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Colorful Jello Cookies displayed as a featured image showcase the vibrant and delightful treat.
Lady Maria

Colorful Jello Cookies

These Colorful Jello Cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with fruity flavor and vibrant color thanks to the addition of Jello. They're surprisingly simple to make and perfect for bringing joy to any occasion, from bake sales to family gatherings. This recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 oz box Jello gelatin
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: Sprinkles, sanding sugar, or powdered sugar for decoration

Equipment

  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
  • Large bowl
  • Stand mixer or hand mixer
  • whisk
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • Plastic wrap
  • Cookie scoop or tablespoons
  • wire rack

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
  2. In a large bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer), cream together the softened butter, vegetable shortening, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (3-5 minutes).
  3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, Jello powder, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
  6. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or even better, for an hour.
  7. Once the dough is chilled, scoop it out by rounded tablespoons (or use a cookie scoop for consistent sizes) and roll each portion into a ball. You can roll the balls in extra granulated sugar or sanding sugar for a sparkly finish, or leave them plain.
  8. Place the cookie dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
  9. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven. You want the cookies to be set but still soft.
  10. Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  11. Once the cookies are completely cool, you can decorate them with sprinkles, powdered sugar, or a simple glaze. Get creative and have fun!

Notes

For best results, ensure butter is properly softened but not melted. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent excessive spreading. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Experiment with different Jello flavors, add chocolate chips, nuts, citrus zest, or spices for variations.