Christmas Jello Balls are a fun and colorful treat that brighten up any holiday party! Made with fruity flavors and a little bit of sparkle, they are sure to impress your guests.
These little bites look like edible ornaments and taste so refreshing! I love serving them in a clear bowl to show off their bright colors. Plus, they’re super easy to make—perfect for last-minute holiday fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jello Gelatin: The star of this recipe! I love using strawberry and lime for the classic red and green look. You can try different flavors like raspberry or green apple if you want a twist. Just ensure they’re bright colors for that holiday spirit!
Coconut: Unsweetened shredded coconut gives a snowy appearance that fits the theme perfectly. If you’re not a fan of coconut, you can roll the Jello balls in crushed graham crackers, powdered sugar, or even colored sugar for a festive touch.
Water: Boiling and cold water are key here. I like to use filtered water for a clean taste. If you want a little extra flavor, try using juice instead of cold water for an added twist!
How Do I Get the Jello Balls to Hold Their Shape?
Getting those Jello balls to hold their shape is all about properly setting the gelatin. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure you allow enough time for the gelatin to fully set in the fridge. Four hours is usually perfect, but check if they’re firm enough.
- Using silicone molds helps with easy removal. If they stick, run warm water over the outside of the mold for a few seconds.
- When pressing the two halves together, make sure they seal well! It helps if you moisten the edges slightly before combining them.
These steps will help you create perfect little balls that are not only festive but also fun and tasty!
Christmas Jello Balls Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (3 oz) red Jello gelatin (strawberry or cherry flavor)
- 1 package (3 oz) green Jello gelatin (lime flavor)
- 1 cup boiling water (for each Jello flavor, 2 cups total)
- 2 cups cold water (for each Jello flavor, 4 cups total)
- 1 cup finely shredded coconut (unsweetened)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus around 4 hours to chill in the fridge. So, in total, you’re looking at about 4 hours and 15 minutes—perfect for letting the Jello set while you get other holiday tasks done!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Red Jello:
Start by following the package instructions for the red Jello gelatin. Boil 1 cup of water and mix it with the gelatin powder in a bowl. Stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved. After that, add 2 cups of cold water and mix well. Pour this mixture into half-sphere silicone molds or any hemispherical mold you like. Pop them in the fridge and let them chill for about 4 hours until firm.
2. Make the Green Jello:
Now, repeat the same process with the green Jello gelatin. Use 1 cup of boiling water and mix it with the green gelatin in a separate bowl. Stir until it’s fully dissolved, then add 2 cups of cold water. Pour it into your molds and refrigerate again until firm, which should also take about 4 hours.
3. Form the Jello Balls:
Once the red and green gelatin has completely set, carefully remove the hemispheres from the molds. To form the Jello balls, press one red hemisphere and one green hemisphere together until they stick. It’s all about that beautiful, festive look!
4. Coat with Coconut:
For that snowy appearance, moisten the surface of each Jello ball lightly with a bit of water. Then, roll or toss them in a bowl filled with shredded coconut to coat them evenly. This adds a fun texture and makes them extra festive!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange the finished Christmas Jello Balls on a serving platter. Chill them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve! These delightful treats are colorful, fun, and perfect for holiday celebrations. Enjoy them chilled and see everyone smile!
These vibrant red and green Jello balls, coated in coconut, truly enhance the holiday spirit and are sure to be a hit at your festive gatherings!
Can I Use Sugar-Free Jello for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use sugar-free Jello if you prefer a lower-calorie option. The texture and flavor will be similar, so your Christmas Jello Balls will still turn out delicious and festive!
How Do I Store Leftover Jello Balls?
Store any leftover Jello Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just remember to keep them chilled until you’re ready to serve again!
Can I Make These Jello Balls the Day Before?
Yes, making them a day ahead is actually a great idea! The Jello will set perfectly overnight and the flavors can meld nicely. Just keep them covered in the fridge until your event.
What Can I Use Instead of Coconut?
If you’re not a fan of coconut, you can substitute it with crushed graham crackers or colorful sprinkles. These alternatives will give a fun look and taste while still adding that festive touch!
