These Strawberry Jell-O Parfaits with Cool Whip are a bright, refreshing dessert that brings joy with every layer.

The soft, fruity Jell-O, juicy strawberries, and creamy whipped topping come together in a playful presentation that’s perfect for summer parties, Valentine’s Day, or an easy weeknight treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Visually stunning – The layered look and tilted glass presentation wow every time.

Fun to make – Get creative with angles and sprinkles!

Kid-friendly and adult-approved – Everyone loves a sweet Jell-O treat.

Make-ahead friendly – Chill and serve when you’re ready.

Low effort, big payoff – Simple steps, show-stopping results.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Strawberry Jell-O – The fruity base that sets into a vibrant red layer.

Fresh strawberries – Adds texture, flavor, and freshness to each bite.

Cool Whip – Fluffy and light, it blends perfectly with the Jell-O for a dreamy topping.

Red sprinkles – A festive finish to this already cheerful dessert.

Clear dessert glasses – For showing off those beautiful layers.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Chill your glasses at an angle – Rest them in a muffin tin to create a dramatic slant.

Use cold water when mixing Jell-O – It sets faster and more evenly.

Chop strawberries evenly – Small pieces blend better and sit nicely in the Jell-O.

Let the topping chill separately – It thickens and sets up beautifully before adding.

Add sprinkles just before serving – So they stay bright and crisp.

How to Make Strawberry Jell-O Parfaits

Step 1: Prepare the Jell-O
Make the Jell-O according to package instructions.

Once dissolved, set aside about ⅓ cup for the topping layer.

Step 2: Mix in strawberries
Chop the fresh strawberries and stir them into the larger portion of prepared Jell-O.

Step 3: Assemble the base layer
Spoon the Jell-O with strawberries into five dessert or wine glasses.

Cover each with plastic wrap.

Step 4: Tilt and chill
Rest the glasses at an angle inside a muffin tin or dish. Chill until the Jell-O is fully set.

Step 5: Prepare the topping
Fold the reserved ⅓ cup of Jell-O into the Cool Whip until fully combined.

Chill the mixture until the base layers are set.

Step 6: Top the parfaits
Spoon the Cool Whip mixture over the set Jell-O base in each glass.

Step 7: Garnish and serve
Sprinkle red sprinkles on top for a festive touch and serve immediately or chill until ready.

What to Serve It With

Chocolate-dipped pretzels

Strawberry shortbread cookies

A glass of sparkling lemonade

Vanilla cupcakes or sponge cake

A fresh mint leaf for garnish

Variations / Substitutions

Use raspberry or cherry Jell-O for a fun flavor twist.

Swap in Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier topping.

Add crushed graham crackers at the bottom for a parfait-like crunch.

Use dairy-free whipped topping to make it vegan.

Layer in strawberry puree for added fruit flavor between layers.

Storage & Leftovers

Refrigerate leftovers covered in plastic wrap for up to 3 days.

Do not freeze – Jell-O doesn’t hold texture after thawing.

Store topping separately if making ahead.

Best served chilled within 24 hours for optimal texture.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything and refrigerate until serving—just wait to add the sprinkles until the end.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
You can! Just make sure it’s whipped to stiff peaks so it holds its shape.

How do I tilt the glasses?
Use a muffin tin or prop them at an angle inside a loaf pan lined with a towel to stabilize them.

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh is best for texture, but thawed and well-drained frozen strawberries will work in a pinch.

Do I have to use sprinkles?
No, but they add a festive touch.

You could also use crushed freeze-dried strawberries or chocolate shavings.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—this recipe doubles easily to serve a crowd.

Final Thoughts

These Strawberry Jell-O Parfaits with Cool Whip are simple, sweet, and so much fun to make.

Whether you’re prepping for a party or looking for a nostalgic treat, these parfaits deliver with vibrant layers and creamy topping.

I love how just a few ingredients create such an eye-catching, crowd-pleasing dessert.