tasty options that pair well:
- Coconut Macaroons
These sweet treats add a chewy texture that contrasts nicely with the smooth jello mold. - Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
The caramelized pineapple provides brightness and an added layer of flavor alongside your creamy dessert. - Chocolate Mousse
Serve rich chocolate mousse for those who crave something decadent along with their fruity dessert. - Lemon Sorbet
A refreshing lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and offers a zesty complement to sweet flavors. - Pecan Pie Bars
These bars add crunch and nutty flavor, creating an enjoyable textural variety when served together. - Grilled Peaches
Sweet grilled peaches bring warmth and additional fruitiness, enhancing the overall dessert experience. - Cheese Platter
A selection of soft cheeses balances sweetness with savory notes, making it an elegant addition to your spread. - Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
These indulgent bites mirror flavors found in your jello mold while offering a luxurious touch to your dessert table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Creamy Strawberry Jello Mold can be simple, but there are common errors to avoid for the best results.
- Not dissolving completely: Make sure the gelatin is fully dissolved in boiling water. If not, your mold will have a grainy texture.
- Skipping cooling time: Allow the gelatin mixture to cool properly before mixing in other ingredients. This ensures a smooth blend and prevents curdling.
- Incorrect measuring: Use precise measurements for both the liquid and solid ingredients. Too much or too little can affect the consistency of your dessert.
- Using the wrong container: Always use a nonstick Jello mold or coat it with cooking spray. This makes it easier to release your dessert once it’s set.
- Rushing the setting process: Be patient! Letting the Jello mold set for at least 6 hours ensures it holds its shape when served.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Creamy Strawberry Jello Mold in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing Creamy Strawberry Jello Mold
- Freezing is not recommended as it may change the texture of the creamy layers.
- If you must freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 2 months.
Reheating Creamy Strawberry Jello Mold
- Oven: Not applicable; Jello molds should not be reheated in an oven.
- Microwave: Gently microwave for short intervals if needed, but it’s best served cold.
- Stovetop: Again, reheating on the stovetop is not advisable as it can ruin the texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Creamy Strawberry Jello Mold?
A Creamy Strawberry Jello Mold is a delightful dessert made from strawberry gelatin mixed with sour cream and cranberry sauce, creating a smooth and creamy texture that sets beautifully.
How long does it take for the Creamy Strawberry Jello Mold to set?
It typically takes about 6 hours for your jello mold to set properly, but overnight is best for optimal firmness.
Can I customize my Creamy Strawberry Jello Mold?
Yes! Feel free to add fresh strawberries or swap out flavors using different fruit jellos and creams to make it your own.
What can I serve with Creamy Strawberry Jello Mold?
You can serve this delicious dessert with whipped cream on top or alongside fresh berries for added flavor and decoration.
Final Thoughts
The Creamy Strawberry Jello Mold is a nostalgic treat that brings back fond memories while being easy to prepare. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors and toppings, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this delightful dessert a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Creamy Strawberry Jello Mold
This Creamy Strawberry Jello Mold is a delightful and nostalgic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, from brunches to family gatherings. With a vibrant color and smooth, creamy texture, it’s sure to impress your guests. Made with just a handful of pantry staples, this recipe combines the refreshing flavors of strawberry jello and cranberry sauce with the rich creaminess of sour cream. The result is a visually stunning dish that is not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste. Serve it chilled with whipped cream or fresh berries for an extra special touch!
- Total Time: 11 minute
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 6 oz package Strawberry Jello
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 cup ice cold water
- 15 oz can jellied cranberry sauce
- 1 cup sour cream
- Whipped cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, dissolve the Strawberry Jello in boiling water and mix well. Stir in ice cold water and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes until cool.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together jellied cranberry sauce and sour cream until smooth.
- Combine the cooled gelatin mixture with the cranberry-sour cream mixture until fully blended.
- Pour into a lightly greased nonstick jello mold and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to set.
- To serve, warm the mold slightly under running water before inverting onto a plate. Slice and enjoy with whipped cream if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Dessert
- Method: N/A
- Cuisine: N/A
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: For added flavor, incorporate fresh fruit or nuts into the mixture. Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best taste. Allow adequate cooling time to prevent curdling of the creamy mixture.