Imagine biting into a cookie that melts in your mouth like cotton candy but delivers a burst of fruity flavor with every chew. These Easy Jello Meringue Cookies are vibrant, airy treats made with just a few simple ingredients and a box of flavored Jello. They’re the perfect fusion of texture and taste, bringing a pop of color and fun to any dessert table.

Whether you’re planning a party, need a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, or looking for a unique edible gift idea, these cookies are sure to impress. They’re naturally gluten-free and low in fat, making them a delightful guilt-free indulgence you’ll love to whip up again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Jello Meringue Cookies Recipe

These cookies are everything a light dessert should be: crisp on the outside, soft and marshmallowy inside, and infused with fruity Jello flavors that keep things fun and customizable. Choose from raspberry, strawberry, lime, or any other flavor that suits your fancy—each batch turns out with a brilliant hue and a distinct flavor twist.

Plus, they keep well, are kid-friendly, and make a wonderful make-ahead treat for holidays or gatherings. You’ll also love that you don’t need butter or flour, which keeps things light and accessible.

What Kind of Jello Should I Use?

The beauty of this recipe is in its flexibility. You can use any standard 3 oz box of flavored gelatin you prefer. Raspberry and strawberry are classic choices, but feel free to get creative with blue raspberry, lemon, or even a mix of two flavors for a unique twist. Just make sure to use the powdered kind (not the premade gel cups), as it mixes directly into the meringue and adds both flavor and color.

Ingredients for the Easy Jello Meringue Cookies

You’ll only need a handful of pantry staples to make these vibrant cookies. Each ingredient plays an important role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor:

Egg Whites – These form the base of the meringue, providing structure and that signature fluffy texture.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps stabilize the egg whites into stiff, glossy peaks.
Jello Gelatin (3 oz box) – The star ingredient! Choose your favorite flavor to color and infuse the cookies.
Cream of Tartar – This acidic ingredient strengthens the egg whites, ensuring they whip up properly and hold their shape.
Salt – Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.

How To Make the Easy Jello Meringue Cookies

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet

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

Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites

In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with cream of tartar and salt until soft peaks form. It’s important there is no yolk in the whites and that your bowl is grease-free.

Step 3: Add Sugar Gradually

Slowly add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat. Keep whipping until stiff, glossy peaks form.

Step 4: Mix in the Jello

Once your meringue is ready, sprinkle in the Jello powder and gently fold or beat on low until fully incorporated. The mixture should take on the color and scent of the Jello.

Step 5: Pipe or Spoon onto Sheets

Use a piping bag or two spoons to drop small mounds of meringue onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about an inch apart.

Step 6: Bake Low and Slow

Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours or until the cookies are dry to the touch and can be lifted off the parchment cleanly. Turn off the oven and let them cool inside for an extra hour to avoid cracks.

Step 7: Cool Completely

Once cooled, store them in an airtight container. Enjoy the crisp outside and chewy, fruity center!

Serving and Storing Easy Jello Meringue Cookies

This recipe yields around 30 to 40 cookies, depending on how large you pipe or scoop them. That makes it perfect for parties, potlucks, or just stocking your pantry with a fun treat. These cookies are best served at room temperature, where their texture really shines—light and crisp with a fruity chew inside.

To store, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and crisp for up to one week. Avoid humid environments as moisture can soften the cookies. If needed, you can re-crisp them in a low oven for a few minutes.

What to Serve With Easy Jello Meringue Cookies?

Hot Tea or Iced Herbal Tea

The lightness of the cookies pairs beautifully with a soothing cup of tea, especially floral or fruity blends.

Fresh Berries

Add a side of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of natural fruitiness that complements the Jello flavor.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Serve a few cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla or berry-flavored ice cream for a colorful dessert plate.

Lemon Curd

Dip or drizzle with lemon curd to introduce a zesty contrast that elevates the sweet, fruity meringue.

Chocolate Sauce

Though not traditional, a light drizzle of dark chocolate sauce over these cookies can add depth and decadence.

Whipped Cream

A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream transforms this into an elegant bite-sized dessert.

Yogurt Parfaits

Crumble the cookies into a parfait with layers of yogurt and fresh fruit for a textured, healthy snack.

Party Platters

Include them on a dessert platter with other colorful sweets for holidays, baby showers, or birthday celebrations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these without cream of tartar?
Yes, though cream of tartar helps stabilize the meringue, you can substitute it with a bit of lemon juice or white vinegar. Use about 1/2 teaspoon for the same effect.

Do I need a stand mixer to make these cookies?
While a stand mixer makes the process easier, a handheld electric mixer works just as well. Just be prepared to whip the egg whites for several minutes to reach stiff peaks.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cookies store well for up to a week in an airtight container, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert for parties and gatherings.

Are these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, they are naturally gluten-free since they contain no flour or gluten-based ingredients. Just be sure the Jello brand you use is also gluten-free.

Can I use sugar-free Jello?
It’s best to stick with regular Jello. Sugar-free versions often contain alternative sweeteners and fillers that may affect the texture and structure of the meringue.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 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 raspberry or lemon? Maybe even swirl two flavors?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Tanya Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Easy Jello Meringue Cookies are a joyful, colorful addition to any dessert lineup. They’re light, delicious, and endlessly customizable based on your favorite Jello flavors. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this easy recipe is a delightful way to sweeten your day. Whether you’re hosting, gifting, or just treating yourself, these cookies bring smiles in every bite.

Easy Jello Meringue Cookies

Author: Tanya Rivers
Total Time: 140
Yield: 36 cookies

Print Recipe

Description

These Easy Jello Meringue Cookies are light, colorful, and bursting with fruity flavor. Made with just egg whites, sugar, and a box of flavored Jello, they offer a crisp exterior and a soft, marshmallow-like center. This easy recipe is perfect for parties, edible gifts, or a guilt-free snack. Gluten-free and low-fat, they’re a delightful choice for anyone looking for a fun and quick dessert idea.