Christmas Jello Cake – Festive, Colorful & Delightfully Fun

Christmas Jello Cake is a vibrant, eye-catching dessert that combines the soft, tender texture of white cake with the playful, wobbly layers of Jello. Topped with fluffy Cool Whip and festive sprinkles, it’s the perfect centerpiece for holiday celebrations, family gatherings, or Christmas parties. This dessert isn’t just visually stunning—it also offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, making every bite a joyful experience.

What makes this cake special is the way the Jello seeps into the cake’s surface, creating colorful pockets of flavor that enhance the soft, spongy white cake. The combination of cherry and lime Jello layers adds a sweet, slightly tangy punch, balanced perfectly by the creamy Cool Whip topping. Even novice bakers can create a show-stopping dessert with minimal effort, thanks to simple preparation steps and easy-to-follow instructions.

Whether you’re baking for a festive family brunch or contributing to a holiday potluck, Christmas Jello Cake is a cheerful, flavorful treat that’s sure to impress both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• 1 box white cake mix (plus required ingredients listed on the box, typically eggs, oil, and water)
• 3 oz box lime Jello
• 3 oz box cherry Jello
• 8 oz Cool Whip, thawed
• Red and green sprinkles, for decoration

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat your oven according to the white cake mix instructions.
2. Prepare the white cake batter according to the package directions, making sure to measure all ingredients accurately for the best results.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly and pour in the cake batter. Spread evenly with a spatula.
4. Bake the cake following the recommended time and temperature on the package, checking doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center—it should come out clean.
5. Allow the cake to cool for approximately 20 minutes until it is just warm to the touch.

Step 2: Create Holes for Jello

1. Using a straw, wooden spoon handle, or similar utensil, create evenly spaced holes throughout the entire surface of the cake.
2. The holes will allow the Jello to seep into the cake, giving it that signature layered effect.

Step 3: Prepare the Jello

1. Prepare the lime Jello by dissolving the 3 oz box in 1 cup boiling water, then stir in ½ cup cold water. Mix until crystals are fully dissolved.
2. Repeat this process with the cherry Jello, using the same water measurements.

Step 4: Add Jello to the Cake

1. Carefully pour the green lime Jello over one half of the cake, making sure the liquid fills the holes completely.
2. Pour the red cherry Jello over the remaining half of the cake, again filling all the holes thoroughly.
3. Gently tilt the pan if necessary to help the Jello settle into the holes evenly.

Step 5: Chill

1. Refrigerate the cake for a minimum of 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the Jello to set fully.
2. Make sure the cake remains level in the refrigerator to prevent the Jello from spilling over or becoming uneven.

Step 6: Add Cool Whip and Decorations

1. Once the Jello has set, remove the cake from the refrigerator.
2. Spread thawed Cool Whip evenly across the entire surface of the cake, covering all Jello layers completely.
3. Decorate with red and green sprinkles in a festive pattern to add holiday cheer.
4. Return the cake to the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Step 7: Serve

1. Cut the cake into squares using a sharp knife, wiping the knife between cuts to maintain clean layers.
2. Serve chilled for a refreshing and visually stunning dessert.

Tips for Success

• Refrigerate Overnight: Allowing the cake to chill overnight enhances the Jello’s flavor and ensures it sets perfectly.
• Even Holes: Make the holes as evenly spaced as possible to get a consistent distribution of Jello throughout the cake.
• Creative Colors: Experiment with other Jello flavors and colors to customize for different holidays or celebrations.
• Use a Level Pan: Keeping the pan level in the refrigerator helps prevent Jello from pooling unevenly.
• Serving Suggestion: Pair with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra festive touch.

Storage and Make-Ahead

• Refrigerate: Store leftover cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
• Transporting: If taking the cake to a holiday gathering, keep it chilled in a sturdy container to prevent the Jello from shifting.
• Freezing: This dessert is not recommended for freezing due to the texture of the Jello.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 25 g
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different flavor of Jello?
Yes! Feel free to mix and match flavors like orange, raspberry, or blueberry to create a custom look and taste.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the cake and Jello layers a day in advance, then add the Cool Whip and decorations before serving.

3. How can I make this cake vegan?
You can substitute the white cake mix with a vegan cake mix and use non-dairy whipped topping instead of Cool Whip. Choose vegan-friendly Jello alternatives.

4. Can I make a smaller portion?
Yes, this recipe can easily be halved for a smaller batch using a smaller pan, adjusting baking time accordingly.

5. Can I make this cake without holes?
Creating holes allows the Jello to seep into the cake, adding moisture and color throughout. Without holes, the Jello will stay mostly on top, changing the texture and appearance.

6. How do I avoid Jello spills when adding to the cake?
Pour the Jello slowly and evenly, using a spoon to guide liquid into the holes if needed. Tilt the pan gently to help distribute the Jello evenly.

Christmas Jello Cake is a fun and festive dessert that delivers both flavor and visual appeal. The combination of moist white cake, colorful Jello layers, and creamy Cool Whip makes it a holiday favorite that will delight guests of all ages. Its simplicity, vibrant colors, and sweet taste make it a must-have for festive celebrations.

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