Broken Glass is a nostalgic gelatin-based dessert popular in mid-20th century American kitchens. Known for its bright, jewel-toned cubes set in a creamy gelatin mixture, it resembles shards of stained glass, hence the name. Often served at potlucks, holidays, and family gatherings, it's a festive and colorful treat that balances fruity flavors with a creamy finish. Its playful texture and vibrant appearance make it a favorite for both kids and adults.
Ingredients
- 3 oz lemon gelatin (1 package)
- 3 oz orange gelatin (1 package)
- 3 oz lime gelatin (1 package)
- 3 oz red gelatin (1 package, likely cherry or strawberry)
- 1 sheet unflavored gelatin
- 1 cup pineapple juice (heated)
- 16 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- Water (to prepare flavored gelatins)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Flavored Gelatins
- Dissolve lemon, orange, lime, and red gelatin in separate pans as per package instructions.
- Chill until firm.
- Cut into small squares.
Step 2: Prepare Cream Base
- Dissolve unflavored gelatin in hot pineapple juice until fully dissolved.
- Cool slightly.
- Fold in whipped topping and mix well.
Step 3: Combine and Set
- Place colored gelatin cubes in a large 13×9-inch pan.
- Pour cream mixture over the cubes.
- Gently mix to distribute evenly.
- Chill until completely set.
Tips
- Use any color of Jell-O cubes you like to create a stained-glass look.
- Substitute whipped topping for whipped cream for a lighter texture.
- Add a teaspoon of vanilla to the lemon mixture for extra flavor.
- Use sugar-free gelatin and light whipped topping for a lower-calorie version.
- Chill the pan overnight for the cleanest slices.
- Add crushed pineapple (well drained) for a vintage variation.
- Use a clear glass dish to show off the “broken glass” colors.
- For holidays, choose matching Jell-O colors (red/green for Christmas, red/blue for July 4th).
- Cut the cubes large for chunky texture or small for a mosaic pattern.
- Serve with extra whipped cream on top for a classic presentation.
Nutrition
Calories: 165kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 3gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.5gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 115mgPotassium: 45mgSugar: 27gVitamin A: 190IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.1mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!