Print

Dr. Seuss Rainbow Jell-O Cups – Easy Kids Party Treats

Dr. Seuss Rainbow Jell-O Cups - featured image

These colorful, layered Dr. Seuss Rainbow Jell-O Cups are a fun, easy, and crowd-pleasing treat perfect for kids’ parties, school events, or any celebration. With vibrant stripes and a creamy optional layer, they’re as delightful to make as they are to eat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (3 oz) box strawberry Jell-O (or red flavor of choice)
  • 1 (3 oz) box orange Jell-O
  • 1 (3 oz) box lemon Jell-O (or pineapple for a twist)
  • 1 (3 oz) box lime Jell-O
  • 1 (3 oz) box blue raspberry Jell-O
  • 1 (3 oz) box grape Jell-O
  • 6 cups boiling water (1 cup per layer)
  • 6 cups cold water (1 cup per layer)
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk (optional, for creamy layer)
  • 2 envelopes (about 0.5 oz) unflavored gelatin (optional, for creamy layer)
  • 2 cups boiling water (for creamy layer, optional)
  • 1 can whipped cream (for topping)
  • Maraschino cherries (optional, for topping)
  • Sprinkles (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Arrange 8–10 clear plastic cups (8–9 oz each) on a baking tray. Make sure they’re clean and dry.
  2. For the first Jell-O layer (red): In a mixing bowl, add 1 box strawberry Jell-O. Pour in 1 cup boiling water and whisk until dissolved (about 2 minutes). Add 1 cup cold water and stir. Pour a thin layer (about 1/4 cup) into each cup. Refrigerate for 20–25 minutes, until set but not firm.
  3. Optional creamy layer: Combine 2 envelopes unflavored gelatin with 1/2 cup cold water in a bowl. Let stand 5 minutes, then add 2 cups boiling water and whisk until dissolved. Stir in 1 can sweetened condensed milk. Cool to room temperature. Pour a thin layer (2–3 tablespoons) over the set red layer. Chill another 15–20 minutes.
  4. Repeat with remaining Jell-O colors (orange, yellow, green, blue, grape): Prepare each flavor as above, pour over the previous layer, and chill 20–25 minutes between layers. Add creamy layers between colors if desired.
  5. After the final layer, chill cups for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to set completely.
  6. Just before serving, top each cup with whipped cream, a maraschino cherry, and sprinkles. Serve cold.

Notes

For best stripes, let each layer set until just firm before adding the next. Use sugar-free gelatin for a lighter version, or coconut condensed milk for dairy-free. Add whipped cream and toppings just before serving. Mini cups (4 oz) work well for classroom parties. Not recommended for freezing.

Nutrition

Keywords: rainbow jello cups, kids party treats, Dr. Seuss dessert, layered jello, easy party dessert, gluten-free, dairy-free option, colorful dessert, birthday snack, school party treat