Introduction
Mosaic Jelly Cake, also known as Broken Glass Jelly Cake, is a stunning no-bake dessert made with colorful cubes of flavored gelatin suspended in a creamy vanilla base. It’s light, refreshing, and visually impressive, making it perfect for parties, holidays, birthdays, or hot weather. Despite its elegant look, this dessert is simple to prepare and requires no oven at all.
Ingredients
For the Colorful Jelly Cubes
- 4 to 5 boxes flavored gelatin (different colors and flavors like strawberry, lime, orange, lemon, grape)
- Water (as directed on each gelatin package)
For the Creamy Base
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream or evaporated milk
- 1 can (14 oz / 397 g) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 packets unflavored gelatin (about 14 g total)
- ½ cup cold water (for blooming gelatin)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Colored Gelatin
Prepare each flavored gelatin separately according to package instructions. Pour each flavor into shallow containers so the jelly sets in thin layers. Refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours or until completely firm.
Step 2: Cut the Jelly
Once set, cut all the gelatin into small cubes. Place the cubes gently into a large bowl and lightly mix to distribute the colors evenly. Set aside.
Step 3: Bloom the Unflavored Gelatin
In a small bowl, add unflavored gelatin to ½ cup cold water. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until fully absorbed and spongy.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Mixture
In a saucepan over low heat, combine milk and cream. Warm gently without boiling. Add the bloomed gelatin and stir until completely dissolved. Remove from heat and mix in sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Let the mixture cool slightly (it should be warm, not hot).
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
Place the jelly cubes into a lightly greased bundt pan or round mold. Slowly pour the creamy mixture over the jelly cubes, tapping the mold gently to remove air bubbles and ensure even coverage.
Step 6: Chill
Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, until fully set.
Step 7: Unmold and Serve
To unmold, briefly dip the bottom of the mold in warm water, then invert onto a serving plate. Slice and enjoy!
Methods and Tips
- Use thin jelly layers so cubes look sharp and colorful
- Do not pour hot cream mixture onto jelly or it will melt
- Bundt pans give the most dramatic presentation
- You can use coconut milk for a tropical version
- Add fruit cubes for extra texture if desired
History
Gelatin desserts became popular in the early 20th century when gelatin became widely available for home cooking. Mosaic jelly desserts evolved as a creative way to combine flavors and colors, becoming especially popular in Latin America, Europe, and festive home kitchens worldwide.
Benefits
- No baking required
- Light and refreshing dessert
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- Customizable flavors and colors
- Perfect make-ahead dessert
Nutrition (Approximate per slice)
- Calories: 220–260
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 7 g
- Sugar: 30 g
Formation and Texture
The dessert forms when unflavored gelatin binds the creamy mixture, locking colorful jelly cubes in place. The result is a smooth, creamy bite with bursts of fruity gelatin in every slice.
Lovers of This Dessert
This cake is loved by kids for its colors, adults for its nostalgia, and hosts for its stunning appearance. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at gatherings.
Conclusion
Mosaic Jelly Cake is proof that simple ingredients can create a show-stopping dessert. With its creamy base, vibrant colors, and refreshing taste, it’s a timeless recipe worth saving and sharing. Once you make it, it’s sure to become a family favorite