These Strawberry Jell-O Parfaits with Cool Whip are a bright, refreshing dessert that brings joy with every layer.
The soft, fruity Jell-O, juicy strawberries, and creamy whipped topping come together in a playful presentation that’s perfect for summer parties, Valentine’s Day, or an easy weeknight treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Visually stunning – The layered look and tilted glass presentation wow every time.
Fun to make – Get creative with angles and sprinkles!
Kid-friendly and adult-approved – Everyone loves a sweet Jell-O treat.
Make-ahead friendly – Chill and serve when you’re ready.
Low effort, big payoff – Simple steps, show-stopping results.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Strawberry Jell-O – The fruity base that sets into a vibrant red layer.
Fresh strawberries – Adds texture, flavor, and freshness to each bite.
Cool Whip – Fluffy and light, it blends perfectly with the Jell-O for a dreamy topping.
Red sprinkles – A festive finish to this already cheerful dessert.
Clear dessert glasses – For showing off those beautiful layers.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Chill your glasses at an angle – Rest them in a muffin tin to create a dramatic slant.
Use cold water when mixing Jell-O – It sets faster and more evenly.
Chop strawberries evenly – Small pieces blend better and sit nicely in the Jell-O.
Let the topping chill separately – It thickens and sets up beautifully before adding.
Add sprinkles just before serving – So they stay bright and crisp.
How to Make Strawberry Jell-O Parfaits
Step 1: Prepare the Jell-O
Make the Jell-O according to package instructions.
Once dissolved, set aside about ⅓ cup for the topping layer.
Step 2: Mix in strawberries
Chop the fresh strawberries and stir them into the larger portion of prepared Jell-O.
Step 3: Assemble the base layer
Spoon the Jell-O with strawberries into five dessert or wine glasses.
Cover each with plastic wrap.
Step 4: Tilt and chill
Rest the glasses at an angle inside a muffin tin or dish. Chill until the Jell-O is fully set.
Step 5: Prepare the topping
Fold the reserved ⅓ cup of Jell-O into the Cool Whip until fully combined.
Chill the mixture until the base layers are set.
Step 6: Top the parfaits
Spoon the Cool Whip mixture over the set Jell-O base in each glass.
Step 7: Garnish and serve
Sprinkle red sprinkles on top for a festive touch and serve immediately or chill until ready.
What to Serve It With
Chocolate-dipped pretzels
Strawberry shortbread cookies
A glass of sparkling lemonade
Vanilla cupcakes or sponge cake
A fresh mint leaf for garnish
Variations / Substitutions
Use raspberry or cherry Jell-O for a fun flavor twist.
Swap in Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier topping.
Add crushed graham crackers at the bottom for a parfait-like crunch.
Use dairy-free whipped topping to make it vegan.
Layer in strawberry puree for added fruit flavor between layers.
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate leftovers covered in plastic wrap for up to 3 days.
Do not freeze – Jell-O doesn’t hold texture after thawing.
Store topping separately if making ahead.
Best served chilled within 24 hours for optimal texture.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything and refrigerate until serving—just wait to add the sprinkles until the end.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
You can! Just make sure it’s whipped to stiff peaks so it holds its shape.
How do I tilt the glasses?
Use a muffin tin or prop them at an angle inside a loaf pan lined with a towel to stabilize them.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh is best for texture, but thawed and well-drained frozen strawberries will work in a pinch.
Do I have to use sprinkles?
No, but they add a festive touch.
You could also use crushed freeze-dried strawberries or chocolate shavings.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—this recipe doubles easily to serve a crowd.
Final Thoughts
These Strawberry Jell-O Parfaits with Cool Whip are simple, sweet, and so much fun to make.
Whether you’re prepping for a party or looking for a nostalgic treat, these parfaits deliver with vibrant layers and creamy topping.
I love how just a few ingredients create such an eye-catching, crowd-pleasing dessert.
