Mixed Berry Jello Dessert

Make a 2 layer mixed berry jello dessert with simple ingredients as a great make ahead sweet treat that the whole family will fall in love with.

Mad about summer berry recipes? Don’t miss these recipes with my favorite berry recipes. You’ll also enjoy this berry cheesecake tart and this easy banana split.

Why You’ll Love It

Super pretty: The vibrant colors of the mixed berries and the glossy jello layer make this dessert a beautiful dish.
Make-ahead friendly: Get organized for parties or gatherings with these great make-ahead creamy jello fruit bars.
Kid-friendly: The sweet, fruity flavors and fun, jiggly texture make this dessert a hit with kids.
Light and refreshing: This dessert is great as a summer recipe and a yummy end to any meal without being too heavy or rich.

Ingredients For This Berry Jello Dessert

A complete list of ingredients and amounts can be found in the recipe card below.

Graham cracker crumbs: For a uniform crust, use finely crushed graham crackers. Crush them in a food processor, place them in a ziplock bag, and roll them over with a rolling pin.
Unsalted butter, melted: Melted unsalted butter binds the graham cracker crumbs together and ensures the crust holds its shape. Using unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness of the crust.
Strawberry jello: Provides a sweet and fruity base for the dessert. You can use regular or sugar-free jello depending on your preference.
Unflavored gelatin envelopes: Add extra stability to the filling, ensuring it sets properly. Make sure to dissolve it fully in hot water to avoid lumps.
Sweetened condensed milk: For creaminess and sweetness in the filling. Use sweetened condensed milk, not evaporated milk, as the latter is not sweetened.
Berries: Use fresh or frozen mixed berries, like blueberries, raspberries, and sliced strawberries. If using frozen mixed berries, make sure to thaw them first. Adding frozen berries without thawing will dilute the jello mixture.

How to Make Creamy Jello Fruit Bars

For more detailed instructions with weights and measurements, jump to the printable recipe card.

Make the base: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a large bowl or medium bowl until well combined. Press into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish in an even layer and bake in the oven for 8 minutes. Remove and allow the crust to cool thoroughly.
Make the filling: Meanwhile, in a large mixing bowl, whisk together the jello, gelatine packet, and boiling water until the jello is completely dissolved. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk until combined. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
Set the dessert: Pour the mixture over the cooled crust. Spread the mixed berries across the top. Return to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 to 6 hours or until firm. Overnight is preferable. Slice and serve.

Substitutions and Variations

Mixed berry jello cake: Use a light sponge or a pre-made angel food cake as the base. Prepare a mixed berry jello, pour it over the cake, and set it. Top with a whipped cream topping or cool whip and more fresh berries for a beautiful presentation.
Graham cracker crumbs: Use crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or shortbread cookies.
Strawberry jello: Make this with any flavor of jello that complements the berries, like raspberry jello or mixed berry jello.
Berries: Try other fruits like mangoes, peaches, or kiwis. If using frozen fruit, ensure it is thoroughly thawed and drained.
Unsalted butter: Swap salted butter (reduce added salt in the recipe) for margarine.

Serving Suggestions

Appetizer: Whip up these fun crab egg rolls or this Crockpot taco dip to start.
Main: Make a light summery salad for mains, maybe this grilled BBQ chicken salad or a tasty beef and noodles recipe. Try this margherita pizza as a vegetarian main course.
Dessert: For the final part of your meal, serve these mixed berry jello squares as they are or with Cool Whip or any other whipped topping or light cream mixture like cream cheese whipped up with powdered sugar.

How to Store A Berry Jello Dessert

Store: Leftover triple berry jello dessert can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 or 4 days.
Freezer: To prevent freezer burn, wrap leftovers in individual portions of the berry lemon jello dessert tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.
Thaw: Transfer the frozen dessert from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw slowly overnight to preserve its texture and prevent layer separation. Avoid thawing at room temperature to maintain the integrity of the jello and cream layers.