Stained glass gelatin, sometimes called “broken glass jello,” is a vibrant and playful dessert that combines colorful cubes of flavored gelatin with a creamy base. The result is a mosaic-like treat that looks as stunning as it tastes. Each bite offers a mix of fruity flavors suspended in a smooth, milky gelatin, creating a delightful contrast in both texture and appearance. This dessert is often prepared for festive occasions, family gatherings, or celebrations where presentation matters as much as flavor. Its beauty lies in its simplicity—bright cubes of gelatin arranged in a mold and set with a creamy mixture that binds them together into a dazzling centerpiece.
The process of making stained glass gelatin is not only fun but also creative. It allows you to experiment with different colors and flavors, making each version unique. The preparation involves making several batches of flavored gelatin, cutting them into cubes, and then embedding them in a milk-based gelatin mixture. Once set, the dessert resembles a stained-glass window, with jewel-like cubes shining through the creamy background.
Ingredients
- 4 packets flavored gelatin (different colors and flavors such as strawberry, lime, orange, and pineapple)
- 4 cups boiling water (1 cup per gelatin packet)
- 2 cups cold water (½ cup per gelatin packet)
- 1 packet unflavored gelatin (about 2½ teaspoons)
- ½ cup cold water (for blooming the unflavored gelatin)
- 1 cup hot water (to dissolve the bloomed gelatin)
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 ounces)
- 1 cup evaporated milk or whole milk
Instruction
- Prepare the colored gelatin: Dissolve each flavored gelatin packet in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved, then add ½ cup cold water to each. Pour into separate containers and refrigerate until firm, usually 3–4 hours.
- Cut into cubes: Once the flavored gelatin has set, cut each batch into small cubes. These cubes will form the colorful “stained glass” pieces of the dessert.
- Arrange in mold: Lightly grease a bundt pan or large mold. Place the gelatin cubes inside, mixing the colors evenly for a mosaic effect.
- Prepare the creamy gelatin base: Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over ½ cup cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes. Add 1 cup hot water and stir until dissolved. Mix in the sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk, stirring until smooth.
- Combine and set: Pour the creamy gelatin mixture over the cubes in the mold, ensuring the liquid fills the gaps between the cubes. Refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours, or until fully set.
- Unmold and serve: To release the dessert, dip the mold briefly in warm water and invert onto a serving plate. Slice carefully to reveal the stained-glass effect inside.
Servings
This recipe yields approximately 10–12 servings, depending on the size of the mold and portion sizes.
Note
Stained glass gelatin is best enjoyed chilled, making it perfect for warm weather or festive gatherings. The dessert can be customized endlessly—choose flavors that complement each other or create a rainbow effect with bold, contrasting colors. The creamy base balances the sweetness of the flavored cubes, ensuring the dessert is not overly sugary.
Patience is key in this recipe, as each layer of gelatin requires time to set properly. Rushing the process may cause the cubes to break or the creamy base to mix unevenly. Preparing the colored gelatin a day ahead can make the process smoother, allowing you to focus on assembling the dessert the next day.
Presentation plays a big role in the appeal of stained glass gelatin. Serving it in a bundt pan creates a beautiful ring shape, but you can also use individual cups for single servings. Each slice or cup reveals a unique pattern of colors, making it as exciting to look at as it is to eat.
This dessert is more than just a sweet treat—it’s a celebration of color, creativity, and joy. It invites experimentation, whether with flavors, shapes, or serving styles. The stained-glass effect is always a surprise, and no two slices look exactly alike. That unpredictability adds to its charm, making it a conversation starter at any table.