There’s something utterly magical about Jello Roll Ups. They take classic, wobbly jello and transform it into bright, playful spirals that are every bit as delicious as they look! Each bite balances the chewy sweetness of marshmallow with the zippy punch of fruit-flavored gelatin. Whip up a batch and watch them disappear—these bite-sized treats are always the life of any party, snack table, or after-school celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is stunningly simple and calls for just three pantry staples, but each plays a starring role! Don’t let the short list fool you—the combination of these ingredients is what gives Jello Roll Ups their stretchy, snackable charm and vibrant color.
- Mini Marshmallows: They melt into the jello, creating a creamy, dreamy texture and a subtle vanilla sweetness.
- Jello (3-ounce box, any color): Choose your favorite flavor; it sets the base for the bright color and bold fruitiness.
- Water: Used to dissolve the gelatin, just enough to activate the jello without making it too wobbly for rolling.
How to Make Jello Roll Ups
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Lightly spray an 8×8-inch pan with nonstick cooking spray, making sure to cover the bottom and sides. This step ensures your Jello Roll Ups come out smoothly and don’t stick when it’s time to peel and roll!
Step 2: Dissolve the Jello
Pour the jello powder into a medium mixing bowl and add the hot, boiling water. Whisk gently until most of the powder has dissolved—don’t worry if there are a few tiny bits left, they’ll dissolve in the next step.
Step 3: Add the Marshmallows
Toss all the mini marshmallows into the bowl. Microwave on high for 1 minute and 30 seconds—the marshmallows will puff up and start to melt into the jello, filling your kitchen with a magical scent!
Step 4: Whisk Until Silky Smooth
Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave (it’s hot!). Whisk vigorously until the last lumps of marshmallow disappear and the mixture looks glossy and uniform. This step is key to getting those dreamy, cloud-like swirls in every slice of your Jello Roll Ups.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Pour the mixture into your prepared pan and smooth it into an even layer. Slide it into the fridge for at least 2 hours, or until fully set. This gives everything time to firm up so your roll ups hold their shape.
Step 6: Peel and Roll
Once set, gently lift one corner of the jello sheet from the pan—it should come up easily! Carefully peel it off the bottom, take your time, and then roll it into a tight log, exactly like you would with cinnamon rolls.
Step 7: Chill Again
Pop the rolled log back into the pan and chill it for another 10 minutes. This quick rest helps the roll hold its shape perfectly for slicing.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Using a sharp knife, cut the log into ½-inch slices with a single, decisive motion (don’t saw back and forth). Arrange your gorgeous Jello Roll Ups on a serving plate and get ready to field compliments—they’re as irresistible as they look!
How to Serve Jello Roll Ups
Garnishes
Enhance your Jello Roll Ups with a sprinkle of rainbow sprinkles, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a scattering of mini chocolate chips for extra color and texture. Sometimes, just a pretty serving platter and some fresh mint leaves make these little spirals look extra special!
Side Dishes
Jello Roll Ups make a fun addition to a dessert buffet or snack tray. They pair perfectly with fresh fruit skewers, bowls of popcorn at a movie night, or a platter of buttery shortbread cookies for some balance in texture and flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, thread Jello Roll Ups onto popsicle sticks for a lollipop effect, or stack them in mini cupcake wrappers and arrange them in a pretty pattern. You can even mix and match different jello colors on the same platter to dazzle your guests!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any extra Jello Roll Ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay perfectly chewy and fresh for up to three days, and are just as addictive the day after you make them!
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended, as it can make the texture of the marshmallow layer a bit rubbery. For best results, enjoy your Jello Roll Ups within a few days of making them.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat Jello Roll Ups; they’re best served cold right from the fridge. If you need to revive the texture, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini?
Absolutely! Just chop regular marshmallows into small pieces before adding them to ensure they melt smoothly and mix evenly into the jello.
Which jello flavor works best for Jello Roll Ups?
Any fruity flavor works beautifully, but bright, bold colors like strawberry, raspberry, and lime create the most vibrant spirals. Feel free to experiment and combine flavors for a rainbow effect!
How do I keep the jello from sticking to the pan?
A thorough coating of nonstick cooking spray is key. If you want extra insurance, you can also line the pan with parchment paper and spray that for super easy removal.
Can Jello Roll Ups be made ahead for a party?
Yes! Prepare them the day before, slice, and store in an airtight container in the fridge. They’re perfect for make-ahead party planning and stay fresh for several days.
Are Jello Roll Ups gluten-free?
Most jello and marshmallow brands are gluten-free, but it’s always best to double-check the packaging to be certain, especially for guests with sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to brighten up your dessert game and surprise friends or family, you simply have to try making Jello Roll Ups. They’re fun to craft, beautiful to serve, and guaranteed to bring out smiles no matter the occasion. Go ahead and roll up a batch—there’s no such thing as having too many!
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Jello Roll Ups Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 11 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and colorful Jello Roll Ups are a fun treat that both kids and adults will love. These sweet and fruity snacks are perfect for parties or as a tasty dessert. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy!
Ingredients
Jello Roll Ups Ingredients:
- 1 ½ Cups Mini Marshmallows
- 1 3 ounce box of Jello (any color)
- ½ Cup Water
Instructions
- Spray Pan: Spray an 8×8 pan with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.
- Mix Jello: Place the jello powder in a medium mixing bowl and add the boiling water.
- Whisk: Whisk lightly until dissolved or close to it.
- Add Marshmallows: Add the marshmallows to the bowl and microwave on high for 1 minute and 30 seconds.
- Whisk Again: Remove and whisk again until there are no marshmallow lumps.
- Chill: Pour into the prepared pan and place in the fridge for 2 hours or until set.
- Roll: Remove by gently pulling up one corner and slowly peeling it out of the pan. Roll into a tight tube like you would cinnamon rolls. Place back in the pan and back in the fridge for about 10 minutes.
- Slice: Remove and slice into ½ inch pieces using a sharp knife. Do not saw back and forth, one cut, straight down.
- Serve: Serve and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 minute 30 seconds
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwave, Refrigerate
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
