Lemon Jello Parfait combines zesty flavor with creamy layers. This gelatin dessert balances lightness and indulgence perfectly. It’s a great alternative to Greek yogurt parfait to celebrate Parfait Day on November 25.
Contents
Lemon jello parfait recipe
Lemon jello parfait is a tart version of the jello parfait dessert. This layered dessert consists of lemon-flavored gelatin (like Jello), creamy elements like pudding or yogurt, and whipped cream.

Lemon Jello parfaits have a bright, zesty flavor with sweet and tart notes. Lemon jello has a citrusy taste like lemonade. Creamy components add smoothness that balances the tartness. This balance makes the dessert light and refreshing.
Lemon Jello parfaits pair well with drinks like mojitos, lemonade, iced tea, sparkling water, and white wine spritzers. They complement the parfait’s refreshing and citrusy flavor.
Savory dishes like grilled chicken or fish, fresh fruits like berries or melon, and a crisp salad complement the parfaits. For dessert, try lemon sorbet or vanilla ice cream for a delightful finish.
The dessert is perfect for barbecues, potlucks, and formal events on warm weather or as a palate cleanser. Here is how to make the lemon jello parfait:

Lemon Jello Parfait
Nutrition
Ingredients
- 1 package (3 oz) lemon-flavored Jello
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
- A slice of lemon optional, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the lemon gelatin in 2 cups of boiling water. Stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
- Add 1 cup of cold water to the gelatin mixture and stir well.
- Pour the gelatin mixture into individual glasses, filling each glass about ¼ full. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until set. This creates your first layer.
- Once set, spoon a layer of whipped cream over the jello in each glass. Chill again for at least 15 minutes to let the whipped cream set slightly.
- Pour more jello mixture on top of the whipped cream layer and chill to set. Continue alternating between jello and whipped cream layers until you’ve filled each glass.
- Garnish with a slice of lemon if desired before serving.
Variations
Lemon jello parfait has many variations:
- Sunshine Lemon Jello Whips
- Lemon jello desserts are light and fluffy, made with Greek yogurt and chilled before serving.
- Dissolve lemon jello in boiling water, blend with yogurt until smooth, and chill.
- Lemon Pudding Parfait
- Lemon pudding parfait includes pudding, sweetened condensed milk, and lemon wafers, layered and chilled.
- Mix pudding, condensed milk, and whipped cream, layer with lemon wafers, and chill.
- Lemon Mousse Jello Cups
- Lemon mousse jello cups combine a set jello layer topped with creamy mousse and chilled.
- Prepare jello first, allow to set, then add whipped mousse and chill.
- Fluffy Lemon Jello Salad
- Fluffy lemon jello salad is smooth and velvety, perfect for gatherings.
- Mix lemon jello, pudding, and whipped topping until smooth, then chill before serving.
- Lemon Gelée: This version uses fresh lemon juice and honey for sweetness. It creates a softer texture than typical gelatin desserts.
- Customization Options
- Customize parfaits with cookies, fresh fruits, or flavored yogurts for extra flavor.
- Add citrus slices or granola to enhance the dessert.