Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Why You’ll Love This Easy Dessert
- Simple Layers That Wow
- Perfect for Holidays and Gatherings
- Make It Your Own with Creative Twists
- Storage and Serving Tips
- Final Thoughts from Betty Cooks
- 1 can (15 oz) fruit cocktail, drained
- 2 packs (0.3 oz each) clear unflavored gelatin (e.g. Knox)
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 packs (0.3 oz each) clear unflavored gelatin
- 1 cup water
- In a saucepan, combine water and sugar. Bring to a light simmer over medium heat.
- Add the gelatin and stir continuously until completely dissolved.
- Let the mixture cool slightly, then pour into a 9×9-inch square dish.
- Evenly distribute the drained fruit cocktail over the gelatin mixture.
- Refrigerate for about 1 hour, or until firm.
- In another saucepan, combine water and gelatin over medium heat and stir until fully dissolved.
- Remove from heat and mix in evaporated milk and sweetened condensed milk. Stir well.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then gently pour over the set fruit layer.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until completely set.
- Slice into squares before serving.
Key Takeaways
This two-layer fruit cocktail jelly is one of those easy desserts that feels effortless yet elegant. With minimal ingredients and no oven required, it’s the perfect make-ahead treat for holidays, potlucks, and special occasions. The fruity top layer paired with a silky creamy base makes it a crowd-pleasing dessert that everyone will remember.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Dessert
If you’re a fan of easy desserts, this two-layer jelly treat from Betty Cooks is a must-try. Betty brings you a sweet and satisfying recipe that’s both light and luxurious. From the fruity top to the smooth creamy layer, it delivers contrasting textures and flavors in every bite. It’s also budget-friendly, beginner-approved, and can be whipped up in under 30 minutes of active prep!

Simple Layers That Wow
The beauty of this dessert lies in its simplicity. The clear fruit layer shows off vibrant fruit cocktail pieces while the bottom layer provides a creamy contrast. This no bake dessert idea plays with color and texture to deliver a treat that’s as eye-catching as it is delicious. If you’ve been looking for sweet easy recipes that look impressive but don’t stress you out in the kitchen—this is it.

Perfect for Holidays and Gatherings
Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, a baby shower, or a summer BBQ, this easy dessert recipe is your go-to solution. It’s ideal for serving a crowd and perfect for holiday dessert recipes where oven space is limited. You’ll appreciate how quickly it sets in the fridge while giving you time to focus on other dishes or enjoy your guests.

Make It Your Own with Creative Twists
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different canned fruits or flavored gelatin. Want a tropical twist? Try pineapple chunks and coconut milk for the creamy base. Looking for something more festive? Add red and green cherries to align with your holiday theme. It’s one of those quick and easy recipes you can easily adapt without losing its charm.
Storage and Serving Tips
This layered jelly keeps well for up to five days in the refrigerator. Store it covered to maintain freshness and prevent it from absorbing fridge odors. Serve it chilled and slice just before serving for best presentation. It’s a desserts to impress staple that tastes as great on day five as it does on day one.
Final Thoughts from Betty Cooks
At Betty Cooks, we love sharing easy desserts that are both beautiful and delicious. This two-layer fruit cocktail jelly is a fun, nostalgic, and foolproof dessert that always sparks joy. From sweet easy recipes to crowd-pleasing recipes like this, we aim to make your time in the kitchen more rewarding and less stressful. Give it a try and watch your guests ask for seconds!



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