Vibrant, whimsical, and melt-in-your-mouth delightful, these Easy Jello Meringue Cookies are the perfect treat when you want something light, crisp, and colorful. With just a handful of pantry ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these eye-catching cookies that look like they came straight from a bakery window.

What sets these apart is the use of flavored gelatin powder (like Jell-O), which infuses each meringue with a gentle burst of fruity sweetness and a lovely hue. Whether you’re baking for a party, gifting, or just adding a pop of joy to your dessert tray, these cookies are as fun to make as they are to eat.

What Kind of Jello Should I Use?

You can use any flavor of gelatin powder you like—from classic strawberry and lemon to more unique varieties like watermelon or blue raspberry. The gelatin not only adds color but also enhances the meringue with a fruity fragrance and subtle flavor. Use multiple flavors for a rainbow effect, or stick to one for a uniform theme.

Ingredients for the Easy Jello Meringue Cookies

Egg Whites: The foundation of any good meringue, egg whites give the cookies their light, airy texture. Make sure they’re at room temperature for best results.
Cream of Tartar: Helps stabilize the egg whites and gives structure to the meringue.

Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the meringue and helps it achieve that glossy finish.
Flavored Gelatin Powder: The star of the show. Adds both color and a subtle fruity taste.
Vanilla Extract (optional): Adds a warm undertone that complements any gelatin flavor.

How To Make the Easy Jello Meringue Cookies

Step 1: Prep Your Tools and Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Make sure your mixing bowl and beaters are spotless—any grease or residue can ruin the meringue.

Step 2: Beat the Egg Whites

In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until foamy. Add cream of tartar and continue beating until soft peaks form.

Step 3: Sweeten and Flavor

Gradually add granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat. Once the mixture reaches stiff peaks and appears glossy, gently beat in the flavored gelatin powder of your choice and optional vanilla extract.

Step 4: Pipe the Meringue

Spoon the meringue into a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe small swirls onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each one.

Step 5: Bake Low and Slow

Bake the meringues for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until they are crisp and can be easily lifted off the parchment. Turn off the oven and let them cool inside with the door slightly ajar for an extra-crisp finish.

How to Serve and Store These Colorful Cookies

These cookies are best served the day they’re made, when their crisp exterior and airy inside are at their peak. Arrange them on a decorative plate for a tea party, baby shower, or holiday gathering—their pastel swirls make them a natural centerpiece.

To store, place the meringue cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and crunchy for up to a week in a dry environment. Avoid humidity, which can soften the texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I prevent meringue from collapsing?

Make sure your bowl and beaters are completely clean and dry. Avoid over-mixing once the gelatin is added.

Can I use sugar-free gelatin?

Yes, but the texture may differ slightly. Regular gelatin gives more structure and stability.

Do I have to use a piping bag?

Nope! You can spoon the mixture into rustic dollops for a more casual look.

What if I don’t have cream of tartar?

A splash of lemon juice or white vinegar can help stabilize the egg whites as a substitute.

Why did my meringues crack?

Cracking usually happens from baking at too high a temperature or cooling them too quickly. Stick to low and slow!

Can I freeze meringue cookies?

Freezing is not ideal as they can absorb moisture and lose their crispness. Room temperature storage is best.

Want More Dessert Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these Easy Jello Meringue Cookies, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge for a rich, quick fix.

Strawberry Crunch Pound Cake when you want fruity indulgence.
Whipped Shortbread Cookies for a buttery, delicate bite.
Coconut Snowballs that feel like sweet holiday magic.

Orange Dreamsicle Salad if you’re into creamy citrus nostalgia.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 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 go full rainbow or stick to a single color? Try adding sprinkles or citrus zest?

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

Easy Jello Meringue Cookies

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 33 minute

Yield: About 40 small cookies

Print Recipe

Description

These Easy Jello Meringue Cookies are a bright and whimsical treat perfect for holidays, baby showers, or any time you want something fun and fruity. The flavored gelatin powder gives them a delicate color and a subtle sweetness, making them a hit for both kids and adults. Crisp on the outside and light as air inside, they practically melt in your mouth.

Ingredients

4 large egg whites (room temperature)

1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

1 cup granulated sugar

3 tablespoons flavored gelatin powder (any flavor)

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 200°F (93°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat egg whites on medium speed until foamy.

Add cream of tartar and continue beating until soft peaks form.
Gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating until stiff peaks form and the mixture is glossy.
Gently beat in the flavored gelatin powder and optional vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Transfer meringue to a piping bag fitted with a star tip.
Pipe small swirls onto the prepared baking sheets.
Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours until dry and crisp.

Turn off the oven and let cookies cool inside with the door slightly ajar.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

Category: Desserts