Pastel Rainbow Gelatin Cups are a fun and colorful layered dessert, perfect for birthdays, spring celebrations, or any festive gathering. With smooth, creamy pastel layers created by mixing fruit-flavored gelatin with a sweet white gelatin base, these cups are both visually stunning and delicious. Topped with whipped cream, sprinkles, and candy eggs, they are sure to impress guests of all ages.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright & Festive – Beautiful pastel layers make this dessert perfect for parties.
- Easy to Make – Simple steps and minimal ingredients create an eye-catching treat.
- Smooth & Creamy Texture – The mix of fruit gelatin and sweetened condensed milk creates a rich and silky consistency.
- Customizable – Use different flavors and colors to match any theme.
- Kid-Friendly & Fun – A great treat for kids to enjoy making and eating!
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 (3 oz) boxes of flavored gelatin (grape, strawberry, lemon, and blue raspberry for pastel colors)
- 4 cups boiling water (1 cup per gelatin flavor)
- 2 cups cold milk
- 2 packets unflavored gelatin
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Pastel sprinkles & candy eggs (for garnish)
Directions
Prepare the White Gelatin Base:
- Bloom the Gelatin – In a bowl, sprinkle 2 packets of unflavored gelatin over ½ cup cold milk and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Dissolve the Gelatin – Add 1 ½ cups boiling water, stirring until the gelatin completely dissolves.
- Mix in Sweetened Condensed Milk – Stir in sweetened condensed milk and let cool. This mixture will be used to create the pastel colors.
Prepare the Colored Gelatin Layers:
- Dissolve the Flavored Gelatin – In separate bowls, dissolve each flavored gelatin (grape, strawberry, lemon, and blue raspberry) in 1 cup of boiling water. Let cool slightly.
- Create the Pastel Colors – Mix ½ cup of the white gelatin base into each flavored gelatin to achieve soft pastel hues.
Layer the Gelatin:
- Pour the First Layer – Pour the first pastel-colored gelatin (e.g., purple) into serving cups. Chill for 15 minutes until set.
- Repeat with Remaining Layers – Carefully pour the next pastel layer (pink, yellow, blue) on top, chilling each layer for 15 minutes before adding the next.
- Final Chill – Once all layers are set, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully firm up.
Decorate & Serve:
- Top with Whipped Cream – Add a generous swirl of whipped cream.
- Garnish for a Festive Touch – Sprinkle pastel sprinkles and place a candy egg on top.
- Serve & Enjoy – Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, colorful layers!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8 cups
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Variations
- Different Colors & Flavors – Swap out gelatin flavors to create your own color combinations.
- Dairy-Free Option – Use coconut milk and a dairy-free condensed milk alternative.
- Layered Parfait Style – Add crumbled cookies or cake layers between gelatin layers.
- Rainbow Unicorn Theme – Use bright rainbow colors instead of pastels for a unicorn-inspired dessert.
- Tropical Flavors – Try mango, coconut, and pineapple gelatin for a tropical twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as gelatin loses its texture when frozen.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare a day in advance and decorate just before serving.
FAQs
Can I make these gelatin cups ahead of time?
Yes, they can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just add toppings before serving.
How do I prevent layers from mixing?
Ensure each layer is fully set before adding the next one, and pour gently to prevent blending.
Can I use sugar-free gelatin?
Yes, sugar-free gelatin works well for a lighter version.
What if my layers aren’t setting properly?
Make sure to chill each layer long enough before adding the next, and follow the gelatin measurements accurately.
Can I use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk?
Yes, but ensure it is unflavored and unsweetened for the best consistency.
How do I make the colors more vibrant?
Use slightly less white gelatin base when mixing with the flavored gelatin to maintain a brighter color.
Can I make this in a large dish instead of individual cups?
Yes, pour the layers into a large dish and cut into squares for serving.
What other toppings can I use?
Try chocolate shavings, fresh fruit, or edible glitter for extra decoration.
Can I make this without sweetened condensed milk?
Yes, replace it with a mixture of cream and sugar, but the texture may be slightly different.
Is this dessert good for kids’ parties?
Absolutely! The bright pastel layers and creamy texture make it a hit with children.
Conclusion
Pastel Rainbow Gelatin Cups are a fun, colorful, and delicious dessert perfect for any celebration. With their creamy, fruity layers and festive decorations, they’re sure to impress both kids and adults. Whether for birthdays, spring gatherings, or themed parties, these delightful cups are an easy-to-make treat that adds a pop of color to any table!