Easter Jello Cookies Recipe

Introduction

Celebrate Easter with a burst of colors and flavors with these delightful Easter Jello Cookies. Combining the fun, fruity essence of Jell-O with a classic cookie base, these treats are perfect for any festive gathering. Perfectly chewy, vibrant, and easy to make, they promise to be a crowd-pleaser for children and adults alike. In this guide, we’ll walk you through making these cookies, from ingredients and preparation to serving suggestions and variations.

Ingredients:

To create approximately 3 dozen cookies, you’ll need the following:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 4 (3 oz) boxes Jell-O (strawberry, lemon, lime, and berry blue)
• Extra granulated sugar (for rolling)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture, mixing until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Divide and Color

Divide the dough into four equal portions. Add one package of Jell-O to each portion, mixing well until each dough portion is uniformly colored and flavored.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Shape the dough into small balls using your hands, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Roll each ball in extra granulated sugar to coat.

Step 7: Arrange and Flatten

Place the balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or your fingers.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. Avoid overbaking as the cookies should remain soft. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variation

Feel free to experiment with different Jell-O flavors to customize the colors and tastes. Consider using orange, grape, or cherry for new fruity experiences. You can also add mini chocolate chips or sprinkles for a fun twist.

Cooking Note:

• Ensure your butter is well softened for optimal mixing.
• If the dough feels sticky after adding the Jell-O, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before shaping.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve these vibrant cookies with a glass of milk or alongside a scoop of ice cream for a festive dessert. They also make colorful party favors or gifts when packaged in decorative bags.

Tips:

• Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes.
• Bake cookies in the middle of the oven for even heat distribution.
• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Timing Details:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes per batch
• Total Time: 45-60 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie, Approximate):

• Calories: 90
• Protein: 1g
• Sodium: 40mg

FAQs:

Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
A: Yes, but reduce the added salt by half to balance the flavors.

Q: How do I store these cookies?
A: Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare the dough and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to a month.

Conclusion

Easter Jello Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday celebration. Their vibrant colors, fruity flavors, and easy preparation make them a must-try treat. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or a festive party, these cookies will bring joy and sweetness to your Easter gathering. Try them today and enjoy a burst of fun in every bite!

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