Red Hot Jello

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Red Hot Jello is a unique and nostalgic dessert made with cinnamon candies that melt into cherry gelatin, giving it a spicy-sweet kick. It’s a fun and colorful addition to holiday tables, potlucks, or retro-themed parties. The unexpected burst of cinnamon makes this jello stand out among classic gelatin dishes.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cherry jello (gelatin mix)
water
Red Hots cinnamon candies
crushed pineapple (drained)
applesauce

directions

In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil.

Add the Red Hots candies and stir until completely dissolved.

Remove from heat and stir in the cherry jello mix until fully dissolved.

Let the mixture cool slightly, then stir in the drained crushed pineapple and applesauce.

Pour the mixture into a mold or serving dish and refrigerate until set, about 4 hours or overnight.

Once fully set, serve chilled.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooling and chilling time: 4 hours
Total time: 4 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Use strawberry or raspberry jello instead of cherry for a different fruity flavor.
Add chopped nuts for extra texture.
Top with whipped cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
Mold into festive shapes for themed parties or holidays.

storage/reheating

Store Red Hot Jello covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Do not freeze, as gelatin loses its texture when thawed.

FAQs

What are Red Hots?
They are small, cinnamon-flavored hard candies that dissolve into the jello, giving it a spicy flavor.

Can I make this without pineapple?
Yes, you can skip the pineapple or substitute with chopped pears or peaches.

Can I use sugar-free jello?
Absolutely, sugar-free gelatin works just as well.

Why is my jello not setting?
Ensure the mixture cools before adding fruit and that you refrigerate it long enough to firm up.

Is this spicy?
It has a mild cinnamon heat—noticeable but not overwhelming.

Can I make it ahead?
Yes, it’s best made a day in advance for the best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Red Hot Jello brings a spicy twist to a classic dessert, blending sweet cherry flavor with the warmth of cinnamon. It’s colorful, nostalgic, and easy to make—a perfect crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Give it a try and enjoy the surprise of this retro favorite!

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