What happens when you combine the simplicity of homemade meringue with the fun of colorful jello and a little creativity in the kitchen with quick and easy baking methods and key ingredients like sugar and egg whites? You get a treats perfect for a family favorite weeknight dinner dessert – Save this idea

colorful jello meringue cookies on a white plate with mountains in the background

Introduction

Imagine a dish that embodies the perfect blend of fun, creativity, and deliciousness – welcome to the world of colorful jello meringue cookies. These vibrant treats are not just a feast for the eyes but also a symphony of flavors that will leave you and your loved ones craving for more. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make, using everyday ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to bring out the artist in you, allowing you to experiment with colors, flavors, and textures in a way that’s both relaxing and rewarding.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of sweet meringue and tangy jello creates a unique taste experience that’s hard to resist. Plus, the ingredients are easy to find in most grocery stores, making this recipe accessible to anyone.
• Ease of preparation: Despite the impressive results, the process of making these cookies is surprisingly straightforward. With simple steps and minimal equipment required, it’s a perfect project for a lazy afternoon or a fun activity with the kids.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The colorful presentation of these cookies makes them perfect for parties, gatherings, or even as a special treat for a weekday. They’re sure to impress your guests with their vibrant colors and delicious taste, all achieved with minimal fuss and effort.

Key Ingredients

To make these colorful jello meringue cookies, you’ll need a few key ingredients. First, you’ll need meringue cookies, which can be store-bought or homemade. For the jello part, you’ll need unflavored gelatin, granulated sugar, boiling water, and your choice of jello flavors and colors. Additionally, you might want to have some whipped cream or powdered sugar on hand for decoration. Practical substitutions can be made with the jello flavors and colors, allowing you to customize the cookies to your favorite hues and tastes.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing your meringue cookies. If you’re using store-bought cookies, skip to the next step. For homemade cookies, preheat your oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and draw circles of about 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter to use as a guide for your meringue drops.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag fitted with a round tip and pipe onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meringues are crisp and dry. Allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet.
3. Step 3: While the meringues are baking, prepare your jello. In a small bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it soften for about 5 minutes. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and 1 cup of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and add the softened gelatin, stirring until it’s fully dissolved. Remove from heat and add your choice of jello flavors and colors. Let it cool slightly before proceeding.
4. Step 4: Once the meringues are cool and the jello mixture has cooled slightly, it’s time to assemble your cookies. Place a meringue cookie on a serving plate or a wire rack set over parchment paper. Spoon a small amount of the jello mixture over the top of the meringue, allowing it to set before serving. You can decorate with whipped cream or powdered sugar if desired.

Handy Tips

• To avoid messing up your jello, make sure the gelatin is fully dissolved before adding the jello flavors and colors. Also, don’t overmix the jello mixture, as it can become too stiff and difficult to work with.

Heat Control

For the meringue cookies, it’s crucial to maintain a consistent oven temperature of 200°F (90°C) to ensure they dry out properly without browning. For the jello, heating the sugar and water mixture to dissolve the sugar and then adding the gelatin requires gentle heat to prevent the gelatin from not dissolving properly or the mixture from becoming too hot and watery.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in these cookies comes from the meringue base, which is crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. To achieve this texture, it’s essential to not open the oven door during the baking time and to let the meringues cool completely on the baking sheet. The jello topping adds a soft and jelly-like contrast to the crunchy meringue, creating a delightful texture combination.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For easier cleanup, line your baking sheet with parchment paper before piping the meringue mixture. This will prevent the meringues from sticking and make removal much simpler.
• Experiment with different jello flavors and colors to create unique and personalized cookies. You can also add a few drops of food coloring to the meringue mixture before baking for an extra pop of color.

Storage Tips

• Store the meringue cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’re not planning to serve the cookies immediately, it’s best to store the meringues and jello mixture separately and assemble just before serving to maintain the best texture and freshness.

Gift Packaging Ideas

These colorful jello meringue cookies are perfect for gifting, especially during holidays or special occasions. Consider packaging them in clear cellophane bags or containers and tying with a ribbon. You can also add a personal touch by including a handwritten note or a small decorative element that matches the colors of the cookies.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding a pinch of salt or a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the meringue mixture for added depth of flavor.
• Creative toppings: Instead of jello, you can top your meringue cookies with whipped cream, melted chocolate, or even crushed nuts for a different texture and flavor combination.
• Ingredient swaps: For a gluten-free version, ensure that your meringue cookies are made with gluten-free ingredients. You can also experiment with different types of sugar or flavor extracts in the jello mixture.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your meringues turn out too chewy, it might be because they weren’t baked long enough. Try baking them for an additional 30 minutes to an hour. If the jello is too runny, it might not have cooled enough before serving.
• Ingredient replacements: If you’re out of gelatin, you can try using agar agar as a substitute, though the texture might be slightly different. Always read the package instructions for the right ratio of agar agar to water.
• Over/undercooking signs: For meringues, check for crispiness on the outside and dryness on the inside. For the jello, make sure it’s set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the meringue cookies for up to 2 months. However, it’s best to assemble the cookies with jello just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
• Is it gluten-free? The meringue cookies can be made gluten-free by ensuring all ingredients used are gluten-free. The jello mixture is naturally gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe for more cookies. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as it might vary slightly with more meringues in the oven.

Conclusion

Making colorful jello meringue cookies is a fun and rewarding experience that combines creativity with delicious flavors. With these simple steps and handy tips, you’re well on your way to creating a dessert that’s not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors and flavors, and most importantly, enjoy the process and share your creations with loved ones. Happy baking!