Jello Lemon Meringue Recipe That’s Easy and Delicious

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on the classic lemon meringue pie, our Jello Lemon Meringue Recipe is your new go-to dessert. This refreshing treat combines the zing of lemon-flavored gelatin with a fluffy, golden meringue topping that’s light as air.

It’s perfect for warm weather gatherings, potlucks, or whenever you crave something sweet yet tangy. Unlike traditional pies, this recipe is easier to prepare and requires no baking of a crust, making it a convenient and impressive dessert option.

With its vibrant layers and smooth texture, this jello lemon meringue dessert will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also brighten your table. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie in the kitchen, this recipe guides you through each step to achieve perfect results every time.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to wow your guests with a nostalgic flavor presented in a fun, modern format.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a unique blend of flavors and textures that makes it a standout dessert. The lemon jello provides a tangy, refreshing base that contrasts beautifully with the sweet, airy meringue topping.

It’s light, easy to make, and doesn’t require any complicated pastry work or oven time.

Ideal for summer parties or holiday dinners, it’s a crowd-pleaser that looks as good as it tastes. You can prepare the jello layer ahead of time, making your dessert prep stress-free.

The meringue topping adds a homemade touch and an impressive finish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Plus, it’s a fun recipe to customize with different citrus flavors or add fresh fruit for extra zest. If you enjoy classic desserts with a fresh twist, this jello lemon meringue will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

• 1 package (3 oz) lemon-flavored gelatin (Jello)
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 3 large egg whites (room temperature)
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of one lemon (optional, for extra lemon flavor)
• Butter or cooking spray (for greasing serving dishes)

Equipment

• Mixing bowls (one large for gelatin, one for meringue)
• Electric mixer or stand mixer (for whipping egg whites)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Heatproof bowl or saucepan (for dissolving gelatin)
• Serving bowls or individual dessert cups
• Rubber spatula
• Refrigerator (for chilling gelatin)

Instructions

1. Dissolve the lemon gelatin: Pour the lemon gelatin powder into a heatproof bowl. Add 1 cup of boiling water and whisk until completely dissolved.
2. Add cold water: Stir in 1 cup of cold water to the dissolved gelatin mixture. Mix well.
3. Chill the gelatin: Pour the gelatin mixture into your greased serving dish or individual cups. Refrigerate for about 45 minutes or until the gelatin is partially set but still slightly tacky.
4. Prepare the meringue: While the gelatin chills, place the 3 egg whites in a clean, dry mixing bowl. Add the cream of tartar.
5. Whip the egg whites: Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar, about a tablespoon at a time, while increasing the speed to high.
6. Beat to stiff peaks: Continue whipping until the meringue is glossy and forms stiff peaks. This means when you lift the beaters, the peaks stand straight up without drooping.
7. Add flavor: Gently fold in the vanilla extract and lemon zest if using, being careful not to deflate the meringue.
8. Top the gelatin: Remove the partially set gelatin from the refrigerator. Spoon or pipe the meringue evenly over the jello layer, making sure to seal the edges to prevent shrinking.
9. Brown the meringue: For a golden finish, use a kitchen torch to carefully brown the meringue peaks. If you don’t have a torch, place the dessert under a preheated broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
10. Chill before serving: Return the dessert to the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour to allow the layers to set fully and flavors to meld.
11. Serve and enjoy: Slice the jello lemon meringue into portions or serve cups individually. Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

Always use clean, grease-free bowls and beaters when whipping egg whites to achieve perfect meringue.

Use fresh lemon juice or zest to intensify the citrus flavor in your gelatin layer. You can also substitute the lemon jello with lime or orange flavors for a citrus variety.

If you want to add a fruity twist, layer fresh berries or sliced fruits between the gelatin and meringue. Adding a little coconut extract to the meringue can also give a tropical nuance.

For a vegan alternative, try using aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) whipped with cream of tartar instead of egg whites. This will create a similar fluffy topping, though it won’t brown as easily.

To make individual servings, simply divide the gelatin and meringue into small glasses or ramekins. This is perfect for parties or easy portion control.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This jello lemon meringue dessert pairs beautifully with a cup of hot tea or freshly brewed coffee for a light afternoon treat. For a more decadent experience, serve it alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

For festive occasions, garnish with edible flowers or thin lemon slices to enhance the presentation. You can also serve it chilled with a side of fresh fruit salad for a refreshing summer dessert combo.

If you enjoy this recipe, you might also love our other refreshing dishes like A Cold Vegetable Soup Recipe to Refresh Your Summer Meals or our Berry Cobbler Recipe Vegan: Easy, Delicious, and Healthy.

Conclusion

The jello lemon meringue recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic dessert with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Its bright lemon taste combined with the fluffy meringue topping creates a delightful contrast that’s both satisfying and refreshing.

This recipe is perfect for anyone who wants a quick and easy dessert that still impresses.

Whether it’s for a family gathering, a potluck, or a simple weekend treat, this dessert offers a playful and delicious way to enjoy lemon meringue without the hassle of making a pie crust. With tips for customization and variations, you can adapt it to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

Try this recipe today and discover how simple it is to craft a memorable, crowd-pleasing dessert. And when you’re ready to explore more delightful recipes, be sure to check out our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious for savory inspiration or dive into Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping for hearty outdoor meals.

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