This Summer Berry Jello Lasagna is a fun and colorful dessert that layers creamy goodness with refreshing fruit. It’s perfect for hot days and a hit at parties!
Each bite is like a mini vacation in your mouth! It’s so easy to make—just layer, chill, and serve. I love having this treat ready in the fridge for a sweet surprise! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Cake Mix: This is the base of your lasagna. If you wish to avoid box mixes, you can make a simple homemade cake using flour, sugar, baking powder, and eggs. I find boxed mixes super convenient when I’m short on time!
Cream Cheese: Soften the cream cheese to prevent lumps in your mixture. If you’re lactose intolerant, you can substitute with a vegan cream cheese or even softened silken tofu for a lighter option.
Whipped Topping: Cool Whip adds a light, fluffy texture. You can swap it with homemade whipped cream, though it’s nice that Cool Whip stays stable longer when refrigerating.
Jello Flavors: Strawberry and blue raspberry bring great color and flavor. Feel free to mix it up with other flavors like cherry or lemon depending on your preference or seasonal availability!
How Do You Ensure Perfect Jello Layers?
Getting those beautiful jello layers right is key! The trick is to let each layer set before adding the next. This helps create a stunning layered look.
- After mixing jello with boiling water, let it cool a bit before adding fresh fruit. This prevents the fruit from sinking.
- Ensure the cream cheese layer is completely set before pouring in the jello, or the layers might blend.
- Be patient—letting it chill as long as possible gives the best results!
How to Make Summer Berry Jello Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Jello Layers:
- 1 box (3 oz) strawberry jello
- 1 box (3 oz) blue raspberry jello
- 2 cups boiling water (1 cup for each jello)
- 2 cups sliced strawberries
- 1 cup blueberries
For Topping:
- 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip)
- Colored sprinkles
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Summer Berry Jello Lasagna will take about 30 minutes of preparation time and at least 3 hours in the refrigerator to chill and set. So, plan for a total of about 3.5 to 4 hours including cooling time. Perfect for a summer gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cake Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix well until everything is nicely blended together. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan and bake for 25-30 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool completely.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
In another mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until it’s nice and smooth. Then, gently fold in 1 cup of whipped topping and the vanilla extract until everything is blended well. Spread this delicious cream cheese mixture evenly over your cooled cake crust, making sure it covers the whole top.
3. Prepare the Jello Layers:
In a medium bowl, take the strawberry jello and mix it with 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until the jello is completely dissolved. Add the sliced strawberries into this mixture, then carefully pour it over the cream cheese layer. Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to let it set.
4. Blue Raspberry Jello Layer:
Now, follow the same steps to make the blue raspberry jello. Dissolve it in 1 cup of boiling water and stir. Once it’s ready, pour it over the already set strawberry layer. Again, place in the refrigerator until it sets, which will take about 1 hour.
5. Finish the Lasagna:
Once both jello layers have set firmly, it’s time to add a layer of whipped topping on the very top. Spread it evenly, and then sprinkle some colorful sprinkles over it for a fun touch!
6. Chill and Serve:
Finally, let your summer berry jello lasagna chill in the refrigerator for at least 2-4 hours, or even overnight for the best results. When you’re ready to serve, cut it into squares and enjoy this refreshing dessert on a hot summer day!
Can I Use a Different Cake Mix for the Crust?
Absolutely! You can substitute yellow cake mix with other flavors like white, vanilla, or even lemon for a twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor of the cake will slightly alter the overall taste of the dessert.
Can I Replace Cream Cheese with Greek Yogurt?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative! Use the same amount (8 oz) and mix it with the powdered sugar. The flavor will be a bit tangier, but it will still create a creamy layer.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to store them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. Just keep in mind that the jello might slightly lose its texture over time.
Can I Use Fresh Fruit Instead of Jello?
Yes! Instead of jello, you can layer fresh fruit puree or a fruit dip. Just remember that using fresh fruit can change the texture and may require a little more time to chill and set properly. Enjoy experimenting!
