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Classic Jello Mold Cake Recipe

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A nostalgic 70s dessert featuring a vibrant swirl of flavored gelatin folded into a moist yellow cake batter, creating a colorful and fun retro treat perfect for celebrations and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box yellow cake mix (about 15.25 oz / 432 g)
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil (120 ml)
  • 1 cup water (240 ml)
  • 1 package (3 oz / 85 g) flavored gelatin (strawberry or raspberry recommended)
  • 1 cup boiling water (240 ml)
  • 1/2 cup cold water (120 ml)
  • Optional toppings: whipped cream or cool whip
  • Optional garnish: fresh berries or mint leaves

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Jello: In a medium bowl, dissolve the flavored gelatin packet in 1 cup (240 ml) boiling water. Stir well until fully dissolved. Add 1/2 cup (120 ml) cold water and mix. Set aside to cool to room temperature, but don’t let it set (about 10–15 minutes).
  2. Mix the Cake Batter: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine yellow cake mix, 4 large eggs, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, and 1 cup water. Beat on medium speed with an electric mixer for 2 minutes or whisk thoroughly until smooth and lump-free.
  3. Fold Jello into Batter: Once gelatin mixture has cooled but remains liquid, gently fold it into the cake batter using a spatula. Do not overmix to maintain colorful swirls (about 2–3 minutes).
  4. Bake the Cake: Pour batter into greased 9×13-inch baking pan, spreading evenly. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and edges pull slightly away from the pan.
  5. Cool and Serve: Allow cake to cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack (about 1 hour) to let the jello set. Slice into squares or wedges and serve with whipped cream and fresh berries if desired.

Notes

Do not let the jello set before folding into the batter to maintain the swirl effect. Use room temperature eggs and liquids for smooth batter. Check cake doneness starting at 35 minutes due to added liquid from jello. Cool completely before slicing to allow gelatin to set fully. If jello sets too soon, gently warm it over a double boiler to liquefy again.

Nutrition

Keywords: Jello mold cake, retro dessert, 70s dessert, gelatin cake, easy cake recipe, colorful cake, potluck dessert

Find it online: https://bitematrix.com/classic-jello-mold-cake-recipe-5-easy-steps-for-retro-70s-dessert-delight/