19 Refreshing Orange Jello Recipes Perfect for Summer

Summer calls for bright, citrusy treats that are as fun to make as they are to eat! Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just craving a cool, refreshing dessert, these 19 orange jello recipes are your ticket to sweet, wobbly bliss. From creamy dreamy parfaits to zesty no-bake delights, there’s a jiggly masterpiece here for every occasion. Let’s dive in—your taste buds will thank you!

Orange Jello with Fresh Citrus Slices

Bright, zesty, and refreshing—this jiggly citrus treat is a sunny escape in every bite, perfect for potlucks or a light dessert.

Ingredients:

• 1 (3 oz) package orange-flavored gelatin
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 medium orange, thinly sliced (seeds removed)
• 1/2 medium lemon, thinly sliced (seeds removed)
• 1/2 medium lime, thinly sliced (seeds removed)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, dissolve the orange-flavored gelatin in 1 cup boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved (about 2 minutes).
2. Stir in 1 cup cold water, then gently add the orange, lemon, and lime slices, arranging a few against the sides of your mold or dish for a pretty layered effect.
3. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until completely set. To serve, dip the mold briefly in warm water, then invert onto a plate.

The citrus slices suspend like edible stained glass, adding bursts of fresh flavor to every spoonful. For a fun twist, try using mini mason jars for individual servings!

Tip: For extra sparkle, sprinkle the top with finely grated citrus zest before chilling.

Creamy Orange Jello Mousse

This dreamy mousse blends the bright tang of orange with a fluffy, cloud-like texture—perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself!

Ingredients:

• 1 (3 oz) package orange Jell-O
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1/2 cup cold water
• 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Orange zest (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk the orange Jell-O with 1 cup boiling water until fully dissolved. Stir in 1/2 cup cold water, then refrigerate for 30 minutes until slightly thickened (it should coat the back of a spoon).
2. In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream, 2 tbsp powdered sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla extract with a hand mixer until stiff peaks form.
3. Gently fold the whipped cream into the partially set Jell-O until no streaks remain. Divide into serving glasses and chill for 2 hours, or until firm.
4. Top with orange zest before serving, if desired.

The magic here? The Jell-O gives the mousse a silky structure without gelatin packets, while the whipped cream keeps it airy and light.

Tip: For a citrusy twist, swap the vanilla extract with 1/2 tsp almond extract—it’s a game-changer!

Orange Jello and Pineapple Parfait

This sunny, layered dessert is a nostalgic crowd-pleaser—creamy, fruity, and just sweet enough to feel like a treat.

Ingredients

• 1 (3 oz) box orange Jell-O
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained (reserve 2 tbsp juice)
• 1 cup thawed whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Dissolve Jell-O in 1 cup boiling water, stirring 2 minutes. Add 1 cup cold water and stir. Refrigerate 1 hour or until slightly thickened (like runny syrup).
2. Gently fold crushed pineapple into the Jell-O. Divide mixture among 4 glasses, filling halfway. Chill 2 hours or until fully set.
3. In a bowl, whisk whipped topping, 2 tbsp powdered sugar, 2 tbsp reserved pineapple juice, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract until smooth. Spoon over set Jell-O layers.
4. Chill 30 minutes before serving.

The magic here? The pineapple juice sweetens the cream layer just enough to balance the tangy Jell-O—no cloying aftertaste.

Tip: For a retro touch, layer in mini marshmallows or maraschino cherries with the whipped cream.

Sparkling Orange Jello Champagne Cups

These elegant, bubbly treats are like edible champagne flutes—perfect for brunch or celebrations where you want a little sparkle without the alcohol.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh orange juice (no pulp)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 packets (0.25 oz each) unflavored gelatin
• 1 cup chilled champagne or sparkling wine
• Fresh raspberries or mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, whisk together orange juice, sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat until sugar dissolves (about 3 minutes). Remove from heat.
2. Sprinkle gelatin over the warm juice mixture and whisk continuously for 1 minute until fully dissolved. Let cool to room temperature (about 15 minutes).
3. Gently stir in champagne until just combined—avoid overmixing to preserve bubbles. Pour into 6 small glasses or champagne flutes.
4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until fully set. Garnish with raspberries or mint before serving.

The magic here? The gelatin sets just enough to hold its shape but still melts luxuriously on your tongue, with a bright citrus pop and effervescent finish.

Tip: For cleaner edges, lightly coat glasses with cooking spray before pouring—the jello will release easily when tipped out onto plates.

Orange Jello Cheesecake Bites

These Orange Jello Cheesecake Bites are the perfect sunny little treat—creamy, citrusy, and just the right size for popping in your mouth!

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 3 tbsp melted butter
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks
• 1 (3 oz) package orange Jello
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1/2 cup cold water

1. Prep the crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press firmly into a lined 8×8-inch pan and chill for 10 minutes.
2. Make the filling: Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Gently fold in whipped cream, then spread over the crust. Freeze for 30 minutes.
3. Add the Jello layer: Dissolve orange Jello in boiling water, then stir in cold water. Let cool slightly (about 10 minutes), then pour over the cheesecake layer. Chill for 2 hours or until set.
4. Slice and serve: Cut into 1-inch squares and enjoy chilled!

The magic here? The Jello layer stays perfectly jiggly while the cheesecake stays creamy—no sinking or mixing!

Tip: For extra zing, add a teaspoon of orange zest to the cream cheese filling.

Orange Jello and Coconut Layered Dessert

This dreamy Orange Jello and Coconut Layered Dessert is a retro-inspired treat with a sunny citrus twist and creamy coconut topping—perfect for potlucks or a light finish to dinner.

• 1 (3 oz) box orange Jell-O
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 (13.5 oz) can coconut milk (full-fat, chilled overnight)
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes (for garnish)

1. In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the orange Jell-O and 1 cup boiling water until fully dissolved. Stir in 1 cup cold water, then pour into an 8×8-inch dish. Refrigerate for 2 hours or until firmly set.
2. Open the chilled can of coconut milk (do not shake) and scoop the thick cream from the top into a mixing bowl (discard or reserve the watery liquid for smoothies). Add 2 tbsp powdered sugar and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, then whip with a hand mixer until fluffy, about 2 minutes.
3. Spread the coconut cream evenly over the set Jell-O layer. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes and chill for 1 more hour before slicing.

The magic here? The contrast between the zesty, jiggly orange layer and the lush coconut topping—it’s like a creamsicle in dessert form!

Tip: For clean slices, dip your knife in warm water before cutting each piece.

Orange Jello with Mandarin Oranges and Whipped Cream

This sunny, citrusy dessert is a nostalgic crowd-pleaser—light, refreshing, and ready in minutes with just a few pantry staples.

Ingredients:

• 1 (3 oz) box orange-flavored Jell-O
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 (15 oz) can mandarin oranges in juice, drained
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the orange Jell-O and 1 cup boiling water until completely dissolved, about 2 minutes. Stir in 1 cup cold water.
2. Gently fold in the drained mandarin oranges, then pour the mixture into a 9×9-inch dish or individual serving cups. Refrigerate until set, about 4 hours (or overnight).
3. Just before serving, make the whipped cream: In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with a hand mixer until soft peaks form, about 3 minutes.
4. Slice the Jell-O into squares (if using a dish) and top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream.

The juicy mandarins add a burst of freshness against the creamy topping, making this feel like a retro dessert with a bright upgrade.

Tip: For a fluffier texture, swap the heavy cream with thawed frozen whipped topping—just fold it straight from the tub!

Orange Jello and Berry Compote Trifle

This Orange Jello and Berry Compote Trifle is a bright, fruity dessert that layers creamy sweetness with tangy berries—perfect for potlucks or a refreshing summer treat!

• 1 (3 oz) box orange-flavored gelatin
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 2 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
• 1 cup vanilla wafer cookies, lightly crushed

1. In a large bowl, dissolve the orange gelatin in 1 cup boiling water, stirring for 2 minutes until fully dissolved. Stir in 1 cup cold water, then refrigerate for 2 hours or until set but still slightly soft.
2. Meanwhile, combine the mixed berries, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1 tbsp lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries soften and release juices. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
3. In a trifle dish or clear bowl, layer half the set gelatin, followed by half the berry compote, 1 cup whipped topping, and half the crushed vanilla wafers. Repeat the layers once more.
4. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.

The contrast between the zesty orange gelatin and jammy berries makes every spoonful pop, while the vanilla wafers add just the right crunch.

Tip: For a boozy twist, swap 1/4 cup of the cold water with orange liqueur when preparing the gelatin.

Orange Jello and Vanilla Yogurt Swirl

This dreamy, citrusy dessert is like sunshine in a bowl—swirls of tangy yogurt and vibrant orange jello make it as fun to look at as it is to eat.

Ingredients:

• 1 (3 oz) box orange-flavored gelatin
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 cup vanilla yogurt (whole-milk or Greek for creaminess)
• 1 tbsp honey

Instructions:

1. In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the orange gelatin and 1 cup boiling water until fully dissolved, about 2 minutes. Stir in 1 cup cold water.
2. Pour the gelatin mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish and refrigerate for 1 hour, or until slightly thickened but not fully set (it should wobble like pudding).
3. In a separate bowl, mix the vanilla yogurt and 1 tbsp honey until smooth. Drop spoonfuls of the yogurt mixture over the partially set gelatin.
4. Use a butter knife to gently swirl the yogurt into the gelatin, creating marbled patterns. Return to the fridge for 2–3 hours, or until fully firm.
5. Slice into squares or scoop into bowls to serve.

The magic here? The yogurt stays luxuriously creamy against the jello’s jiggle—a playful contrast in every bite.

Tip: For a grown-up twist, swap the cold water with chilled prosecco or orange juice.

Orange Jello and Mango Tropical Delight

Orange Jello and Mango Tropical Delight

This sunny, layered dessert is like a mini vacation in a bowl—bursting with citrusy sweetness and juicy mango flavor!

Ingredients:

• 1 (3 oz) package orange-flavored gelatin
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 cup diced fresh mango (about 1 medium mango)
• 1/2 cup canned coconut milk (well stirred)
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, dissolve the orange gelatin in 1 cup boiling water, stirring for 2 minutes until fully dissolved. Stir in 1 cup cold water.
2. Pour half the gelatin mixture into a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Refrigerate for 30 minutes until slightly set (it should be sticky but not firm).
3. Meanwhile, blend the mango, 1/2 cup coconut milk, 1 tbsp honey, and 1/4 tsp vanilla extract in a food processor until smooth.
4. Gently spoon the mango mixture over the chilled gelatin layer, spreading evenly. Top with the remaining gelatin mixture.
5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until fully set. Slice into squares or scoop into bowls.

The magic here? The creamy mango layer sandwiched between two bright orange jelly layers—each spoonful is pure tropical bliss.

Tip: For extra flair, garnish with toasted coconut flakes or a lime zest sprinkle before serving.

Orange Jello and Cream Cheese Fluff

This dreamy, retro-inspired dessert combines tangy cream cheese with sweet orange jello for a fluffy, cloud-like treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

Ingredients:

• 1 (3 oz) box orange Jell-O
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 (8 oz) tub frozen whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
• 1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges, drained (optional garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, dissolve the orange Jell-O in 1 cup boiling water, stirring for 2 minutes until fully dissolved. Stir in 1 cup cold water, then refrigerate for 1 hour or until slightly thickened (like runny syrup).
2. Meanwhile, beat the cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar with a hand mixer until smooth. Fold in the thawed whipped topping until just combined.
3. Gently whisk the partially set Jell-O until frothy, then fold it into the cream cheese mixture in two additions until no streaks remain.
4. Pour into a serving dish and chill for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until firm. Top with mandarin oranges just before serving, if using.

The magic here? The Jell-O stays suspended in the creamy mixture, creating a light-as-air texture with bursts of citrusy sweetness.

Tip: For a fun twist, layer the fluff with crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers in a trifle dish!

Orange Jello and Lime Zest Gelatin Squares

These Orange Jello and Lime Zest Gelatin Squares are a zesty, refreshing treat—perfect for potlucks or a sunny afternoon snack!

• 1 (3 oz) package orange-flavored gelatin
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 tbsp finely grated lime zest
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
• Cooking spray (for greasing)

1. Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the orange gelatin and 1 cup boiling water until fully dissolved, about 2 minutes.
3. Stir in 1 cup cold water, then add the 1 tbsp lime zest and 1 tbsp lime juice. Mix well.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
5. Cut into squares and serve chilled.

The bright citrus duo and delicate gelatin texture make these squares a standout—no one will guess how simple they are to make!

Tip: For cleaner cuts, dip a sharp knife in warm water before slicing the gelatin.

Orange Jello and Ginger Ale Float

This playful float combines the citrusy zing of orange Jell-O with fizzy ginger ale for a nostalgic, bubbly treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Ingredients:

• 1 (3 oz) package orange Jell-O
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 cup chilled ginger ale
• 1/2 cup vanilla ice cream
• Whipped cream (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

1. In a heatproof bowl, dissolve the orange Jell-O in 1 cup boiling water, stirring for 2 minutes until fully dissolved.
2. Stir in 1 cup cold water, then refrigerate for 2 hours or until just slightly thickened (it should be syrupy but not fully set).
3. Gently fold in 1 cup chilled ginger ale until evenly combined—the mixture will foam slightly.
4. Divide the Jell-O mixture between two tall glasses, then top each with 1/4 cup vanilla ice cream. Add a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

The magic here? The ginger ale keeps the Jell-O light and airy, while the ice cream melts into a creamy swirl—no spoon required!

Tip: For extra citrus punch, swap the cold water with orange juice.

Orange Jello and Pomegranate Seed Salad

This vibrant, fruity salad is a refreshing mix of citrusy jello and juicy pomegranate seeds—perfect for brightening up any potluck or holiday spread.

Ingredients:

• 2 (3 oz) packages orange jello mix
• 2 cups boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/2 cup mini marshmallows (optional, for extra sweetness)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, dissolve the 2 (3 oz) packages of orange jello mix in 2 cups of boiling water, stirring until fully combined.
2. Stir in 1 cup of cold water, then refrigerate the mixture for 1 hour, or until slightly thickened but not fully set.
3. Gently fold in 1 cup of pomegranate seeds, 1/2 cup of mini marshmallows (if using), and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh mint leaves.
4. Pour into a serving dish or individual cups and chill for another 2 hours, or until firm.

The contrast of the tangy jello with the crunch of pomegranate seeds makes every bite a fun little surprise!

Tip: For a quicker set, pour the mixture into a shallow pan—it’ll chill in half the time.

Orange Jello and Almond Milk Panna Cotta

This dreamy, dairy-free panna cotta gets its sunny citrus flavor from orange Jello and a silky texture from almond milk—perfect for a light yet impressive dessert.

Ingredients:

• 1 (3 oz) package orange Jello
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold almond milk (unsweetened)
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 tsp unflavored gelatin
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a heatproof bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the almond milk and let sit for 5 minutes to bloom.
2. Meanwhile, dissolve the orange Jello in boiling water, stirring until fully combined (about 2 minutes). Set aside.
3. Gently warm the almond milk-gelatin mixture in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring until the gelatin dissolves (3–4 minutes; do not boil). Remove from heat.
4. Whisk in the honey, vanilla, and salt until smooth, then stir in the prepared orange Jello.
5. Divide the mixture among four 6-oz ramekins. Chill for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.

The magic here? The Jello gives the panna cotta a vibrant color and fruity zing without any artificial aftertaste—just pure orange creaminess.

Tip: For clean unmolding, dip ramekins in warm water for 10 seconds before inverting onto plates.

Orange Jello and Honey Glazed Fruit Cups

These vibrant fruit cups are a sunny twist on dessert—silky orange jello cradles juicy fruit with a glossy honey glaze for a treat that feels fancy but comes together in minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 (3 oz) package orange-flavored gelatin
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 2 cups mixed fresh fruit (such as berries, diced mango, or grapes)
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the orange gelatin and 1 cup boiling water until fully dissolved. Stir in 1 cup cold water.
2. Divide the gelatin mixture evenly among 4 small cups or ramekins. Chill for 2 hours, or until set.
3. Meanwhile, toss the mixed fruit with 2 tbsp honey and 1 tsp lemon juice in a bowl. Let sit for 10 minutes to macerate.
4. Top each set gelatin cup with a generous spoonful of the honey-glazed fruit. Serve immediately.

The honey’s floral sweetness balances the citrusy jello, while the macerated fruit adds a refreshing contrast—perfect for when you want a light yet satisfying finale.

Tip: For a fun twist, swap the orange gelatin for lime or strawberry and pair with complementary fruits like kiwi or pineapple.

Orange Jello and Chocolate Drizzle Parfait

This vibrant, layered dessert is a playful mix of citrusy jello and rich chocolate—perfect for brightening up any gathering or just treating yourself!

Ingredients:

• 1 (3 oz) box orange-flavored gelatin
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
• 1/4 cup chocolate syrup
• 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers (optional for crunch)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, dissolve the orange gelatin in 1 cup boiling water, stirring for 2 minutes until fully combined. Stir in 1 cup cold water, then refrigerate for 2 hours or until set (it should wiggle slightly but hold shape).
2. Once set, use a fork to lightly break the jello into bite-sized chunks.
3. In parfait glasses or bowls, layer half the jello, then dollop with 1/2 cup whipped topping. Repeat with remaining jello and topping.
4. Drizzle 1/4 cup chocolate syrup over each parfait and sprinkle with crushed graham crackers (if using).

The magic here? The jello’s tangy pop against the creamy topping and silky chocolate—it’s like sunshine and dessert had a party!

Tip: For a fun twist, swap the chocolate syrup for melted dark chocolate cooled slightly—it’ll harden into delicate shards on contact with the cold layers.

Orange Jello and Caramelized Banana Dessert

This playful dessert combines the bright citrusy jiggle of orange Jell-O with the deep, buttery sweetness of caramelized bananas—a nostalgic treat with a grown-up twist.

• 1 (3 oz) box orange Jell-O
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 2 ripe bananas, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Whipped cream (optional, for serving)

1. In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the orange Jell-O and 1 cup boiling water until fully dissolved. Stir in 1 cup cold water, then pour into four serving glasses. Refrigerate for 3 hours or until set.
2. When ready to serve, melt 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1/4 tsp vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, stirring until bubbly (about 1 minute). Add the banana slices and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until caramelized.
3. Top each Jell-O glass with warm bananas and a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

The contrast between cool, wobbly Jell-O and sticky-sweet bananas makes this dessert irresistibly fun—like a retro diner sundae reimagined.

Tip: For extra flair, sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers over the whipped cream for crunch.

Orange Jello and Mint Infused Gelatin Cubes

These refreshing Orange Jello and Mint Infused Gelatin Cubes are a playful twist on classic jello—bright, citrusy, and herbaceous with a cooling finish.

• 1 (3 oz) box orange-flavored gelatin
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, tightly packed
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar

1. In a heatproof bowl, combine the orange gelatin and 1 cup boiling water. Whisk for 2 minutes until fully dissolved.
2. In a separate small saucepan, bring 1 cup cold water, 1/4 cup mint leaves, and 1 tbsp sugar to a simmer over medium heat. Remove from heat, cover, and steep for 10 minutes. Strain out mint leaves.
3. Stir the mint-infused water into the gelatin mixture. Pour into an 8×8-inch baking dish and refrigerate for 4 hours or until firmly set.
4. Cut into 1-inch cubes and serve chilled.

The mint subtly brightens the sweet orange flavor, while the jelly-like cubes melt delightfully on the tongue—perfect for topping desserts or floating in sparkling water.

Tip: For extra flair, rub the mint leaves between your hands before steeping to release more aroma.

Conclusion

With 19 bright and zesty orange Jell-O recipes, there’s something here for every summer gathering! Whether you’re craving a classic mold or a fun twist, these treats are sure to delight. Try one (or a few!) and let us know your favorite in the comments. Loved this roundup? Share the sweetness—pin this article to your Pinterest boards for easy inspiration later. Happy jiggling!