This Summer Berry Jello Lasagna is a colorful and sweet treat perfect for sunny days! With layers of creamy filling, fresh berries, and fruity jello, it’s a refreshing delight.
Making this dish is a breeze! I love how each bite brings a burst of berry goodness. Plus, it looks so bright and cheerful—great for impressing friends at a picnic! 🍓🍇
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This adds a rich, creamy layer. If you’re after a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead. It has a similar texture and tangy flavor.
Powdered Sugar: A must for sweetness in the cream cheese layer. You could also use honey or maple syrup, but remember it might change the texture a bit.
Whipped Topping: I love using Cool Whip for its smoothness. If you prefer homemade, replace it with freshly whipped cream. Just sweeten it a touch for extra flavor.
Vanilla Pudding Mix: For a richer taste, homemade vanilla pudding works well. If you want to avoid it, try using a custard mix as a substitute.
Jello: The blue and strawberry jellos create a vibrant look. If you want a natural alternative, consider making your own gelatin with fruit juice. It won’t quite have the same flavor, but it’s a fun twist!
Yellow Cake or Sponge Cake: Pre-baked cakes save time, but you can use ladyfingers or even brownies for a unique twist!
How Can I Ensure My Jello Layers Set Perfectly?
The key to perfect Jello layers is letting them cool and set properly. After mixing the Jello with boiling water, make sure it cools down a bit before pouring it over the cake. Here’s how:
- Stir the Jello with boiling water until fully dissolved, then add the cold water.
- Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it’s cool but still liquid. This helps prevent it from melting the cake layer.
- After pouring each layer, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until it’s firm to the touch before adding the next layer.
These steps will help you achieve those beautifully distinct layers in your Summer Berry Jello Lasagna!
How to Make Summer Berry Jello Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base and Layers:
- 1 package (10 oz) pre-baked yellow cake or sponge cake
- Fresh strawberries, sliced (for layering)
- Fresh blueberries (for layering)
For the Creamy Mixture:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1 box (3.4 oz) vanilla instant pudding mix
- 2 cups milk
For the Jello Layers:
- 1 package (3 oz) blue jello
- 1 package (3 oz) strawberry jello
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup cold water
For the Decoration:
- Red, white, and blue sprinkles (for decorating)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Summer Berry Jello Lasagna takes about 20 minutes to prepare and requires a chilling time of at least 2 hours for the flavors to meld and the layers to set. It’s a refreshing dessert perfect for summer gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Jello Layers:
Start by preparing the blue jello. In a mixing bowl, combine the blue jello packet with 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until it is fully dissolved, then add 1 cup of cold water. Set this aside to cool slightly.
2. Make the Vanilla Pudding Mixture:
In another bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and 2 cups of milk until thickened. Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping gently until everything is mixed well. Set this creamy mixture aside for later.
3. Prepare the Strawberry Jello:
In a separate bowl, mix the strawberry jello with 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until it dissolves. Once it has cooled slightly, set this aside as well.
4. Assemble the Lasagna:
Take a rectangular or square dish and start layering. Place the yellow cake at the bottom of the dish.
5. Layer with Blue Jello:
Pour the blue jello over the cake layer and place the dish in the refrigerator. Let it chill for about 30 minutes, or until the jello is set.
6. Add the Vanilla Pudding Layer:
Once the blue jello has firmed up, spoon the vanilla pudding mixture over it, spreading it evenly. Add a layer of sliced strawberries and blueberries on top of the pudding.
7. Top with Strawberry Jello:
Pour the strawberry jello over the pudding layer and place it back in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes, or until this top layer is set.
8. Add Whipped Topping:
After the strawberry jello has set, spread the remaining whipped topping over the top layer, smoothing it out.
9. Decorate:
Finish by decorating with red, white, and blue sprinkles. If you’d like, feel free to add more fresh berries for an extra pop of color and flavor.
10. Chill Before Serving:
For the best flavor and texture, chill the assembled lasagna in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. This will make it even more delightful!
Enjoy your refreshing and festive Summer Berry Jello Lasagna!
Can I Use Different Flavors of Jello?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the blue and strawberry jello with your favorite flavors, like raspberry or orange. Just keep in mind that the colors might change, but it’ll still taste delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Just make sure to use a gluten-free cake or sponge cake. Check the packaging on the jello and pudding mix too, as most are naturally gluten-free but it’s always good to double-check!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you find the layers are separating a bit, give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh the texture!
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance. Just make sure to cover it well with plastic wrap to keep it fresh in the refrigerator.
