Jell-O Cream Cheese Squares are a delightful, retro-style dessert that’s creamy, fruity, and refreshingly light. Each bite brings a mix of velvety cream cheese filling and wiggly, colorful Jell-O, all layered over a buttery graham cracker crust. This classic treat has been a potluck favorite for decades because it’s simple to make, easy to slice, and irresistibly nostalgic. The bright, jewel-toned gelatin makes it a showstopper on any dessert table — perfect for holidays, summer gatherings, or just a fun family dessert night.
2. Ingredients
For the Crust:
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1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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6 tablespoons melted butter
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
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8 ounces cream cheese, softened
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1 cup powdered sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip) or whipped heavy cream
For the Jell-O Layer:
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1 box (6 ounces) flavored Jell-O gelatin (strawberry, lime, orange, or your choice)
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2 cups boiling water
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2 cups cold water
Optional Garnish:
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Whipped cream
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Fresh fruit matching your Jell-O flavor (berries, pineapple, etc.)
3. Instructions
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Prepare the crust:
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly moistened. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch pan. Chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to set. -
Make the cream cheese layer:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy. Fold in whipped topping gently until fully combined. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust. Return to the fridge while preparing the Jell-O. -
Prepare the Jell-O layer:
In a medium bowl, dissolve Jell-O in boiling water. Stir for about 2 minutes to ensure it fully dissolves. Add the cold water and stir again. Let the Jell-O cool slightly for 15–20 minutes until it’s just starting to thicken (this helps it layer neatly without sinking into the cream cheese). -
Assemble the dessert:
Carefully pour the slightly thickened Jell-O over the cream cheese layer. Smooth the surface gently with a spoon if needed. -
Chill until set:
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the Jell-O is completely firm. -
Slice and serve:
Cut into neat squares using a sharp knife. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for smooth edges. Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh fruit if desired.
4. Preparation Time
Total: 4 hours 45 minutes (includes chilling)
Prep: 25 minutes
Chill: 4 hours 20 minutes
5. Serving
Serves 9–12 squares
6. Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 260 kcal
Protein: 4 g
Fat: 15 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Sugar: 22 g
Sodium: 180 mg
7. Tips
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Choose bold Jell-O flavors: Strawberry, raspberry, and lime work best for bright contrast.
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Cool the Jell-O before layering: Pouring hot Jell-O directly can melt the cream cheese layer.
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Add fruit: For extra texture, fold diced fruit (like strawberries or pineapple) into the Jell-O before pouring it on top.
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Use a glass dish: It shows off the pretty layers beautifully.
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Keep chilled: These squares are best served cold and stored in the refrigerator.
8. Final Thought
Jell-O Cream Cheese Squares are the perfect mix of creamy, fruity, and nostalgic. They’re easy to make, look gorgeous, and deliver that classic combination of tangy cream cheese and sweet gelatin everyone loves. Whether you’re making them for a picnic, holiday dessert table, or a cheerful midweek treat, these squares bring a pop of color and a touch of old-fashioned joy to every bite.
