Broken Glass Jelly Squares — Welcome to a Nostalgic Treat That’s as Beautiful as It Is Delicious
Our Broken Glass Jelly Squares are a happy relic — from the past, not just a dessert. These no-bake treats are as beautiful to look at as they are delicious, with their mosaic-like cubes of colorful gelatin suspended in a creamy, cloud-like base. Every mouthful offers a delicate sweetness, a revitalizing burst of fruit flavor, and a smooth, comforting finish.
The simplicity of this dessert is what really sets it apart. It was a mainstay on birthdays, holidays, and lazy summer afternoons, and it was born out of a love for make-ahead treats that could add color to any family table. It’s still a great option for potlucks, parties, and any other gathering that needs a little nostalgia and a splash of color.
A Mosaic of Flavor in Every Bite
Imagine piercing a cool, delicate slice with your fork to uncover glistening cubes of grape, orange, lime, and strawberry jelly concealed within a smooth vanilla cream base. This dessert is a masterwork of contrasts:
- Creamy and fruity
- Elegant but playful
- Sweet but refreshing
The soft, bouncy jelly and the creamy layer that melts on the tongue make for an unforgettable texture. It is sure to make guests smile, whether it is served at a formal dinner or a children’s party.
The Elegance of Simplicity
This recipe isn’t hard to follow. This is proof that a few high-quality ingredients can make a great dish. You only need flavored gelatin packets, unflavored gelatin, heavy cream, and condensed milk.
Here’s what makes this dessert special:
- Minimal effort: Once the colored gelatins set in the fridge, assembly is a breeze.
- No oven required: Perfect for hot days or when the oven is already busy.
- Make-ahead friendly: It needs overnight chilling, which means you can prepare it in advance and focus on enjoying your event.
Seasonal Sophistication for Your Table
We love recipes that make us want to be creative at Gourmara. This dessert is a blank slate:
- Like tropical tastes? Use gelatin made from pineapple, mango, or coconut.
- Do you like a sour twist? Put some lemon zest on top of the creamy layer.
- Would you like a lighter version? Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a base that is tangy and full of protein.
You’re not just making a dessert; you’re making a memory.
Perfect for Every Occasion
- Birthday parties
- Summer barbecues
- Holiday buffets
- Casual family dinners
- Elegant tea-time gatherings
Broken Glass Jelly Squares are always fun and colorful, so you’ll never forget them.
Broken Glass Jelly Squares
Equipment
- 1 Mixing bowl For dissolving gelatin and mixing the creamy base
- 1 Whisk or hand mixer To dissolve gelatin smoothly and whip the cream
- 1 Shallow containers or trays To set the colored gelatin in the fridge
- 1 Sharp knife For cutting the gelatin into cubes
- 1 Large glass dish or bundt pan To assemble the dessert (23×33 cm dish or a bundt pan works best)
Ingredients
- 4 boxes Flavored gelatin Choose assorted flavors
- – – Boiling water & cold water As per flavored gelatin package instructions
- 3 envelopes Unflavored gelatin Each envelope = 7g
- 1 ½ cups Boiling water For dissolving unflavored gelatin
- ¾ cup Heavy cream Cold; for the creamy base
- 10 oz Sweetened condensed milk One small can
- ½ tsp Vanilla extract (optional) Adds aroma and depth to the creamy layer
- – – Fresh mint, shredded coconut, fruit slices (optional) For garnish before serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Colored Gelatin: Dissolve each flavored gelatin packet separately in boiling water according to the package instructions. Add cold water as directed. Pour each flavor into shallow containers for easy cutting later. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight until fully set.
- Cut the Gelatin Cubes: Once firm, unmold each flavored gelatin and cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes. Gently combine all the cubes in a large mixing bowl or directly in the serving dish to create a colorful mosaic.
- Prepare the Creamy Base: In a clean bowl, dissolve the unflavored gelatin in boiling water, whisking until smooth. Let it cool for 10–15 minutes (should be warm, not hot). Meanwhile, whip the heavy cream to soft peaks. Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla (optional) and fold gently to combine.
- Assemble the Dessert: Pour the cooled creamy base over the prepared gelatin cubes. Stir very gently to distribute the cubes evenly without breaking them. Transfer to a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) glass dish or bundt pan, smoothing the top.
- Chill to Set: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight until firm.
- Slice and Serve: If using a bundt pan, briefly dip the base in warm water and invert onto a serving platter. Otherwise, slice directly in the dish into 8 even portions. Garnish with mint, fresh fruit, or shredded coconut if desired.
Notes
- Customize the colors: You can swap the flavored gelatin colors to match the theme of your event (red and green for Christmas, pastels for Easter, bright colors for summer parties).
- Make ahead: This dessert is best prepared at least a day in advance as it requires long chilling time. It can be kept refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Serving option: For a cleaner look, use a bundt pan and unmold before serving. For easy slicing, a rectangular glass dish works best.
- Variations: Add small pieces of fresh fruit (berries, kiwi, or mango) between the cubes before pouring the creamy base for extra flavor.
