18 Refreshing Lemon Jello Recipes Perfect for Summer

When summer heat hits, nothing beats the bright, zesty kick of lemon Jello—cool, refreshing, and oh-so-easy to whip up! Whether you’re craving a light dessert, a fruity snack, or a show-stopping potluck dish, these 18 vibrant recipes are your ticket to sweet (and tangy) relief. Get ready to chill out with flavors that scream sunshine—let’s dive in!

Lemon Jello with Fresh Berries

Bright, zesty, and bursting with juicy berries, this jiggly dessert is a nostalgic crowd-pleaser that comes together in minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 (3 oz) box lemon-flavored gelatin
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 cup mixed fresh berries (like raspberries, blueberries, and sliced strawberries)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon zest (optional, for extra tang)

Instructions:

1. In a large heatproof bowl, whisk together the lemon gelatin and 1 cup boiling water until completely dissolved, about 2 minutes.
2. Stir in 1 cup cold water and 1 tbsp lemon zest (if using), then refrigerate for 30 minutes until slightly thickened (it should coat the back of a spoon).
3. Gently fold in 1 cup mixed berries, then pour the mixture into a 9×9-inch dish or individual serving cups.
4. Chill for at least 3 hours, or until fully set (the edges should pull away slightly when nudged).

The magic here? The berries stay suspended mid-jiggle for a gorgeous layered look—no fancy techniques required!

Tip: For quicker chilling, spread the mixture in a shallow pan (like a pie dish) to reduce the setting time by half.

Lemon Jello Cheesecake Delight

This dreamy no-bake dessert combines the bright tang of lemon with creamy cheesecake for a refreshing treat that’s as easy as it is impressive.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 (3 oz) package lemon Jell-O
• 1 cup boiling water
• ½ cup cold water
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping, thawed

Instructions:

1. Make the crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a bowl. Press firmly into a 9×9-inch pan. Chill for 15 minutes.
2. Prepare Jell-O: Dissolve lemon Jell-O in boiling water, then stir in cold water. Let cool slightly (about 10 minutes) but don’t let it set.
3. Whip the filling: Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in whipped topping until combined.
4. Layer & set: Spread cream cheese mixture over the crust. Gently pour cooled Jell-O on top. Refrigerate for 4 hours or until fully set.

The magic here? The Jell-O layer stays vibrantly jiggly atop the lush cheesecake base—perfect for slicing into sunny squares.

Tip: For extra zing, add 1 tsp lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture!

Lemon Jello and Whipped Cream Parfait

Bright, tangy lemon jello meets pillowy whipped cream in this dreamy layered dessert—perfect for when you crave something light yet indulgent.

Ingredients:

• 1 (3 oz) box lemon jello mix
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Fresh mint leaves (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon jello mix and 1 cup boiling water until fully dissolved. Stir in 1 cup cold water, then refrigerate for 2–3 hours until set (it should wiggle slightly but hold shape).
2. Once jello is set, make the whipped cream: In a chilled bowl, beat 1 cup heavy cream, 2 tbsp powdered sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla extract with a hand mixer until stiff peaks form.
3. Layer the dessert: Spoon alternating layers of lemon jello and whipped cream into glasses, ending with whipped cream on top. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
4. Chill for 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.

The magic here? The jello’s zesty punch cuts through the creamy sweetness, making each spoonful refreshingly balanced.

Tip: For clean layers, let the jello fully set before assembling. If you’re short on time, pop it in the freezer for 45 minutes (don’t let it freeze!).

Lemon Jello with Citrus Zest

Bright, zesty, and refreshing—this lemon Jello with citrus zest is like sunshine in a bowl, perfect for picnics or a light dessert after a big meal.

• 2 (3 oz) packages lemon Jello
• 2 cups boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon zest
• 1 tbsp fresh orange zest
• 1 tbsp fresh lime zest

1. In a large heatproof bowl, combine the lemon Jello and boiling water. Whisk for 2 minutes until fully dissolved.
2. Stir in the cold water, then add the lemon zest, orange zest, and lime zest. Mix well.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×9-inch dish or individual serving cups. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.

The triple-citrus zest gives this Jello a vibrant, grown-up twist—no artificial flavorings needed!

Tip: For extra elegance, top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of zest before serving.

Lemon Jello and Pineapple Salad

This retro-inspired salad is a sunny blend of tangy citrus and juicy pineapple—perfect for potlucks or a light, refreshing side dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 (3 oz) package lemon Jell-O
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, undrained
• 1/2 cup mini marshmallows (optional, for extra sweetness)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, dissolve the lemon Jell-O in boiling water, stirring for 2 minutes until fully dissolved.
2. Stir in cold water, then add the crushed pineapple with its juice. Mix gently.
3. Fold in mini marshmallows (if using) until evenly distributed.
4. Pour into a serving dish or mold and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.

The pineapple’s natural acidity keeps this salad bright and just-sweet-enough, while the marshmallows add a playful, fluffy contrast. Serve chilled for the best texture!

Tip: For a creamier version, stir in 1/2 cup whipped topping just before chilling.

Lemon Jello Layered with Vanilla Pudding

This sunny Lemon Jello and Vanilla Pudding layered dessert is a nostalgic crowd-pleaser—creamy, citrusy, and impossibly easy to throw together for potlucks or weeknight treats.

• 1 (3 oz) box lemon Jell-O
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups cold whole milk
• 1 cup thawed whipped topping (like Cool Whip), plus extra for garnish
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for garnish)

1. Make the Jell-O layer: In a heatproof bowl, whisk the lemon Jell-O with 1 cup boiling water until fully dissolved, about 2 minutes. Stir in 1 cup cold water. Pour into an 8×8″ glass dish and refrigerate until set (about 4 hours).
2. Prepare the pudding: In another bowl, whisk the vanilla pudding mix with 2 cups cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened. Fold in 1 cup whipped topping until smooth.
3. Layer & chill: Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the set Jell-O. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
4. Serve: Cut into squares and garnish with extra whipped topping and lemon zest if desired.

The magic here? The contrast between the bright, jiggly lemon layer and the cloud-like vanilla pudding—each bite is pure retro bliss.

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

Lemon Jello with Mango Cubes

Bright, sunny, and just the right amount of sweet—this wobbly dessert is like a little burst of sunshine in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 (3 oz) box lemon-flavored gelatin (like Jell-O)
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 cup fresh mango, diced into ½-inch cubes
• ½ cup heavy cream, chilled (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

1. Dissolve the gelatin: In a heatproof bowl, pour the boiling water over the lemon gelatin powder. Whisk for 2 minutes until fully dissolved.
2. Chill the mixture: Stir in the cold water, then refrigerate for 45 minutes until slightly thickened (it should coat the back of a spoon).
3. Add the mango: Gently fold in the mango cubes, then pour the mixture into a 4-cup mold or individual serving glasses. Chill for at least 3 hours, or until fully set.
4. Serve: Run a knife around the edges to loosen, then dip the mold briefly in warm water and invert onto a plate. Or, simply scoop from glasses. Drizzle with chilled heavy cream if desired.

The juicy mango cubes suspended in tangy lemon jello make every spoonful a fun contrast of textures—creamy, fruity, and refreshingly light.

Tip: For extra flair, swap half the cold water with coconut water to add a subtle tropical twist.

Lemon Jello and Coconut Cream Pie

This dreamy pie combines zesty lemon jello with creamy coconut for a refreshing twist on a classic dessert—no baking required!

Ingredients:

• 1 (9-inch) graham cracker pie crust
• 1 (3 oz) box lemon jello
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, dissolve the lemon jello in 1 cup boiling water, stirring for 2 minutes until fully dissolved. Stir in 1 cup cold water, then refrigerate for 30 minutes until slightly thickened (like egg whites).
2. Fold in half of the whipped topping (about 4 oz) until smooth. Pour into the graham cracker crust and chill for 2 hours until set.
3. Meanwhile, toast 1 cup shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until golden. Let cool.
4. In a bowl, mix the remaining whipped topping with 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 1 tsp vanilla. Spread over the chilled pie and sprinkle with toasted coconut. Refrigerate 1 more hour before serving.

The magic here? The lemon jello layer stays light and fluffy, while the toasted coconut adds a nutty crunch to every creamy bite.

Tip: For extra tang, swap the lemon jello for lime and add a teaspoon of zest to the whipped topping.

Lemon Jello with Kiwi Slices

Ingredients:

• 1 (3 oz) box lemon-flavored Jell-O
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 2 medium kiwis, peeled and thinly sliced

Instructions:

1. In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the lemon Jell-O and 1 cup boiling water until fully dissolved, about 2 minutes.
2. Stir in 1 cup cold water, then let the mixture cool at room temperature for 10 minutes (it should still be liquid but no longer steaming).
3. Arrange the kiwi slices in a single layer along the bottom of a 9×5-inch loaf pan or decorative mold.
4. Gently pour the Jell-O mixture over the kiwis, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until completely set.
5. To serve, dip the mold briefly in warm water, then invert onto a plate. Slice or scoop with a spoon.

The kiwi slices turn into little edible stained-glass windows, making each bite as pretty as it is refreshing!

Tip: For extra tang, swap the cold water with chilled lemon-lime soda.

Lemon Jello and Yogurt Swirl

This dreamy, citrusy dessert is like sunshine in a bowl—light, tangy, and just sweet enough to feel like a treat without weighing you down.

Ingredients:

• 1 (3 oz) package lemon Jell-O
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, dissolve the lemon Jell-O in 1 cup boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved (about 2 minutes). Stir in 1 cup cold water.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp honey, and 1 tsp vanilla until smooth.
3. Pour half the Jell-O mixture into a 9×9-inch dish and refrigerate for 20 minutes until slightly set (it should still be sticky to the touch).
4. Dollop spoonfuls of the yogurt mixture over the semi-set Jell-O, then gently swirl with a knife. Pour the remaining Jell-O on top.
5. Chill for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until fully set. Slice into squares or scoop into bowls.

The magic here? The yogurt swirl stays creamy against the bright, jiggly Jell-O, creating a playful contrast in every bite.

Tip: For a fun twist, swap the lemon Jell-O for lime or orange—it’ll taste like a creamsicle!

Lemon Jello with Fresh Mint Leaves

Bright, refreshing, and just the right amount of sweet, this lemon jello is a breeze to whip up—and the fresh mint adds a cool, herbaceous twist.

Ingredients:

• 2 (3 oz) packages lemon-flavored gelatin
• 2 cups boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar

Instructions:

1. In a large heatproof bowl, combine the lemon gelatin and boiling water. Whisk for 2 minutes until fully dissolved.
2. Stir in the cold water, then add the chopped mint leaves and sugar. Mix well.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×9-inch dish or individual serving cups. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
4. To serve, cut into squares (if using a dish) and garnish with extra mint leaves.

The zesty lemon and crisp mint make this jello taste like a sunny afternoon in every bite—perfect for picnics or a light dessert after a big meal.

Tip: For a fun twist, layer the jello with whipped cream or serve with fresh berries.

Lemon Jello and Strawberry Compote

Ingredients:

• 1 (3 oz) box lemon Jello mix
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Make the Jello: In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon Jello mix and 1 cup boiling water until fully dissolved. Stir in 1 cup cold water. Pour into a 9×9-inch dish and refrigerate for 2 hours until set.
2. Prepare the compote: While the Jello chills, combine strawberries, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1 tbsp lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 8–10 minutes, mashing lightly with a spoon, until syrupy. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 tsp vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Layer & serve: Spoon the strawberry compote over the set Jello. Chill for another 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Scoop into bowls or slice into squares.

The contrast between the jiggly citrus Jello and jammy berries is pure nostalgia—perfect for picnics or a light finish to brunch. Tip: For extra flair, top with whipped cream and lemon zest!

Lemon Jello with Blueberry Topping

This sunny, citrusy jello is the perfect light dessert—bright lemon pairs with a juicy blueberry topping for a refreshing bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 (3 oz) box lemon-flavored gelatin
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 cup fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed)
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. In a heatproof bowl, dissolve the lemon gelatin in boiling water, stirring for 2 minutes until fully dissolved. Stir in cold water.
2. Pour the mixture into 4 individual serving glasses or a 9×9-inch dish. Refrigerate for 3–4 hours, or until fully set.
3. While the jello chills, combine blueberries, sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries soften and release their juices. Let cool to room temperature.
4. Spoon the blueberry topping over the set jello just before serving.

The contrast between the tangy lemon jello and the sweet-tart blueberries makes this dessert feel effortlessly elegant—ideal for brunch or a warm-weather treat.

Tip: For a fun twist, layer the jello and blueberries in parfait glasses for a striped effect!

Lemon Jello and Almond Crunch

This bright, zesty dessert is a nostalgic crowd-pleaser—creamy lemon jello meets buttery almond crunch for a texture contrast you’ll love.

Ingredients:

• 1 (3 oz) box lemon jello
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 1/2 cup heavy cream, chilled
• 1 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Make the jello: Dissolve the lemon jello in boiling water, stirring 1 minute. Stir in cold water, then pour into a 9×9-inch dish. Chill 4 hours or until firm.
2. Toast the almonds: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add almonds, granulated sugar, and salt. Cook 3–4 minutes, stirring, until golden. Spread on parchment to cool.
3. Whip the cream: Beat heavy cream and powdered sugar to stiff peaks. Dollop over set jello, then sprinkle with the almond crunch.

The magic here? The almonds stay crisp against the jiggly jello—perfect for potlucks or a sunny afternoon treat.

Tip: For extra tang, swap the cold water with chilled lemonade.

Lemon Jello with Raspberry Coulis

This bright and tangy Lemon Jello with Raspberry Coulis is a refreshing dessert that’s as easy to make as it is pretty to serve!

• 1 (3 oz) package lemon-flavored gelatin
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp lemon juice

1. In a large bowl, dissolve the lemon gelatin in 1 cup boiling water, stirring until fully combined. Stir in 1 cup cold water.
2. Pour the mixture into four 6-oz ramekins or a single 4-cup mold. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
3. While the jello chills, make the coulis: In a small saucepan, combine the raspberries, 2 tbsp sugar, and 1 tsp lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, mashing the berries lightly, until the mixture thickens slightly. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds, then let cool.
4. To serve, dip the ramekins in warm water for 10 seconds, then invert onto plates (or slice the molded jello). Drizzle with the raspberry coulis.

The contrast between the zesty lemon jello and the sweet-tart coulis makes this dessert a showstopper—perfect for spring brunches or light summer dinners.

Tip: For a fun twist, layer the jello with whipped cream between sets for a parfait effect!

Lemon Jello and Lime Gelatin Mix

This sunny citrus duo is like a burst of sunshine in every jiggly bite—perfect for picnics or a retro-inspired dessert!

Ingredients

• 1 (3 oz) box lemon Jell-O
• 1 (3 oz) box lime gelatin
• 2 cups boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon zest

Instructions

1. In a large heatproof bowl, combine lemon Jell-O and lime gelatin. Pour in 2 cups boiling water and whisk 2 minutes until fully dissolved.
2. Stir in 1 cup cold water and 1 tbsp lemon zest until well blended.
3. Pour mixture into a 9×9-inch dish or decorative mold. Refrigerate 4 hours (or overnight) until firmly set.

The fresh zest adds tiny pops of brightness against the smooth gelatin—a nostalgic treat with a grown-up twist!

Tip: For layered stripes, chill the lemon layer first (2 hours), then gently pour lime mixture on top.

Lemon Jello with Pomegranate Seeds

Bright, tangy, and studded with juicy pomegranate seeds, this refreshing dessert is a breeze to whip up—perfect for potlucks or a light finish to dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 (3 oz) box lemon-flavored gelatin (like Jell-O)
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon zest

Instructions:

1. In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the lemon gelatin and 1 cup boiling water until fully dissolved, about 2 minutes.
2. Stir in 1 cup cold water, then refrigerate for 45 minutes or until the mixture is slightly thickened (like runny syrup).
3. Gently fold in 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds and 1 tbsp lemon zest until evenly distributed.
4. Pour into individual serving cups or a 4-cup mold and chill for 3–4 hours, or until fully set.
5. Top with extra pomegranate seeds before serving.

The zesty lemon and burst-in-your-mouth pomegranate seeds make this jello feel fancy, even though it comes together with just five minutes of hands-on time.

Tip: For quicker setting, use ice cubes to replace half the cold water—just measure the melted volume to ensure accuracy!

Lemon Jello and Cream Cheese Frosting Cake

This sunny, tangy-sweet cake is like a slice of summer—light, fluffy, and topped with a cloud of creamy frosting that balances the zesty jello perfectly.

Ingredients:

• 1 box (15.25 oz) lemon cake mix
• 1 box (3 oz) lemon jello mix
• 3/4 cup water
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, beat the lemon cake mix, lemon jello mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes, until smooth. Pour into the prepared pan.
3. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
4. For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy (about 3 minutes). Spread over the cooled cake.

The jello gives the cake an extra-moist crumb and a vibrant citrus punch, while the frosting adds just the right richness. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as pretty as it is tasty!

Tip: For a stronger lemon flavor, add 1 tbsp lemon zest to the batter or frosting.

Conclusion

With 18 bright and zesty lemon Jello recipes, this roundup is your ticket to cool, refreshing summer treats! Whether you’re craving a creamy dessert or a fruity delight, there’s something here for everyone. Don’t forget to try your favorites, leave a comment with your top pick, and share the love on Pinterest. Happy jiggling!