This Frozen Creamy Lime Jello is a dreamy dessert that combines zesty lime with velvety cream for a refreshing treat. With just 10 minutes of prep and a few hours to chill, it’s the perfect make-ahead delight for any occasion. The smooth, creamy texture melts on your tongue, while the bright citrus flavor dances with a hint of sweetness. It’s light yet indulgent, making it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. Plus, its vibrant green hue adds a pop of color to your table. Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a cozy family dinner, this dessert is sure to impress with its effortless charm and irresistible taste.
Packed with creamy richness and a tangy kick, this dessert is a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The cool, refreshing bite is perfect for hot days, while the creamy base adds a touch of decadence. Each spoonful is a burst of citrusy brightness, complemented by the smooth, almost mousse-like consistency. It’s a dessert that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to whip up. With only 4 hours of chilling time, you can set it and forget it until it’s time to serve. Treat yourself to this luscious, lime-infused creation—it’s a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
What You’ll Need for Frozen Creamy Lime Jello
- 8 ounces crushed pineapple (do not drain – the juice adds flavor and moisture)
- ½ cup sugar (adjust to taste if you prefer less sweetness)
- 3 ounces lime Jell-o (or substitute with orange Jell-o for a citrus twist)
- ½ pint whipping cream (unflavored, no need to add sugar)
- 1 cup sour cream (full-fat works best for creaminess)
How to Make Frozen Creamy Lime Jello
- Cook the pineapple mixture: In a saucepan, combine the crushed pineapple (with juice) and sugar. Bring to a full rolling boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, remove from heat.
- Add the Jell-o: Stir in the lime Jell-o until fully dissolved. Let the mixture cool to room temperature (about 10-15 minutes).
- Prepare the whipped cream: In a separate bowl, whip the whipping cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the sour cream until smooth and well combined.
- Combine the mixtures: Add the whipped cream mixture to the cooled Jell-o mixture. Whip together until fully incorporated and creamy.
- Prepare the pan: Line the bottom of a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan with wax paper for easy removal later.
- Pour and freeze: Gently pour the creamy Jell-o mixture into the prepared pan. Cover with aluminum foil and freeze for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight, until firm.
- Serve: When ready to eat, remove from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes. Slice in half lengthwise, then into ¾-inch slices for serving.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
This Frozen Creamy Lime Jello is a refreshing dessert that pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings and sides. For a tropical twist, serve it with a drizzle of coconut cream or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a few fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries for a burst of color and flavor. It also makes a delightful addition to a summer brunch spread alongside light pastries or fruit salad.
Storage Tips: Keeping It Fresh
This dessert is best stored in the freezer to maintain its creamy texture. Once frozen, cover the loaf pan tightly with aluminum foil or transfer slices to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 2 weeks. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes to soften slightly for easy slicing. Avoid refreezing after thawing to prevent texture changes.
Recipe Variations: Mix It Up
Feel free to experiment with different flavors to suit your taste! Swap out the lime Jell-o for orange or raspberry for a fruity twist. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier, protein-packed version. For a lighter option, try using low-fat whipped topping in place of whipping cream. The possibilities are endless!
Time-Saving Tips: Quick and Easy Prep
To save time, prepare the jello mixture the night before and let it chill in the fridge overnight. When you’re ready to whip the cream, use a stand mixer or hand mixer to speed up the process. If you’re short on time, you can also use pre-whipped cream, but be sure to fold it gently to maintain the dessert’s airy texture.
Equipment Guidance: Tools for Success
For this recipe, a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan is ideal for shaping the dessert. Lining it with wax paper ensures easy removal and clean slices. A sturdy whisk or electric mixer is essential for whipping the cream to stiff peaks. If you don’t have a loaf pan, a similar-sized baking dish will work, but the slices may be less uniform.
Frozen Creamy Lime Jello
Ingredients
- 8 ounces crushed pineapple, do not drain
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 3 ounces lime Jell-o, or orange Jello
- 1/2 pint whipping cream
- 1 cup sour cream
Instructions
- In a saucepan, bring pineapple and sugar to full rolling boil on stove-top; remove from heat.
- Stir in box of jello and let cool.
- In a separate bowl, whip whipping cream (unflavored – don’t worry about adding any sugar because this dish is sweet enough). Fold in sour cream to whipped cream, then add to jello mix and whip until it’s completely mixed together.
- Line bottom of 9 x 5″ loaf pan with wax paper. Gently pour creamy jello mix into prepared pan.
- Cover with aluminum foil and freeze for at least 4-6 hours (preferably overnight).
- When ready to eat, remove from the freezer and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Slice in half lengthwise, and then into 3/4″ slices.