There’s something wonderfully spooky yet playful about bringing a wiggly bowl of Jell-O worms to the Halloween table. They’re not only deliciously sweet and jiggly but also a show-stopping snack that kids (and adults!) can’t help but giggle over. The best part? They’re super easy to make with just a handful of ingredients you probably already have at home.
Perfect for a Halloween movie night or a fun party treat, these Jell-O worms look delightfully creepy but taste absolutely yummy.
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dessert / Snack | 20 minutes | 4 hours (chill time) | 10–12 | ~120 per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 box (6 oz) strawberry Jell-O (or raspberry for a deeper red)
- 3 cups boiling water
- 1 cup heavy cream (for that realistic “wormy” look)
- 2–3 drops green food coloring (optional, for a more earthy tone)
- 100+ plastic straws (flexible bendy straws work best)
- 1 tall container or jar (to hold straws upright)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prepare the straws – Stretch out your bendy straws and place them into your tall container with the bendy side down. This will help create that classic wormy texture.
- Mix the Jell-O – In a large bowl, stir the Jell-O powder into boiling water until fully dissolved.
- Add the cream – Slowly stir in the heavy cream and optional food coloring. The cream gives the worms a realistic two-toned look.
- Fill the straws – Carefully pour the Jell-O mixture into the straws, filling them as much as possible. (Tip: Place the container in a shallow tray to catch spills.)
- Chill – Refrigerate the filled straws for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
- Release the worms – Run warm water quickly over the outside of the straws, then gently squeeze or roll them between your fingers to slide the worms out.
- Serve & spook – Arrange the worms on a plate, sprinkle with crushed chocolate cookies (for “dirt”), and enjoy the squeals of delight!
Helpful Notes & Tips
- No straws? You can use silicone molds or even a shallow dish, then slice into “wormy” strips.
- Storage: Keep leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Mess-free tip: Use a funnel to help pour the Jell-O mixture into the straws.
Recipe Variations
- Sour Worms: Add a splash of lemon juice or sprinkle worms with sour sugar before serving.
- Healthy Twist: Use sugar-free Jell-O and light cream for a lighter version.
- Gummy Upgrade: Add a handful of gummy worms into the “dirt” for double the fun!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve on a platter of crushed Oreos for a dirt-and-worms look.
- Tuck them into small Halloween cups for grab-and-go treats.
- Pair with popcorn and spooky punch for the ultimate movie night snack spread.
Conclusion
Whether you’re planning a haunted house party or simply want to surprise your family with something fun, these Jell-O worms are sure to bring smiles (and maybe a little squeamish laughter). Gather around, share the giggles, and enjoy a treat that’s equal parts creepy and delicious. Happy Halloween snacking!