Broken glass jello is made with four different colors and flavors of jello, cubed and suspended in a sweet, creamy gelatin base. The result looks like vibrant shards of stained glass set in a milky gelatin, an eye-catching dessert that’s easy to customize for any holiday or gathering.

Why this recipe works
Also called stained glass jello, this recipe combines multiple flavors and colors of set jello, cut into cubes and gently mixed together. Those cubes are then poured over with a mixture of unflavored gelatin and sweetened condensed milk that sets into a creamy white layer. The contrast of vivid colored cubes against the white gelatin creates a dramatic and attractive dessert. It’s surprisingly simple to make and is a great project for kids to help with, since many of the steps are hands-on but uncomplicated.

Ingredients you will need
Measurements and a printable recipe follow in the recipe card below. Use any combination of colors and flavors you prefer—this recipe is very adaptable.

Ingredient info and substitution suggestions
Jello: Choose any four flavors and colors you like. Common choices are cherry, orange, lemon, and blue raspberry, but feel free to customize for holidays—red and green for Christmas, pastels for spring, or team colors for a game day. Sugar-free jello packets can be used as a lower-calorie option.
Unflavored gelatin and sweetened condensed milk: The clear gelatin dissolved in hot water firms the creamy layer, while the sweetened condensed milk adds sweetness and a smooth, opaque finish. Be sure to cool the white gelatin mixture before pouring it over the colored cubes so the cubes don’t melt or lose shape.
How to make broken glass jello
Step-by-step photos and helpful tips are included above and below. The instructions are straightforward—start by preparing and setting the colored jello, then cube it and combine it in a baking dish. Finish by pouring the cooled white gelatin mixture and refrigerating until fully set.
- Lightly spray four small square or rectangular containers with non-stick cooking spray. Glass food storage containers, about 6″ square, work well.
- Add one packet of flavored jello and 1 cup of boiling water to each container. Whisk until the jello is completely dissolved.
- Cover or place lids on containers, if available, and refrigerate until set, about 2 hours.
- When set, remove the jello from the refrigerator and cut each flavor into small cubes.
- Lightly spray the bottom and sides of a 9×13 glass baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Transfer the colored jello cubes into the prepared 9×13 dish and toss gently to distribute the colors evenly.
- In a separate bowl, dissolve two packets (0.5 oz total) of unflavored gelatin in 2 cups boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved. Whisk in one 14 oz can of sweetened condensed milk. Allow this mixture to cool to room temperature before using.
- Pour the cooled white gelatin mixture evenly over the colored jello cubes in the 9×13 dish. Return to the refrigerator and chill until fully set, about 3–4 hours.
- Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Frequently asked questions & expert tips
Storage: Cover the jello with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. Properly stored, it will keep for up to 3 days.
Tip: Let the white gelatin cool completely before pouring it over the colored cubes so the vibrant pieces keep their shape. Also, make sure each flavored jello is firmly set before cutting into cubes—soft or partially set jello can tear while being handled.

Serving suggestions
For a decorative presentation, make this recipe in a bundt pan and slice it like a cake—each slice will show colorful “stained glass” pieces inside a creamy white matrix. You can tailor flavors and colors for seasonal events or themed parties: pastel jello varieties for Easter, red-white-blue combinations for patriotic holidays, or autumn tones for fall gatherings. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a few fresh berries if desired.
More jello recipes
- Jello trifle variations featuring layers of cake, pudding, and jello.
- Jello roll ups and handheld jello desserts for parties.
- Fruit-forward jello salads and creamy mousses for potlucks and holidays.
I enjoy sharing tested, approachable recipes that home cooks can rely on. If you like easy, colorful desserts like this one, consider saving the recipe for later so you can make it for your next gathering.

Broken Glass Jello
A colorful, customizable jello dessert that looks like shards of stained glass suspended in a creamy gelatin base. Perfect for parties and holidays.
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Servings: 20 servings
Total time: About 2 hrs 30 mins (plus chilling)
Calories: Approximately 131 per serving
Author: Amanda Davis
Ingredients
- 12 oz jello (four 3 oz boxes in any colors/flavors — e.g., cherry, orange, lemon, blue raspberry)
- 6 cups boiling water, divided
- 0.50 oz clear gelatin (two 0.25 oz packets)
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk (1 can)
- Non-stick cooking spray
Things you’ll need
- 9×13 baking dish
- Four small square or rectangular containers for setting the flavored jello (about 6″ square)
Before you begin
- The white gelatin mixture must be cooled before pouring over the colored cubes, or the colored jello will melt.
- Ensure each flavored jello is fully set before cutting into cubes to avoid tearing.
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Instructions
- Spray four small square or rectangular containers with non-stick cooking spray.
- Add one jello packet and 1 cup boiling water to each container. Whisk until dissolved.
- Refrigerate the containers until set, about 2 hours.
- Cut set jello into small cubes.
- Spray a 9×13 glass baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Place the colored jello cubes into the baking dish and distribute them evenly.
- Dissolve the two packets of unflavored gelatin in 2 cups boiling water. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and cool to room temperature.
- Pour the cooled white gelatin over the colored cubes and refrigerate until completely set, 3–4 hours.
- Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 131 | Carbohydrates: 26 g | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 2 g | Sugar: 25 g
Recipes on this site are tested using conventional kitchen equipment. Oven and appliance performance can vary; adjust times and temperatures as needed for your equipment. For best results in baked recipes, measuring by weight is recommended when provided.