Red, White and Blue Finger Jello

The Red, White and Blue Finger Jello is the perfect festive treat for your summer gatherings! This vibrant dessert not only looks stunning but also offers a delightful combination of flavors that everyone will love. Ideal for barbecues, picnics, or any patriotic celebration, this finger jello will be the star of the show. Its unique layered design makes it easy to serve and fun to eat, ensuring your party is memorable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Visually Stunning: The striking red, white, and blue layers create an eye-catching display that enhances any festive occasion.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal effort required, you can whip up this dessert in no time.
• Perfect for Parties: These bite-sized squares are great finger food, making them easy for guests to grab and enjoy.
• Customization Options: Feel free to experiment with different flavors or colors for various celebrations throughout the year.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Kids adore this playful dessert, making it a hit at family gatherings or school events.

Tools and Preparation

To successfully prepare Red, White and Blue Finger Jello, you’ll need a few essential tools on hand. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch glass pan
• Medium mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Sharp knife
• Metal spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch glass pan: This size is perfect for setting multiple layers of jello without overflow.
• Metal spatula: It helps in easily lifting out the jello squares once set, preventing any mess during serving.

Ingredients

The best finger food for summer parties!

For the Red Layer

• Two 3-ounce boxes red jello gelatin
• 4 envelopes Knox unflavored gelatin (divided)

For the White Layer

• One 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk

For the Blue Layer

• Two 3-ounce boxes blue jello gelatin
• Boiling water
• Cold water

How to Make Red, White and Blue Finger Jello

Step 1: Prepare the Red Layer

In a medium bowl, mix two boxes of red jello with 1 envelope of unflavored gelatin. Add 2 cups of boiling water and stir until dissolved. Cool to room temperature. Pour into a greased 9×13-inch glass pan. Refrigerate for 15 minutes.

Step 2: Create the White Layer

While the red layer sets, prepare the white layer. In another bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk with 1 cup of boiling water. In a small bowl, sprinkle 2 envelopes of unflavored gelatin over 1/2 cup of cold water; let stand briefly. Add 1/2 cup boiling water to dissolve. Mix this into the milk mixture and stir well. Cool to room temperature before pouring over the red layer. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Blue Layer

Once the white layer has set, prepare the blue layer by mixing two boxes of blue jello with 1 envelope of unflavored gelatin in a medium bowl. Add 2 cups of boiling water and stir until fully dissolved. Allow it to cool before pouring it over the white layer. Refrigerate again for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Serve Your Jello

After all layers have set completely, use a sharp knife to cut into squares. Utilize a metal spatula to carefully lift out each square from the pan for serving.

Enjoy your refreshing Red, White and Blue Finger Jello at your next summer event!

How to Serve Red, White and Blue Finger Jello

Red, White and Blue Finger Jello is a festive treat perfect for summer gatherings. Its vibrant colors and fun presentation make it a hit at any party. Here are some creative ways to serve this delightful dessert.

Individual Cups

• Use small plastic cups to serve individual portions of jello. This makes it easy for guests to grab and enjoy without the need for cutting.

Skewers

• Thread jello squares onto festive skewers for a playful display. This adds a fun twist that kids will love and encourages them to eat their dessert.

Jello Parfaits

• Layer the jello pieces in clear cups with whipped cream or fruit. This not only enhances the look but also adds extra flavor and texture.

Party Platter

• Arrange the jello squares on a decorative platter. Garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves for an added touch that complements the patriotic theme.

Jello Cake Pops

• Transform your jello into cake pops by dipping the squares in chocolate and inserting sticks. These are a fun way to serve jello that is sure to impress!

Ice Cream Pairing

• Serve alongside vanilla or berry-flavored ice cream. The combination of creamy and fruity flavors creates a delightful dessert experience.

How to Perfect Red, White and Blue Finger Jello

To achieve the best results with your Red, White and Blue Finger Jello, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Cold Water – Always include cold water when preparing unflavored gelatin; this helps it dissolve properly without clumping.
• Level Your Refrigerator – Ensure your refrigerator is level before setting layers; this prevents uneven layers that can affect presentation.
• Patience is Key – Allow each layer to cool fully before adding the next one. Rushing this step can lead to mixed colors.
• Sharp Knife for Cutting – Use a sharp knife to cut through the jello cleanly. A dull knife may cause tearing or uneven edges.
• Presentation Matters – Consider garnishing with whipped cream or fresh berries to elevate the visual appeal of your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Red, White and Blue Finger Jello

Pairing side dishes with Red, White and Blue Finger Jello can enhance your summer gathering. Here are some delicious options that complement this festive dessert.

1. Grilled Vegetables – A medley of colorful grilled veggies adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the jello.
2. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the finger jello.
3. Potato Salad – A classic potato salad brings heartiness to your table, making it a satisfying addition alongside sweet treats.
4. Coleslaw – Crunchy coleslaw offers great texture and its tangy flavor pairs well with sweet desserts like jello.
5. BBQ Chicken Skewers – Savory BBQ chicken skewers make for a delicious main dish that complements the festive feel of your dessert.
6. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds sweetness and is always a crowd-pleaser at summer gatherings.
7. Pasta Salad – A colorful pasta salad tossed with vegetables provides a hearty option that balances lighter dishes like finger jello.
8. Cheese Platter – Offer an assortment of cheeses paired with crackers for guests who prefer savory snacks alongside their sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Red, White and Blue Finger Jello can be fun and festive, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect setting times: Not allowing each layer enough time to set can lead to a mixed mess. Always refrigerate for the recommended time before adding the next layer.
• Using incorrect water temperatures: Make sure to use boiling water as specified in the recipe. Cold water will not dissolve the gelatin properly, affecting the texture.
• Skipping the nonstick spray: Forgetting to spray your pan can make it difficult to remove the jello once set. Always apply nonstick spray generously before pouring in your layers.
• Cutting with a dull knife: A sharp knife is essential for clean cuts. Dull knives can tear the jello instead of cutting it neatly into squares.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in gelatin recipes. Use proper measuring tools for both liquids and powders to ensure success.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Red, White and Blue Finger Jello in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Red, White and Blue Finger Jello

• It’s best not to freeze this dessert due to its gelatin structure, which may become watery upon thawing.
• If necessary, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, but be aware of potential texture changes.

Reheating Red, White and Blue Finger Jello

• Oven: Not recommended as jello should not be heated; it will lose its shape.
• Microwave: You can microwave small portions for a few seconds on low power if needed, but this may alter its texture.
• Stovetop: Avoid heating jello on the stovetop as well; it is best enjoyed cold.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Red, White and Blue Finger Jello?

Red, White and Blue Finger Jello is a layered dessert made with red and blue jello flavors combined with a creamy white layer of sweetened condensed milk. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or patriotic celebrations.

How long does it take to prepare Red, White and Blue Finger Jello?

The total time needed is about 1 hour and 45 minutes, including prep and refrigeration time for each layer.

Can I customize the flavors of Red, White and Blue Finger Jello?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different jello flavors while keeping the color scheme intact. You could use cherry or raspberry for red and blueberry or grape for blue.

How many servings does this recipe yield?

This recipe makes approximately 40 pieces of jello squares, making it ideal for parties or gatherings.

Final Thoughts

Red, White and Blue Finger Jello is not only a festive treat but also a versatile one that you can adapt for different occasions. With its vibrant colors and creamy layers, it’s sure to impress guests at any summer party. Don’t hesitate to customize it further—your creativity will make it even more delightful!