Here’s a detailed and long recipe for Mosaic Jelly, covering everything from its history to preparation, along with instructions and variations.
Mosaic Jelly: A Colorful and Delightful Treat
Mosaic Jelly, also known as Stained Glass Jelly or Broken Glass Jelly, is a fun and visually stunning dessert loved by people of all ages. This wobbly, colorful delight is made from different flavors of jelly cubes suspended in a creamy base. It is often served at celebrations, parties, and family gatherings due to its vibrant appearance and refreshing taste.
History of Mosaic Jelly
The origins of Mosaic Jelly trace back to the Philippines and Latin America, where gelatin-based desserts are popular. In Mexico, a similar dessert is known as Gelatina de Mosaico, while in the Philippines, it is sometimes referred to as Cathedral Window Jelly due to its resemblance to stained glass windows. The concept of using different colored jellies in a single dish has been around for decades, with variations appearing in different cultures worldwide.
Why People Love Mosaic Jelly
- Visually Stunning: The colorful cubes create a dazzling, mosaic-like effect that looks beautiful when sliced.
- Easy to Make: Requires only a few simple ingredients, yet the result is impressive.
- Customizable: Can be made with different flavors, colors, and even dairy-free or sugar-free alternatives.
- Refreshing: A perfect dessert for warm weather, served chilled.
- Loved by All Ages: Children love the fun colors, and adults enjoy the nostalgia and creamy texture.
Ingredients for Mosaic Jelly
For the Colored Jelly Cubes
- 3 packs (85g each) flavored gelatin (choose different colors such as strawberry, lime, orange, and blueberry)
- 3 cups boiling water (1 cup per gelatin pack)
For the Creamy Base
- 1 packet (14g) unflavored gelatin
- ½ cup cold water
- 1 ½ cups hot water
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup evaporated milk (or full-cream milk)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions to Make Mosaic Jelly
Step 1: Prepare the Colored Jelly Cubes
- In separate bowls, dissolve each flavored gelatin packet in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir well until completely dissolved.
- Pour each gelatin mixture into a separate shallow dish or container.
- Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, or until completely set.
- Once set, cut the jellies into small cubes and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Base
- In a small bowl, sprinkle unflavored gelatin over ½ cup of cold water. Let it bloom for 5 minutes.
- Pour 1 ½ cups of hot water over the bloomed gelatin and stir until completely dissolved.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Add the dissolved gelatin mixture to the milk mixture, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Step 3: Assemble the Mosaic Jelly
- In a large mold or serving dish, gently combine the colored jelly cubes.
- Pour the creamy gelatin mixture over the jelly cubes, making sure they are evenly distributed.
- Lightly tap the mold to remove air bubbles.
- Refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight for best results.
Step 4: Serving
- Once fully set, carefully unmold the jelly by running a knife along the edges and dipping the mold in warm water for a few seconds.
- Slice into squares or desired shapes and serve chilled.
Variations and Customization
- Fruity Version: Add chopped fresh fruits like mango, peaches, or cherries for extra flavor.
- Chocolate Twist: Use chocolate-flavored gelatin and mix in chocolate shavings.
- Vegan Option: Substitute dairy milk with coconut milk and use agar-agar instead of gelatin.
- Sugar-Free Version: Use sugar-free gelatin and replace condensed milk with a sugar-free alternative.
- Layered Mosaic Jelly: Instead of mixing all cubes, layer them for a striped effect.
Conclusion: The Joy of Mosaic Jelly
Mosaic Jelly is more than just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience. Whether served at parties, family gatherings, or enjoyed as a nostalgic treat, its vibrant appearance and creamy taste make it a favorite for all. The simplicity of its preparation and the endless possibilities for customization make it a go-to recipe for those looking to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Try making Mosaic Jelly today, and bring a burst of color and sweetness to your table!