Creamsicle Jell-O Mold

Yield: Serves 10 to 12 | Prep Time: 20 minutes | Chill Time: Overnight

Jell-O molds are an iconic part of the baby boomer era of food. Jell-O had many different appeals. It was budget-friendly, since leftovers would last longer when encased in Jell-O. Plus, it was a tidy dish where guests wouldn’t have to worry about leaving crumbs everywhere. This creamy version is an homage to the once-popular dish.

INGREDIENTS

Orange Filling

2 (0.25-ounce) envelopes unflavored gelatin

½ cup cold water

½ cup boiling water

½ cup sugar

2 cups fresh orange juice

Vanilla Base

2 cups vanilla bean ice cream

3 (0.25-ounce) envelopes unflavored gelatin

½ cup cold water

1 cup boiling water

¼ cup sugar

DIRECTIONS

  1. For the orange filling: In a medium bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and set aside for 5 minutes. The gelatin will soften and “bloom.” Pour the boiling water over the gelatin and whisk until completely dissolved. Add the sugar and orange juice and stir to dissolve the sugar.
  2. Pour into an 8 × 8-inch dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
  3. For the vanilla base: Scoop the ice cream into a large bowl and melt in the microwave, about 2 minutes. Set aside to cool to room temperature.
  4. In a medium bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and set aside for 5 minutes. The gelatin will soften and “bloom.” Pour the boiling water over the gelatin and whisk until completely dissolved. Add the sugar and stir to dissolve. Stir in the melted ice cream.
  5. Allow the mixture to rest and return to room temperature.
  6. Remove the orange filling from the fridge and cut into cubes. Transfer the cubes to a Jell-O mold of your choice. Gently pour the vanilla mixture over the orange cubes. Carefully shake the mold to release any trapped air pockets. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
  7. When ready to serve, fill a large container (or the sink) with hot water. Carefully dip the bottom of the mold into the water for 5 to 10 seconds. This will help release the Jell-O from the mold. Dry the bottom of the mold and invert it over a serving dish.
  8. Cut into slices and serve.