Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Easter Jell-O Pie combines the playful and vibrant colors of Jell-O with a creamy base, making it the perfect festive dessert. Each layer of Jell-O brings its own fruity flavor, while the cream cheese layer adds a smooth and tangy contrast. The combination of textures and flavors makes each bite a treat, and it’s a great way to celebrate with something light and refreshing. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, so you’ll have more time to enjoy the celebration!
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust
- 1 (3 oz) box lemon Jell-O
- 1 (3 oz) box grape Jell-O
- 1 (3 oz) box berry blue Jell-O
- 3 cups boiling water (1 cup per Jell-O flavor)
- 3 cups cold water (1 cup per Jell-O flavor)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
For the Jell-O Layers:
- Prepare the Jell-O layers: In three separate bowls, dissolve each box of Jell-O in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until the Jell-O is completely dissolved. Then, add 1 cup of cold water to each bowl and mix well. Allow the Jell-O mixtures to cool to room temperature.
- Add the first layer: Pour the lemon Jell-O mixture into the bottom of the pre-made graham cracker crust. Place the pie in the refrigerator and allow the layer to set for about 30-45 minutes, or until firm.
- Add the second layer: Once the lemon layer has set, pour the grape Jell-O mixture over the top of the lemon layer. Return the pie to the refrigerator and let it set for another 30-45 minutes.
- Add the final layer: Once the grape layer has set, pour the berry blue Jell-O mixture over the grape layer. Again, refrigerate the pie for at least 30-45 minutes, or until the final layer is fully set.
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- Prepare the cream cheese layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add a little bit of cold water (about 1/4 cup) to help loosen the cream cheese. You want the texture to be smooth and spreadable.
- Add to the pie: Once all the Jell-O layers are fully set, spread the cream cheese mixture over the top of the pie. Use a spatula to smooth it evenly over the top of the Jell-O layers.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the pie for at least 2-3 hours or overnight to ensure the cream cheese layer sets and the Jell-O layers are firm. Slice and serve chilled.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves about 8-10 people.
Total time: 4 hours
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 3-4 hours (for the Jell-O layers and cream cheese layer to set)
Variations
- Other Jell-O flavors: Feel free to swap out the lemon, grape, and berry blue Jell-O flavors for your favorites! Strawberry, orange, and lime would work great for a different colorful combination.
- Whipped topping: You can top the pie with whipped cream or Cool Whip for extra creaminess.
- Fruit topping: Garnish the pie with fresh fruit, such as berries or citrus slices, for a pop of freshness and added color.
Storage/Reheating
Store the pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. This pie is best served chilled, and the layers should remain firm while stored.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade graham cracker crust instead of a pre-made one?
Yes, you can make a homemade graham cracker crust if you prefer! Simply combine crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and a little sugar, then press it into the pie dish and bake it until set.
Can I use sugar-free Jell-O for this recipe?
Yes, you can use sugar-free Jell-O if you’re looking for a lighter version of the pie. The texture and flavor will still be great.
How can I make sure the layers don’t mix?
To ensure the layers don’t mix, make sure each layer is fully set before adding the next one. The Jell-O layers should be firm enough to support the next layer once they’ve chilled for at least 30-45 minutes.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! This pie is perfect for making ahead. It’s best to prepare it the day before and let it set overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the layers to firm up properly.
What if I don’t have a graham cracker crust?
You can substitute the graham cracker crust with any other pie crust of your choice, such as a shortbread crust or even a cookie crust.
Can I use regular cream cheese instead of softened cream cheese?
Yes, use regular cream cheese, but make sure it’s softened to room temperature for the best smooth texture when mixing.
Can I use fresh fruit in the Jell-O layers?
While fresh fruit doesn’t work well in the Jell-O layers due to the gel setting process, you can use it as a topping for added color and flavor once the pie is set.
Can I use flavored cream cheese instead of plain?
Yes, you can use flavored cream cheese, like strawberry or vanilla, for a unique twist on the cream cheese layer. Just be sure to adjust the flavor based on your preferred combination with the Jell-O.
Can I make this pie in individual servings?
Yes, you can make mini versions of this pie by using individual tart pans or small cups. Just adjust the layering process and chilling time for smaller portions.
Conclusion
This Jell-O Pie is the ultimate fun, colorful, and refreshing dessert to bring to any spring or Easter celebration. With its vibrant layers of lemon, grape, and berry blue Jell-O, paired with a creamy cream cheese layer, it’s a treat that’s as delicious as it is visually stunning. It’s easy to make, requires no baking, and will definitely be a crowd-pleaser!
Print
Jell-O Pie
- Total Time: 4 hours
- Yield: 8-10 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust
- 1 (3 oz) box lemon Jell-O
- 1 (3 oz) box grape Jell-O
- 1 (3 oz) box berry blue Jell-O
- 3 cups boiling water (1 cup per Jell-O flavor)
- 3 cups cold water (1 cup per Jell-O flavor)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
Instructions
For the Jell-O Layers:
- Prepare the Jell-O: In three separate bowls, dissolve each Jell-O box in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until dissolved, then add 1 cup of cold water to each bowl. Mix well and let the Jell-O cool to room temperature.
- Add the first layer: Pour the lemon Jell-O into the pre-made graham cracker crust and refrigerate for 30-45 minutes until set.
- Add the second layer: Once the lemon layer is set, pour the grape Jell-O over it and refrigerate for another 30-45 minutes.
- Add the final layer: After the grape layer is set, pour the berry blue Jell-O on top and refrigerate for 30-45 minutes until the final layer is firm.
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- Prepare the cream cheese layer: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add about 1/4 cup cold water to loosen the cream cheese, creating a smooth, spreadable texture.
- Add to the pie: Once the Jell-O layers have fully set, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours or overnight for the best results. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- Flavor variations: Swap the lemon, grape, and berry blue Jell-O for other flavors like strawberry, lime, and orange to create a different colorful combination.
- Whipped topping: Add whipped cream or Cool Whip on top for extra creaminess.
- Fruit topping: Garnish with fresh fruit like berries or citrus slices for a fresh, colorful touch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
