Broken Glass Jello is a fun and colorful dessert that has become a popular treat at parties and gatherings. The dessert gets its name from the unique “broken glass” effect created by layering different colors of gelatin. It is not only visually appealing but also delicious, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
The origin of Broken Glass Jello is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States. It gained popularity in the 1950s and 1960s as a fun and creative way to serve gelatin. Over the years, different variations of the recipe have emerged, allowing for endless possibilities when it comes to flavors and colors.
The “broken glass” effect is achieved by layering different colors of gelatin in a dish and allowing them to set. Once set, the gelatin is cut into cubes, resembling broken glass. The effect is created by using clear gelatin as a base and adding colored gelatin on top. As the gelatin sets, it creates distinct layers that resemble shards of glass.
Key Takeaways
- Broken Glass Jello is a fun and colorful dessert that is perfect for parties and gatherings.
- The ingredients for making Broken Glass Jello include flavored gelatin, unflavored gelatin, and sweetened condensed milk.
- To prepare the gelatin base, mix the flavored and unflavored gelatin with boiling water and sweetened condensed milk.
- To create the “Broken Glass” effect, pour the gelatin mixture into a pan and let it set before cutting it into small cubes.
- Adding food coloring to the gelatin mixture can create a variety of vibrant colors for the Broken Glass Jello.
- Layering the Broken Glass Jello in a dish can create a beautiful and eye-catching presentation.
- Refrigerate the Broken Glass Jello for several hours or overnight to allow it to set.
- Cutting and serving the Broken Glass Jello can be tricky, but using a sharp knife and warm water can help.
- Variations on the Broken Glass Jello recipe include using different flavors of gelatin or adding fruit or whipped cream.
- Tips and tricks for making perfect Broken Glass Jello include using a non-stick pan, greasing the pan with cooking spray, and being patient while the gelatin sets.
Ingredients for Making Broken Glass Jello
To make Broken Glass Jello, you will need the following ingredients:
– 4 packages (3 ounces each) of flavored gelatin (choose different colors for variety)
– 4 envelopes (1/4 ounce each) of unflavored gelatin
– 4 cups of boiling water
– 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk
The flavored gelatin provides the color and flavor for the dessert, while the unflavored gelatin helps to set the layers. The boiling water is used to dissolve the gelatin, and the sweetened condensed milk is used to create the white layer that resembles broken glass.
Preparing the Gelatin Base for Broken Glass Jello
To make the gelatin base for Broken Glass Jello, follow these steps:
1. In a large bowl, combine the flavored gelatin and unflavored gelatin.
2. Add the boiling water to the bowl and stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
3. Let the mixture cool slightly before pouring it into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Place the dish in the refrigerator and let it set for about 2 hours, or until firm.
It is important to let the gelatin base set properly before adding the colored layers. This will ensure that the layers do not mix together and that the “broken glass” effect is achieved.
Creating the “Broken Glass” Effect with Gelatin
To create the “broken glass” effect with gelatin, follow these steps:
1. Prepare different colors of gelatin according to the package instructions.
2. Once the gelatin base has set, cut it into small cubes using a sharp knife.
3. Place the cubes in a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading them out evenly.
4. Pour one color of gelatin over the cubes, making sure to cover them completely.
5. Place the dish in the refrigerator and let it set for about 30 minutes, or until firm.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 with different colors of gelatin until all the cubes are covered.
The key to achieving the desired texture is to make sure that each layer of gelatin is fully set before adding another layer. This will prevent the colors from mixing together and ensure that each layer remains distinct.
Adding Color to Broken Glass Jello
There are several ways to add color to Broken Glass Jello. Here are some suggestions:
– Use flavored gelatin in different colors: This is the most common way to add color to Broken Glass Jello. Choose flavors that complement each other and create a visually appealing dessert.
– Use food coloring: If you want more vibrant colors or want to create custom colors, you can add a few drops of food coloring to the gelatin mixture before pouring it over the cubes.
– Use natural coloring: If you prefer to use natural ingredients, you can use fruit juices or purees to color the gelatin. For example, you can use beet juice for red, spinach juice for green, or blueberry puree for blue.
When adding color to the gelatin, it is important to remember that a little goes a long way. Start with a small amount and add more if needed. You can always adjust the color later by adding more gelatin or food coloring.
Layering Broken Glass Jello in a Dish
To layer Broken Glass Jello in a dish, follow these steps:
1. Prepare the different colors of gelatin according to the package instructions.
2. Once the gelatin base has set, cut it into small cubes using a sharp knife.
3. Place the cubes in a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading them out evenly.
4. Pour one color of gelatin over the cubes, making sure to cover them completely.
5. Place the dish in the refrigerator and let it set for about 30 minutes, or until firm.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 with different colors of gelatin until all the cubes are covered.
When layering the gelatin, it is important to pour each layer slowly and gently to avoid disturbing the cubes underneath. This will help maintain the distinct layers and create a visually appealing dish.
Refrigerating and Setting Broken Glass Jello
After layering Broken Glass Jello in a dish, it needs to be refrigerated and set before it can be served. The dessert should be refrigerated for at least 2 hours, or until it is firm to the touch.
To ensure that the dessert sets properly, make sure that each layer of gelatin is fully set before adding another layer. This will prevent the colors from mixing together and ensure that each layer remains distinct.
Cutting and Serving Broken Glass Jello
To cut and serve Broken Glass Jello, follow these tips:
1. Once the dessert is fully set, remove it from the refrigerator.
2. Use a sharp knife to cut the gelatin into small cubes.
3. Carefully transfer the cubes to a serving dish or individual bowls.
4. Serve the dessert chilled.
Broken Glass Jello can be served as is, or you can top it with whipped cream or fresh fruit for added flavor and presentation.
Variations on the Broken Glass Jello Recipe
There are endless possibilities when it comes to flavor combinations for Broken Glass Jello. Here are some suggestions:
– Rainbow: Use different colors of gelatin to create a rainbow effect.
– Tropical: Use flavors like pineapple, mango, and coconut for a tropical twist.
– Berry Blast: Use flavors like strawberry, raspberry, and blueberry for a fruity burst.
– Citrus Delight: Use flavors like orange, lemon, and lime for a refreshing citrus flavor.
You can also experiment with different combinations of flavors to create your own unique variations.
Tips and Tricks for Making Perfect Broken Glass Jello
Here are some additional tips for making perfect Broken Glass Jello:
– Make sure to dissolve the gelatin completely in boiling water before pouring it over the cubes. This will ensure that the gelatin sets properly.
– When cutting the gelatin into cubes, make sure to use a sharp knife to get clean edges.
– If you want more vibrant colors, you can add a few drops of food coloring to the gelatin mixture before pouring it over the cubes.
– To achieve a more solid texture, you can increase the amount of unflavored gelatin used in the recipe.
– If you want to speed up the setting process, you can place the dessert in the freezer for a shorter amount of time.
Common mistakes to avoid when making Broken Glass Jello include not letting the gelatin base set properly before adding the colored layers, pouring the gelatin too quickly and disturbing the cubes, and not using enough gelatin to achieve a solid texture.
In conclusion, Broken Glass Jello is a fun and colorful dessert that is sure to impress your guests. With its unique “broken glass” effect and endless flavor combinations, it is a treat that both kids and adults will enjoy. By following the steps and tips outlined in this article, you can create a perfect batch of Broken Glass Jello every time. So go ahead and give it a try at your next party or gathering!
If you’re looking for another unique and delicious recipe to try, check out this article on Flavorful Sips: “Loganberries Unleashed: Flavor Uses.” Loganberries are a lesser-known fruit that can add a burst of flavor to a variety of dishes. From desserts to cocktails, this article explores the versatility of loganberries and provides creative ways to incorporate them into your cooking. So, if you’re ready to experiment with new flavors, click here to discover the exciting world of loganberries!
