Get ready to travel back in time with this Vintage Jello Delight! This retro dessert combines a moist cake, fruity gelatin, and creamy layers to create a fun and delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. It's a sweet reminder of how simplicity can bring so much joy.
The base of this dessert is a yellow cake mix, which makes it super convenient and quick to prepare, providing a light and fluffy texture. The eggs add richness and structure, while the vegetable oil keeps the cake moist. Strawberry-flavored gelatin infuses the cake with a burst of fruity flavor, creating a beautiful marbled effect as it seeps into the holes. We use instant vanilla pudding mix to lend a creamy layer that balances the sweetness, and milk helps to thicken it up. Finally, whipped topping adds a smooth, airy finish that ties everything together.
This Vintage Jello Delight pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. For a festive touch, add a sprinkle of fresh strawberries or a few mint leaves on top before serving. It’s a refreshing treat, especially on a warm day!
First, set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the yellow cake mix, three large eggs, 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, and 1 cup of water. Stir until the batter is nice and smooth, then pour it into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Pop it in the oven and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes. You'll know it's done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
While your cake bakes, it's time to prepare the gelatin. Dissolve a box of strawberry-flavored gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water. Once it's all mixed in, add 1/2 cup of cold water and give it a good stir. When the cake is finished baking, let it cool just enough so it's not too hot to touch. Use a fork to poke holes all over the top — don't be shy, the more, the merrier! Pour the prepared gelatin evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into those holes.
Next, let's tackle the pudding layer. In a separate bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix with 2 cups of milk. Stir until it thickens up nicely. Spread this pudding over the cooled, gelatin-soaked cake. Finally, top it all off with the whipped topping, spreading it into an even layer. Now, let the cake chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours so the flavors can meld beautifully.