Santa Hat Jello Treats: A Festive Party Delight!

Santa Hat Jello Treats —these adorable, festive treats are a fun and creative way to celebrate the holiday season! With a sweet strawberry base and a creamy topping that resembles Santa’s fluffy hat, they’re perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a fun activity with kids!

Ingredients:

For the Red Jello Layer:

2 (3 oz) packages of strawberry Jello (or red Jello of your choice)
2 cups (480ml) boiling water
1 cup (240ml) cold water
1/4 cup (60ml) sweetened condensed milk (for a creamy swirl, optional)

For the Whipped Cream Layer (Santa’s Hat):

1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup (40g) mini marshmallows (for the “fur” of the Santa hat)

For the Base:

Fresh strawberries, washed and hulled (one for each treat)
Optional: mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Make the Red Jello Layer:

In a medium bowl, dissolve the strawberry Jello in the boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved.
Add the cold water to the Jello mixture and stir to combine.
If you want a creamy swirl effect, add the sweetened condensed milk to the Jello mixture and stir gently. If you prefer a pure red layer, skip this step.
Pour the Jello mixture into small cups or molds, filling each about halfway.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the Jello is set.

2. Make the Whipped Cream Layer:

In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form.
Stir in the mini marshmallows gently to mimic the “fluffy” look of Santa’s hat.

3. Assemble the Santa Hat Jello Treats:

Once the red Jello layer is set, place a fresh strawberry upside down on top of the Jello in each cup (the pointed end should be facing down to resemble the body of Santa’s hat).
Spoon or pipe a generous amount of whipped cream on top of the strawberry, forming a Santa hat shape. Use the marshmallows to create a “fur” trim at the base of the whipped cream to give the hat its signature look.
Optionally, garnish with mint leaves or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra festive touch.

4. Serve and Enjoy:

Refrigerate the assembled treats for 30 minutes before serving, allowing the whipped cream to firm up a bit.
Serve chilled and enjoy these festive, fun Santa Hat Jello Treats!

Tips & Variations:

Flavor variation: You can use any flavor of Jello you prefer, such as raspberry or cherry, for a different color and taste.
Make ahead: Prepare the Jello and whipped cream layers a day in advance and assemble the treats just before serving.
For a different presentation: Serve the treats in clear glasses or small jars to show off the vibrant red layer.

These Santa Hat Jello Treats are a festive, easy-to-make dessert that brings joy to any holiday celebration! They’re cute, colorful, and perfect for spreading holiday cheer. Would you like any other festive recipes or tips for holiday treats?