Get ready to take a trip down memory lane and indulge in some seriously retro desserts! The 1950s were a time of poodle skirts, drive-in movies, and Jell-O molds galore. In this era of vibrant colors and bold flavors, Jell-O was the ultimate party trick, with homemakers whipping up elaborate creations to impress their friends and family. From classic fruit salads to savory aspics, these vintage recipes are sure to bring back memories of a bygone era. In this article, we’ll be revisiting 18 of the most iconic Jell-O recipes from the 1950s, each one a masterpiece of colorful presentation and nostalgic charm. So put on your favorite poodle skirt and get ready to dive into the world of retro Jell-O!
Lime Jello with Pineapple and Cottage Cheese
A refreshing twist on traditional jello, this recipe combines the tanginess of lime with the sweetness of pineapple and the creaminess of cottage cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lime Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 8 ounces cottage cheese
– Whipped cream and chopped pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the lime Jell-O in the boiling water.
2. Add the cold water and stir until the Jell-O is fully dissolved.
3. Stir in the pineapple juice and let it cool slightly.
4. Add the pineapple chunks and cottage cheese to the cooled Jell-O mixture. Stir gently until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch dish or individual cups.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
7. Garnish with whipped cream and chopped pecans, if desired.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (or until set)
Cranberry Jello Salad with Walnuts
A refreshing and flavorful side dish perfect for any occasion, this Cranberry Jello Salad with Walnuts is a delightful combination of tart cranberries, sweet jello, and crunchy walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cranberry jello
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the cranberry jello in the boiling water.
2. Add the cold water and stir until the jello is fully dissolved.
3. Stir in the sugar until it’s completely dissolved.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or until set.
5. Just before serving, whip the heavy cream or half-and-half until stiff peaks form.
6. Fold the whipped cream into the chilled cranberry jello mixture.
7. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top and serve.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (chilling time)
Tomato Aspic with Celery and Olives
A refreshing and light appetizer or side dish, this tomato aspic is infused with the natural sweetness of tomatoes, the crunch of celery, and the savory flavor of olives.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups tomato juice
– 1 cup celery, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup green olives, pitted and sliced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons gelatin
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it soften for 5 minutes.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the tomato juice, chopped celery, sliced olives, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Remove from heat and add the softened gelatin, stirring until it’s fully dissolved.
5. Pour the aspic mixture into individual serving cups or a large mold.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Rainbow Ribbon Jello Dessert
A vibrant and playful dessert perfect for kids’ parties or any colorful celebration!
Ingredients:
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lemon-lime flavored gelatin
• 2 cups cold water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup fruit punch-flavored Jell-O
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup blue Gatorade or blue Kool-Aid (for the “ribbon” effect)
• Whipped cream and rainbow sprinkles for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the gelatin in boiling water.
2. Add the cold water to the gelatin mixture and stir until dissolved.
3. In a large bowl, combine the sugar, Jell-O, pineapple juice, and cooled gelatin mixture. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch pan or a mold of your choice.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
6. To create the “ribbon” effect, pour the blue Gatorade/Kool-Aid mixture over the top of the Jell-O, allowing it to flow down the sides and create a colorful ribbon pattern.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert requires no cooking. Simply chill in the refrigerator until set.
Strawberry Pretzel Jello Salad
This unique dessert combines the sweetness of strawberries with the salty flavor of pretzels, all wrapped up in a refreshing jello salad. Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened strawberry Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup crushed pretzels
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add the cold water and stir until the mixture is fully dissolved.
3. Stir in the crushed pretzels and let sit for 5 minutes to allow them to soften.
4. Fold in the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar.
5. Pour into a serving dish or individual cups.
6. Refrigerate until chilled, about 3 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready to serve once it’s chilled.
Orange Jello with Carrots and Raisins
This refreshing dessert combines the classic flavors of orange jello, crunchy carrots, and sweet raisins for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) orange Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup raisins
– Optional: whipped cream or chopped nuts for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the orange Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add cold water to the mixture and stir until dissolved.
3. Stir in the grated carrots and raisins.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch dish or individual cups.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is chilled, not cooked.
Enjoy your vibrant orange Jello with crunchy carrots and sweet raisins as a sweet treat!
Layered Cherry Jello and Cream Cheese Dessert
A sweet and tangy dessert that’s perfect for potlucks or family gatherings. This layered treat combines the flavors of cherry jello, cream cheese, and whipped topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cherry jello
– 1 cup cold water
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup whipped topping
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the jello in boiling water.
2. Add the cold water and stir until dissolved. Let cool to room temperature.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. To assemble the dessert, start with a layer of cooled jello in a 9×13 inch dish. Top with a layer of cream cheese mixture.
5. Repeat steps 1-4 two more times, ending with a layer of whipped topping on top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (preparation) + refrigeration time
Perfection Salad with Cabbage and Green Peppers
This crunchy and refreshing salad is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, featuring shredded cabbage, green peppers, and a tangy dressing. A great side dish or light lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 large green peppers, seeded and sliced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and sliced green peppers.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep) + 30 minutes (chill)
Lemon Jello with Grapes and Marshmallows
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your dessert game with this refreshing Lemon Jello recipe, perfectly complemented by sweet grapes and fluffy marshmallows.
Ingredients:
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lemon flavored Jell-O
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– 1 cup white grapes, halved
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the Lemon Jello in 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Add 1 cup of cold water and stir until the mixture is fully dissolved.
3. Whisk in 1 cup of heavy cream or whole milk until well combined.
4. Pour the jello mixture into a 9×13 inch pan or individual cups.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
6. Just before serving, arrange grapes and marshmallows on top of the jello.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready to be served chilled.
Shrimp and Avocado Jello Mold
A refreshing twist on traditional jello molds, this recipe combines the richness of shrimp with the creaminess of avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lemon Jell-O
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1/2 cup cold water
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the Jell-O into the boiling water and stir until dissolved.
2. Add the cold water and lemon juice; stir until combined.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the shrimp and avocado.
4. Pour the Jell-O mixture over the shrimp-avocado mixture and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to set.
5. Just before serving, sprinkle with salt to taste and garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (or overnight)
Raspberry Jello with Fresh Berries and Whipped Cream
Combine the sweetness of raspberry jello with the freshness of seasonal berries, topped with a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened raspberry jello
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 cups fresh raspberries and/or blackberries
– Optional: confectioner’s sugar for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the raspberry jello in boiling water.
2. Add the cold water and stir until completely dissolved.
3. Refrigerate the mixture until it has chilled and set (about 3-4 hours).
4. Just before serving, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
5. Cut fresh berries of your choice into bite-sized pieces and arrange on a serving dish or individual cups.
6. Pour the chilled jello over the berries and top with whipped cream.
7. Garnish with confectioner’s sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: None – simply chill the jello until set.
Pineapple Jello with Cream Cheese Topping
A sweet and tangy treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened pineapple jello
– 1 cup cold water
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Fresh pineapple wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the jello in boiling water. Add cold water and stir until dissolved.
2. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch pan or individual cups.
3. Refrigerate until set, about 3-4 hours.
4. To make the cream cheese topping, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
5. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until combined.
6. Stir in vanilla extract.
7. Spread the topping over the cooled jello.
8. Refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-bake recipe.
Celery and Green Pepper Jello Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional Jell-O salads, this Celery and Green Pepper Jello Salad is a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened green Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
– 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper
– 1/2 cup whipped topping or heavy cream
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, dissolve the Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add the cold water and stir until the Jell-O is fully dissolved.
3. Refrigerate until the mixture is set, about 3-4 hours.
4. Just before serving, fold in the chopped celery, diced green bell pepper, and whipped topping or heavy cream.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (chilling time) + 1 minute (whipping cream)
Apricot Jello with Mandarin Oranges
This refreshing dessert combines the natural sweetness of apricots with the tanginess of mandarin oranges, all wrapped up in a colorful jello package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened apricot jello
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained and chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the apricot jello in the boiling water.
2. Add the cold water and stir until the jello is fully dissolved.
3. Fold in the chopped mandarin oranges and honey until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe doesn’t require cooking. Just refrigerate and serve!
Peach Jello with Sour Cream Layer
This classic dessert is a refreshing twist on traditional jello, with the added creamy surprise of sour cream. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) peach flavor Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 8 oz can of crushed pineapple, drained
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Whipped topping and chopped pecans or walnuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Dissolve the Jell-O in boiling water. Add cold water and stir until completely dissolved.
2. Refrigerate until slightly thickened, about 30 minutes.
3. Stir in crushed pineapple.
4. Pour into a 9×13 inch dish or individual cups.
5. In a separate bowl, whip sour cream until smooth. Spoon over the Jell-O mixture.
6. Chill for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
7. Garnish with whipped topping and chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This is a chilled dessert.
Ginger Ale Jello with Pears
This refreshing dessert combines the spicy warmth of ginger ale with the sweetness of ripe pears, creating a unique and delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1 cup cold ginger ale
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 large pear, diced
– Whipped cream or chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/2 cup of boiling water and let it soften for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the softened gelatin, ginger ale, sugar, and honey. Heat over low heat, stirring until the gelatin is fully dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the diced pear.
4. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large mold.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
6. Top with whipped cream or chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep) + 3 hours (chilling)
Lime Jello and Cottage Cheese Surprise
A refreshing twist on traditional jello recipes, this sweet and tangy treat is perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lime jello
– 1 cup cold milk
– 16 oz cottage cheese
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the lime jello in boiling water.
2. Add the cold milk and stir until well combined.
3. Refrigerate for 30 minutes or until jello is set.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the cottage cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Once the jello has set, add the cottage cheese mixture on top of the jello.
6. Refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Serve: Chilled, in individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
Black Cherry Jello with Walnuts and Cream
This refreshing dessert is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick treat any time of the year. The combination of sweet black cherry jello, crunchy walnuts, and creamy whipped cream will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened black cherry Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Dissolve the Jell-O in boiling water. Add cold water and stir until fully dissolved.
2. Pour into a 9×13 inch pan and refrigerate until set, about 3-4 hours.
3. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped walnuts over the jello.
4. Whip heavy whipping cream with granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
5. Top the jello with whipped cream and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a refrigerated dessert.
Summary
Get ready to take a trip down memory lane with these 18 vintage Jell-O recipes from the 1950s! From classic combinations like lime and pineapple to more unexpected pairings like shrimp and avocado, these retro recipes are sure to bring back memories of a bygone era. With ingredients like cottage cheese, cream cheese, and even mandarin oranges, these desserts and salads are perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of nostalgia to their next gathering or party. So why not give one of these retro Jell-O recipes a try and relive the good old days?!
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