This refreshing lime Jello salad is a creamy, fruity, and nostalgic dessert that’s perfect for gatherings. Made with just five simple ingredients, plus water, it’s an easy dish to prepare for a crowd. The combination of lime Jello, cream cheese, 7 UP, crushed pineapple, and Cool Whip creates a light and fluffy texture with a tangy-sweet flavor that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make – Requires only a few steps and minimal effort.
Perfect for gatherings – A great make-ahead dessert for potlucks, picnics, or holiday dinners.
Light and refreshing – The citrusy lime flavor is both creamy and refreshing.
Versatile – Can be served in a dish, molded, or as individual servings.
Kid-friendly – A fun, jiggly dessert that kids love.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 (6-ounce) package lime Jello (or two 3-ounce packages)
2 cups boiling water
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, room temperature
2 cups chilled 7 UP
1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
1 (12-ounce) container Cool Whip, thawed

Directions

Dissolve the Jello – Bring 2 cups of water to a boil and stir in the lime Jello powder. Mix well until fully dissolved.
Blend the Cream Cheese – In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
Combine Jello and Cream Cheese – Gradually add the dissolved Jello to the cream cheese in three batches, blending with a hand mixer after each addition to prevent lumps.
Add the 7 UP – Stir in the chilled 7 UP and mix by hand.
Chill Until Thickened – Place the mixture in the refrigerator for 30-60 minutes, checking every 15 minutes. It should thicken to the consistency of egg whites or a slightly gelatinous texture.
Fold in the Cool Whip – Once the mixture is thick but still pourable, fold in the Cool Whip and mix well.
Add Pineapple – Stir in the drained crushed pineapple.
Set the Salad – Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch serving dish or Jello mold.
Chill Until Fully Set – Refrigerate for at least 5 hours, or until firm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 5 hours
Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Nutty Crunch – Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra texture.
Tropical Twist – Use pineapple juice instead of 7 UP for a fruitier flavor.
Marshmallow Mix – Fold in mini marshmallows for added sweetness.
Cherry Lime Version – Mix in maraschino cherry pieces for a fun, colorful twist.
Sugar-Free Option – Use sugar-free Jello and light Cool Whip for a lower-calorie version.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration – Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing – Not recommended, as Jello-based desserts do not freeze well.
Serving Tip – Serve chilled straight from the fridge for the best texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different flavor of Jello?

Yes, lemon or orange Jello would also work well for a citrusy twist.

2. What can I use instead of 7 UP?

You can substitute Sprite, ginger ale, or plain club soda.

3. How do I prevent lumps in the cream cheese?

Blend the cream cheese separately and add the Jello mixture gradually while mixing to ensure a smooth texture.

4. Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, but the texture may be slightly different. Use 2 cups of stabilized whipped cream.

5. Can I add fresh fruit instead of canned pineapple?

Yes, but avoid fruits like kiwi and papaya, which can prevent the Jello from setting properly.

6. How long does it take to fully set?

At least 5 hours, but overnight is best for a firm texture.

7. Can I make this in individual servings?

Yes, pour the mixture into small cups or ramekins for single-serve portions.

8. Can I use reduced-fat cream cheese?

Yes, but it may slightly alter the texture.

9. Will this work in a decorative Jello mold?

Yes, but make sure to grease the mold lightly to help with easy removal.

10. What’s the best way to serve this salad?

It can be served as a side dish or dessert, garnished with extra Cool Whip or lime zest.

Conclusion

Lime Jello salad is a nostalgic and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy, citrusy flavor and light, fluffy texture, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare. Whether served in a dish or molded into a fun shape, this dessert is sure to be a hit at your next gathering!

no-bake Lime Jello

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Author: asma
Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Lime Jello Salad is a retro dessert classic that’s light, creamy, and refreshingly sweet! Made with just 5 ingredients, including lime Jello, cream cheese, pineapple, Cool Whip, and 7UP, this no-bake treat is easy to make and perfect for potlucks, holidays, and summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 (6 oz) package lime Jello (or two 3 oz packages)
2 cups boiling water
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
2 cups chilled 7UP
1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
1 (12 oz) container Cool Whip, thawed

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Instructions

Dissolve the Jello – Bring 2 cups of water to a boil, then stir in the lime Jello until fully dissolved. Remove from heat.
Blend the Cream Cheese – In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
Combine Jello & Cream Cheese – Add the Jello mixture to the cream cheese in 3 small batches, mixing with a hand mixer each time to prevent lumps.
Mix in 7UP – Gently stir in the chilled 7UP by hand.
Chill Until Slightly Thickened – Refrigerate for 30-60 minutes, checking every 15 minutes, until the mixture has a thick but soupy consistency (like egg whites).
Fold in Cool Whip & Pineapple – Once the Jello mixture is thickened, stir in Cool Whip and drained pineapple until evenly combined.
Pour & Set – Transfer the mixture into a 9×13 serving dish or Jello mold and chill until fully set (about 5 hours or overnight).
Serve & Enjoy!

Notes

For a firmer set, let the Jello chill longer before adding Cool Whip.
For extra crunch, add chopped pecans or walnuts before chilling.
Storage: Keep covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Additional Time: 5 hours
Category: Dessert, Salad
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American, Retro