2-Ingredient Yogurt Jello (Creamy, High-Protein Snack!)

Table of Contents

If there’s one thing that never left my heart, it’s jello. Not the neon wobbly cubes from childhood parties, but the idea of a dessert that feels both light and playful. I grew up in Provence, where sweets were often creamy or tart—not jiggly. But the first time I tasted American-style jello as a teen visiting cousins in Marseille, I was enchanted. Fast-forward to my own kitchen in the U.S., and I’ve created a version I love even more: 2-ingredient yogurt jello.

It’s the perfect union—yogurt brings creaminess and tang, while gelatin provides that tender, satisfying set. And the best part? You only need two things from your fridge to make it happen. No artificial stuff, no long prep time, just a silky, cool dessert that satisfies in the most wholesome way.

I’ve made this during heatwaves when the oven is off-limits, when I needed a high-protein snack that felt indulgent, and even for brunches alongside my no-cook mason jar salads. It’s flexible, fun, and endlessly customizable—and it makes people pause when you say, “Yes, this is jello. But better.”

My First Time Making Yogurt Jello

Like many discoveries in my kitchen, this one began with leftover Greek yogurt and a half-used packet of flavored gelatin. I stirred them together on a whim, unsure if it would even set. But it did—and beautifully. The top was glossy, the texture spoonable but firm, and it tasted like creamy mousse with a fruity finish.

2-ingredient yogurt jello has become my go-to when I want dessert without the sugar crash. It’s also ideal for little hands and grown-up cravings alike. If you’ve ever felt like plain jello was missing something or found yogurt a bit too tart on its own, this is your sweet spot.

Why This 2-Ingredient Recipe Works

It’s all about the balance. The gelatin firms the yogurt into a spoonable, sliceable texture—similar to panna cotta but faster and healthier. Greek yogurt adds richness and a dose of probiotics and protein. Together, they create a treat that’s more satisfying than jello alone and lighter than traditional desserts.

You can use:

• Flavored gelatin (like strawberry or orange) for quick fruit-forward versions
• Unflavored gelatin + honey or maple syrup + puréed fruit for full control over sugar and flavor
• Dairy-free yogurt to keep it vegan-friendly when using agar-agar instead of gelatin

It’s like my healthy cookie dough bark—simple, clever, and so much more than the sum of its parts.

How to Make 2-Ingredient Yogurt Jello

Step-by-Step for the Base Recipe

Making 2-ingredient yogurt jello takes just a few minutes of hands-on time and one mixing bowl. It’s ideal for hot days, busy weeks, or when you want to prep a healthy dessert without baking or blending.

What you need:

• 2 cups of yogurt (plain or Greek-style works best)
• 1 packet of flavored gelatin (like strawberry, orange, or lemon)

How to do it:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk your yogurt until smooth. Set aside.
2. Prepare the gelatin as directed on the package (usually dissolve in 1 cup hot water, then add 1 cup cold water).
3. Slowly pour the dissolved gelatin into the yogurt, whisking continuously to combine.
4. Pour the mixture into a glass dish or mold.
5. Chill for 2–3 hours, or until fully set.

That’s it. Five minutes of prep, and you’ve got a creamy, colorful dessert that feels like a cross between jello and mousse.

If using unflavored gelatin, dissolve it first, then mix with sweetened yogurt or add a drizzle of maple syrup and fruit puree for flavor.

I love using the base of this jello as a creamy component in layered parfaits, paired with fruit salsa and granola for a no-bake summer dessert.

Flavor Variations and Customizations

This recipe is just the beginning. Once you try it, you’ll want to make a dozen different versions. Here are a few of my favorite combos:

• Mango + Coconut Yogurt: Use mango gelatin with coconut yogurt for a tropical twist.
• Strawberry + Vanilla Greek Yogurt: A classic pairing that’s light and nostalgic.
• Blueberry + Plain Yogurt: Add a spoon of blueberry preserves for extra depth.
• Raspberry + Honey Yogurt: Tangy, sweet, and perfect for layering.

Want to create a visual showstopper? Try layering two flavors. Chill the first layer halfway, pour the second gently on top, and refrigerate until firm. It’s a fun way to create a striped or gradient look—something I like to serve for brunch alongside my high-protein snack boxes.

Or swirl in mashed berries before chilling for a ripple effect that looks like you spent way more time than you actually did.

Tips, Troubleshooting & Storage

Why Your Yogurt Jello Didn’t Set Right

If your 2-ingredient yogurt jello turns out too runny or oddly grainy, don’t worry—it’s a common learning curve. Let’s troubleshoot the most likely culprits so you can fix it next time.

• Gelatin wasn’t fully dissolved: Always mix gelatin in hot water and stir until completely clear before adding it to yogurt. Any undissolved crystals can prevent a smooth set.
• Mixture was too hot: Let gelatin mixture cool slightly (but not solidify) before whisking it into yogurt. Overheating can curdle the yogurt.
• Wrong yogurt texture: Thin yogurts may not set as firmly. For best results, use full-fat Greek yogurt or at least 2% milkfat.
• Poor whisking: If you don’t whisk thoroughly, the gelatin can settle unevenly, leaving rubbery layers or watery spots.

If something goes wrong, don’t toss it yet. You can blend it and turn it into a creamy yogurt mousse—delicious with churro cheesecake bar crumbles on top!

How to Store, Slice, and Serve

This jello stores beautifully and can be prepped days in advance. Here’s how to keep it fresh and firm:

• Chill time: Let it set in the fridge for at least 2–3 hours. Overnight is even better.
• Storage: Keep it covered in an airtight container to prevent drying out or absorbing fridge odors.
• Shelf life: Best eaten within 4–5 days. After that, the texture may begin to loosen.

Want cleaner slices? Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wipe between cuts.

Serving ideas:

• Layer squares into a parfait with granola, or top with fresh berries and a dollop of coconut whip.
• Cut into cubes and serve in a clear dish like a jelly “board” alongside your brownie balls.
• Freeze for 10 minutes before slicing if your fridge is on the softer side.

Once set, this jello is surprisingly portable—perfect for lunchboxes, brunch boards, or a post-yoga snack with a few spoonfuls of cottage cheese ice cream.

Nutrition, Benefits & Fun Add-Ins

Is Yogurt Jello Actually Healthy?

Absolutely—and that’s what makes 2-ingredient yogurt jello such a game-changer. It’s light, refreshing, and made with simple, nourishing ingredients. Depending on your yogurt and gelatin choices, it can easily fit into high-protein, low-sugar, or even gut-healthy diets.

Here’s why it works so well:

• High in protein: Especially if using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free, protein-fortified version
• Low in sugar: Flavored gelatin adds just enough sweetness—opt for sugar-free if needed
• Probiotic-friendly: Yogurt delivers gut-loving live cultures (just avoid overheating it)
• Filling but light: It’s satisfying without feeling heavy, perfect as a snack or dessert

Compared to traditional jelly desserts, this version offers a beautiful balance between taste and nutrition. It’s a great swap for ice cream or pudding cups—especially when you want something quick and cool, like key lime pie overnight oats without the prep.

Add Fruit, Crunch, or Gut-Boosting Extras

The beauty of this jello is that you can start with two ingredients and go as far as your imagination (and pantry) allows. Here are a few of my favorite healthy upgrades:

• Diced strawberries, blueberries, or mango: Stir into the yogurt before adding gelatin for bursts of fresh flavor
• Chia seeds or flaxseeds: Add 1–2 tsp for extra fiber and omega-3s
• Granola layer: Sprinkle a thin layer at the bottom or top before chilling
• Collagen powder: Stir into gelatin mixture for added skin and joint support
• Lemon zest or mint: Brighten the flavor naturally

For something more dessert-like, swirl in a spoonful of natural nut butter or top chilled jello squares with melted dark chocolate before slicing. I often serve it as a chilled square next to a little pot of fruit salsa and coconut cream for a “deconstructed parfait” feel.

FAQ: 2-Ingredient Yogurt Jello

Can you mix yogurt into jello?
Yes! Mixing yogurt into prepared gelatin creates a creamy, mousse-like texture that sets beautifully in the fridge.

How to make yogurt with 2 ingredients?
For yogurt itself: use milk and a yogurt starter. But for 2-ingredient yogurt jello, all you need is yogurt and prepared gelatin.

Can you mix gelatin into yogurt?
Absolutely. Dissolve the gelatin completely before mixing it into yogurt to prevent clumps and help it set properly.

Can I make jelly with yogurt?
Yes. Yogurt adds creaminess and tang to traditional jelly, turning it into a smooth, sliceable treat like jello mousse.

Conclusion

2-ingredient yogurt jello is the ultimate no-fuss dessert—simple, satisfying, and surprisingly nutritious. It’s become a staple in my fridge for those moments when I need something sweet but light, creamy but clean. Whether you swirl in fruit, sprinkle granola, or layer it with your favorite toppings, this jello is the kind of recipe that adapts to your cravings and lifestyle.

It’s the kind of joyful, make-ahead dish I love sharing—just like my healthy cookie dough bark or no-cook salads. Now it’s your turn—grab your yogurt, your favorite gelatin, and start whisking.

For more feel-good meals like this one, visit the Recipes section, where rustic meets modern in every dish or Join our vibrant Facebook group, Today’s Recipe, Tomorrow’s Favorite, and share your best brunch creations!

Print