Easy Jello Meringue Cookies

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These Easy Jello Meringue Cookies are the colorful, cloud-like treats your dessert table has been missing. With their crisp exteriors and melt-in-your-mouth centers, they deliver a fruity punch in every bite thanks to the unexpected twist of flavored gelatin. Whether you’re making them for a birthday party, spring celebration, or just because you want to bake something fun and fabulous, these cookies are guaranteed to steal the show.

What makes these meringue cookies so unique is how simple they are to whip up using pantry staples, and yet they look like little works of edible art. The Jello not only infuses flavor but also brings that cheerful pastel swirl that makes each bite as pretty as it is tasty. They’re light, airy, gluten-free, and totally irresistible.

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What Kind of Jello Should I Use?

You can use any flavor of Jello you love! Strawberry, raspberry, lime, lemon, orange, or even blue raspberry – the possibilities are endless. Each flavor brings its own vibrant hue and fruity essence, so feel free to mix and match for a rainbow batch. Just be sure to use the powdered gelatin mix, not the prepared Jello.

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Ingredients for the Easy Jello Meringue Cookies

Egg Whites – The backbone of any meringue. Make sure they are room temperature for maximum volume when whipped.

Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the meringue and helps stabilize it into stiff, glossy peaks.

Jello Powder – Adds both color and flavor. You only need a few tablespoons to transform a basic meringue into something fruity and fun.

Cream of Tartar – Acts as a stabilizer to help the egg whites hold their shape.

Pinch of Salt – Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.

Optional: Food Coloring – For an extra punch of color to match or complement your Jello flavor.

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How To Make the Easy Jello Meringue Cookies

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Space

Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This low temperature ensures your meringues dry out without browning.

Step 2: Beat the Egg Whites

In a clean, grease-free bowl, start whipping the egg whites with a pinch of salt and cream of tartar. Use a stand mixer or hand mixer on medium-high speed until soft peaks begin to form.

Step 3: Add the Sugar Gradually

Slowly add the granulated sugar, a tablespoon at a time. Keep beating until the mixture forms stiff, glossy peaks. You should be able to hold the bowl upside down without anything moving.

Step 4: Fold in the Jello Powder

Sprinkle in your Jello powder and gently fold it in. If using more than one flavor, divide the meringue and fold each color separately.

Step 5: Add Optional Coloring

If you want your cookies to have a bolder appearance or swirled shades, now’s the time to add a drop of food coloring. A toothpick swirl creates a pastel watercolor effect.

Step 6: Pipe the Cookies

Transfer the meringue into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe small swirls onto the parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them slightly apart.

Step 7: Bake Low and Slow

Bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Turn the oven off and let the meringues sit inside for another hour with the door slightly ajar to cool and fully dry.

Step 8: Serve or Store

Once cool and crisp, your Jello Meringue Cookies are ready to enjoy or store in an airtight container.

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How to Serve and Store Jello Meringue Cookies

These cookies are delightful served as a light after-dinner treat or displayed at parties and brunches. You can match the colors to holidays or events – think pink and red for Valentine’s, pastels for Easter, or bold blue and red for July 4th.

To store, place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep their crisp texture for up to 5 days. Avoid humidity, as moisture can make the meringues sticky or chewy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these without cream of tartar?

Yes, if you don’t have cream of tartar, you can use a tiny splash of lemon juice or white vinegar to help stabilize the egg whites.

Do I have to use food coloring?

Not at all! The Jello powder already gives a hint of color. Food coloring is only needed if you want a more vibrant or swirled appearance.

Can I freeze meringue cookies?

Freezing is not ideal for meringue cookies, as it can cause them to become sticky or collapse once thawed. It’s best to enjoy them fresh.

Why did my meringue cookies crack or collapse?

This could be due to over-beating the egg whites or a sudden change in temperature. Always cool them slowly in the oven.

Can I use sugar substitutes?

Granulated sugar is essential for the structure and texture. Alternatives may not produce the same crispness.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! These meringue cookies are naturally gluten-free, making them great for those with gluten sensitivities.

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Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these fruity Jello meringue cookies, you’ll probably enjoy these other fun and flavorful cookies from the blog:

• Condensed Milk Snow Cookies with a meltaway texture that pairs beautifully with tea.
• Lemon Churro Cookies for a citrusy zing with a cinnamon sugar crunch.
• Caramel Cheesecake Cookies if you’re craving gooey, creamy decadence.
• Cherry-Topped Coconut Macaroons for a tropical touch and pop of color.
• Zesty Lemon Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies when you want something fast and full of flavor.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you use one Jello flavor or go rainbow style? Did you add extra swirl colors?

I love seeing how these cookies turn out in different kitchens. Questions or tips? Share them below so we can all bake a little brighter together.

For more colorful sweets and simple baking ideas, follow me on Pinterest at Life with Jam.

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