Discover How To Fix Jello That Didn’t Set

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How To Fix Jello That Didn’t Set

Wait! Don’t throw out your Jell-O that did not set. Let’s first explore a few different options for How To Fix Jello That Didn’t Set. Below, you will want to be sure to check out common reasons why your Jell-O did not set up, as well as tips and tricks to fix Jell-O that did not set properly. All this and more below! 

JellO Jigglers random

How To Fix Jello That Did Not Set Properly

Believe it or not, sometimes Jell-O is not set up properly, and you are left trying to figure out how to fix it. Thankfully, there are many ways you can fix Jell-O that did not set up correctly.

Below, we are going to explore several different methods you can use to fix your Jell-O if it did not set up. Please be sure to check out each of the ways you can fix your Jell-O to determine what will work best for you. After all, Jell-O is one delicious treat everyone enjoys, we are happy to help you salvage your Jell-O. 

Can You Mess Up Jello

You might ask can you even mess Jell-O up? And the answer to this is that it is absolutely possible to mess Jell-O up. Unfortunately, in this case, we are speaking from experience.

We have had several instances where Jell-O does not turn out for one reason or another, and today, we are going to explore this topic with you in hopes of helping you fix your Jell-O that has not set properly.

We also hope to help you avoid mistakes in the future that involve your Jell-O not setting up correctly. Make sure to stay tuned for all the details. 

Why is my Jello Still Liquid

Why is my Jell-O still liquid? Your Jell-O has been sitting there for hours in the refrigerator and it’s still not set up. Perhaps this sounds familiar to you, and you are quite frustrated because you need the Jell-O for your upcoming meal. While, there are several different reasons why your Jell-O might still be liquid. Let’s look at some of the common reasons why your Jell-O won’t set and remains a liquid. 

Common Reasons Why Your JELL-O Won’t Set

A few common mistakes can cause your Jell-O to not be set up properly.  In this section, we are going to cover the four most common reasons why your Jell-O will not set up. 

Mistake in the Jello making process

The first reason why your Jell-O may not set up correctly is because of a mistake made in the Jell-O making process. This is one of the common reasons why your Jell-O will not set up. When you are making Jell-O, it is important that you are careful to follow the instructions listed on your box of Jell-O. Read these instructions, and follow them in order, step-by-step, so that you can avoid any possible mistakes. 

Jello Was Not Completely Mixed In

Another common reason why your Jell-O has not set up properly, it’s because the Jell-O packet was not completely mixed in. As you were mixing your Jell-O powder into your water, you must mix until your gelatin fully dissolves. If you have any gelatin that has not been mixed in it will collect on the bottom, and it is not working to help hold your Jell-O together, and ultimately will prevent your Jell-O from setting up correctly. 

Covered Jello

As your Jell-O is sitting in the refrigerator, you will want to avoid covering your Jell-O with plastic wrap until it has set. Once your Jell-O has completely set up, you can then cover it with plastic wrap to allow it to stay fresh in your fridge.

However, if you cover your Jell-O with plastic wrap before the Jell-O has set, you are trapping extra liquid condensation into the Jell-O, which will otherwise evaporate. Covering your Jell-O in plastic wrap before it has set up may cause your gelatin to not set up.

Fruit Enzymes

Some fruits contain enzymes that react with your gelatin and ultimately will not allow your Jell-O to ever fully set as it should. For this reason, there are some specific fruits that you will want to avoid adding to your Jell-O, as when these are added to your Jell-O, your Jell-O will stay liquid and not set up. 

What Fruit Does Not Work In Jello

The specific fruits and vegetables that you should avoid adding to your Jell-O include the following: 

Pineapple
Pineapple
Papaya
Papaya
Mango
Mango
Bananas
Bananas 
Guava
Guava
Kiwi
Kiwi
figs
Figs 
ginger root
Ginger

Why is my Jello not hardening?

Making Jell-O and having it not set up is one of the most frustrating things. We are now going to turn our attention to how you can salvage your Jell-O that did not set, as well as some tips and tricks on how to fix your Jell-O. We hope that these different ideas will help you correct your Jell-O that is not setting up. 

How Do You Salvage Jello That Didn’t Set

Wondering how to go about salvaging Jell-O that did not set up correctly can be very challenging. There are several different things you can try, in order to try to fix the Jell-O you started making, without throwing it out and starting again. 

JellO Jigglers

Tips And Tricks On How To Fix Jello That Did Not Set Properly

#1 Give It Some More Time

Although most Jell-O instructions will say that your Jell-O should be set in approximately two to four hours, it may take longer depending upon your Jell-O, as well as the temperature of the water used. Try letting your Jell-O sit for a little bit longer, in the refrigerator, and see if it will set in another couple of hours. Sometimes Jell-O may take up to 6 hours to fully set. If it has just been two-ish hours, and your Jell-O is still watery, give it some more time, before you get too worried. 

#2 Chill Time May Vary 

The amount of time it takes for your Jell-O to chill, and fully set may vary depending upon the shape of the mold do you are you at the end to set your Jell-O. Instant if you are using a 9 x 13 dish, your Jell-O is going to be thinner and therefore should take less time to fully set. However, on the other hand, if you are using a Jell-O mold, that makes the shape which is thick, in the deep bowl, you are likely to need to allow extra time for your Jell-O to chill. 

#3 Remove the Fruit

Did you know that some fruit included in your Jell-O may actually prevent your Jell-O from setting up? If you are making Jell-O, and it has not been set as it should, try removing the fruit from your Jell-O. By removing the fruit, you may be removing the culprit, which prevents your Jell-O from reacting as it should. 

In some cases, the fruit should be added after your Jell-O has partially set, while other fruit should not be added to your Jell-O at all. Fruit and vegetables that contain high enzymes may prevent your Jell-O from setting up at all. This is why we suggest removing your fruit. 

On the other hand, the fruit that has been added to your Jell-O may also add extra liquid to your Jell-O, throwing off the liquid to gelatin ratio which allows your Jell-O to set up and become somewhat solid. 

For example, if you are adding strawberries to your Jell-O after they have been smashed, it is important that you reduce the amount of liquid included in your Jell-O mixture because your strawberries will add extra juice, therefore you are likely to throw off the balance of liquid to gelatin. 

When adding fruits to your Jell-O that are not high in enzymes, it is a good idea to allow your Jell-O to partially set before adding the fruit. Also, if you are adding fruit that will add a substantial amount of liquid to your Jell-O, it’s a good idea to reduce the amount of liquid added to the gelatin. 

jello in a bowl with spoon

#4 Salvage It

Before getting frustrated and throwing your Jell-O out, you can salvage Jell-O that is not set up. To do this, make sure that your Jell-O has had enough time to chill, and any fruit has been removed from it. If your Jell-O has still not set up, don’t fret, you can reset your Jell-O. 

To salvage your Jell-O that has not been mixed well enough, you can simply melt it back down, and mix it up again. When you melt it back down, be careful that it does not get too hot, and does not come to a boil as it tends to react to heat. 

In order to salvage your Jell-O try reheating it in a double boiler, just until it is melted. Stir the Jell-O mix thoroughly once it is melted, then pour it back into your desired mold before chilling once more. 

#5 Re-do the Jello

The best way to re-do your Jell-O is to boil enough water for one more packet, then stir in your Jell-O packet. Mix for approximately two minutes, to be sure your gelatin is dissolved. You can then add your previous Jell-O attempt. Be sure to stir until combined. 

This method intentionally leaves off the cold water, since this is most likely the reason why your Jell-O did not set the first time around. If you want, you can try adding one-half of the cold water from your box instructions, however, you will want to avoid adding the full amount to your new batch, as it is combined with your Jell-O that flopped previously. 

Once you have added your new mix to the old one, and mixed for at least two minutes, until you see your mixture start to thicken, you can chill your Jell-O to set it once more. 

#5 Mix the Sugar with the Gelatin

If you are making Jell-O from scratch, instead of using a Jell-O brand name packet, you’ll want to be sure to mix your sugar with the gelatin before adding your water. By adding your sugar and gelatin at the same time, you will avoid any lumps, or granules that are not fully mixed into your Jell-O.

#6 Don’t Freeze The Jello

Some ask if Jell-O can be frozen to help speed up the process of the gelatin setting up. Although this might work if you get your timing perfect, it is more likely that it will cause you more problems than help you.

Jell-O does not react as you might assume when frozen. Instead of speeding up the process of setting up your gelatin, it actually tends to result in a loss of elasticity, and you end up with melted, watery, soggy Jell-O. It is best to completely steer clear of the freezer when making Jell-O. 

How To Thicken Jello That Won’t Set

The best way to thicken Jell-O that won’t set up is to boil ¾ cup of water and add that to your Jell-O packet. Stir until your Jell-O packet is completely dissolved. Make sure the gelatin is fully dissolved and not just your sugars. Once dissolved, add ½ cup of cold water to your mixture and stir to combine. You can then add this mixture to any Jell-O that needs to be thickened and is having trouble setting up. 

Will Gelatin Set At Room Temperature

Some may ask if gelatin can set up at room temperature. Typically, Jell-O tends to begin setting in around 70°F. If you have room temperature that is in this temperature range, then your Jell-O may begin setting up at room temperature. However, this will be more of a soft set, and it will not become solid until it has been refrigerated. For more of a solid set, you will want your gelatin to chill at approximately 32°F. 

How Do You Keep Gelatin From Clumping

To keep your gelatin from clumping, first, begin by mixing your gelatin with any sugars and flavoring. If you are using a Jell-O brand packet, it comes mixed together. 

Then, pour your gelatin mixture into the bottom of your bowl, and add boiling water. Stir for at least two minutes, or until your gelatin is fully dissolved. 

When your gelatin is fully dissolved, you should see your mixture start to thicken slightly. To help prevent any clumps, you can use a whisk, or rubber spatula to stir the mixture. 

How do you dissolve gelatin without any lumps

To prevent your Jell-O mixture from getting lumpy, you can mix your gelatin with sugars and flavorings than pour into the bottom of your bowl. Add your boiling water and stir really well so that clumps do not form. Use a whisk or rubber spatula to prevent your mixture from becoming lumpy. 

What’s the best way to add Fruit to Jello?

The best way to add fruits to your Jell-O is to add your fruit after your Jell-O has partly set. It is best to add your fruit and slices so that you are not adding additional liquid to your Jell-O mixture.

JellO Jigglers brick laied

Can You Reheat Jello? Yes, Here’s How & What To Know

Can you reheat jello?

If you are struggling with Jell-O that didn’t completely set up how you would like it too, you might wonder if you can reheat your Jell-O and begin again. The answer to that is yes, you can reheat Jell-O. 

Reheat Jello In A Double Boiler

The best way to reheat Jell-O is to use a double boiler. To do this, you will want to place a pan-filled part of the way with water on your stovetop. Bring this pan to a boil, or light simmer. Then, transfer your Jell-O into another bowl and place that bowl inside of your pan with water. This will allow the warm water to seep through your other bowl and slowly melt your Jell-O.

After your Jell-O has been melted, you can stir your Jell-O again and remove any lumps, or gelatin that was not dissolved the first time around. You can also add a new, stronger mixture of gelatin melted in boiling water to your melted Jell-O. 

How long does Jello take to set

Most instructions say that Jell-O will take approximately 2 to 4 hours to completely set. However, you may want to allow up to six hours for your Jell-O to completely set up as it should. 

Tips for Making Great Jello

Below are a couple of tips that will help you to make Jell-O that turns out great every time. 

Never Actively Boil Jello or Gelatin

When you are making your Jell-O, it is important that you never actually boil the gelatin. Instead boil the water alone, and then pour your water into the gelatin and stir until dissolved. This way the gelatin never actually boils, instead it is just added to hot water. 

Pouring and Setting the Jello Dessert

To help you get the least possible lumps in your Jell-O, it is best to pour your water into the gelatin rather than adding your gelatin into the water. Then, stir your mixture for approximately two minutes until your gelatin is dissolved before adding your cold water. Once your cold water is added, stir to combine, then pour your Jell-O into your desired container. Refrigerate uncovered until your Jell-O is set. 

How do you know when Jello is ready?

Knowing when your Jell-O is ready, can be a challenge if your Jell-O is struggling. The best way to tell if your Jell-O is ready is to slightly jiggle your mold or touch it with your finger. As long as your Jell-O springs back into its original shape, your Jell-O is ready to serve. If your Jell-O appears to be soupy, then your Jell-O is not ready. 

Preparing Store-Bought Jello

To prepare store-bought Jell-O, you will begin by boiling your water, then once it is boiling add your Jell-O packet to a mixing bowl and cover with water. Stir the mixture until it is completely dissolved. This typically takes around two minutes of stirring time. Once dissolved, add cold water, stir to combine, then pour into your desired mold. Refrigerate uncovered for anywhere from 2 to 6 hours. 

Choosing and Layering from the Fruit Options

When you are choosing to add fruit to your mixture, it is important to first allow your Jell-O to set until slightly thickened. Allowing your Jell-O to partly set up takes approximately 1 ½ hour.

When your Jell-O has partially set up, stir in ¾ to one and a half cups of chopped fruit that has been drained. Then continue refrigerating until your Jell-O has fully set. Most packages of Jell-O say right on the box to exclude fresh or frozen pineapple, kiwi, ginger root, papaya, figs, or guava because they cause the gelatin to not set. 

FAQs

How To Fix Jello That Did Not Set Properly?

Learning how to fix Jell-O that didn’t set up properly is actually not real difficult. You can begin by allowing your Jell-O more time to set up, melting it back down and stirring it again, or adding another package of Jell-O to your mixture. For details, see the above sections on tips and tricks for Jell-O that didn’t set. 

Can Jello be reset?

Yes, Jell-O can be reset. For details, please see the above section and how to reset Jell-O. 

Can you eat jello that didn’t set?

If your Jell-O simply didn’t set up completely, then there is no problem with eating it. However, if your Jell-O has separated over time, or there are other signs of it going bad, do not eat it, toss it out instead. 

Can you fix unset Jello?

In many cases, you can fix unset Jell-O. To fix that Jell-O will require time, and may require you to add an additional package of Jell-O or gelatin to your mixture. 

two bowls of jello

How Can I Make Jello Set Faster? 

The best way to make Jell-O set faster is to use the quick set method on your box. This will involve you boiling ¾ cup of water, and combining ice cubes with cold water to cool off your Jell-O mixture faster. Please double check the instructions on your package to be sure they are the same. 

How long does it take for jello to partially set?

For Jell-O that’s partially set in your refrigerator, it typically takes between one and a half hours and two hours. 

How long does it take to slightly thicken jello?

To get your Jell-O slightly thickened, enough so that you can add fruit, you will typically want to chill your Jell-O for approximately one and a half to two hours. 

Does Jello really take 4 hours?

Although many package instructions say that your Jell-O will take approximately four hours to fully set, it may take between two and six hours depending upon the temperature in your refrigerator as well as the mold you have placed your Jell-O into. 

What keeps jello from setting?

In most cases, too much water, incorrect fruit, and gelatin not fully dissolved are the main causes of your Jell-O not setting up. 

What would cause jello not to set?

There are a few different factors that cause your Jell-O not to set up. The main causes include the wrong kind of fruit in your Jell-O, not stirring it enough to fully dissolve your gelatin, and adding too much liquid to your mixture. 

How to fix Jello that won’t set?

Believe it or not, there are a few things you can do to fix your Jell-O that won’t set up. For how to fix Jell-O that didn’t set, try allowing it to chill longer, remove your fruit, or dissolve more Jell-O mixture into boiling water and add it to your Jell-O that will not set. For more details please see the above tips and tricks. 

Why is my jello rubbery on the bottom?

The primary cause of your Jell-O being rubbery on the bottom is that your gelatin was not fully dissolved in your Jell-O. This creates a rubbery texture to the bottom of your Jell-O because as it sets up, your gelatin sinks to the bottom. 

Why is my Jello still liquid?

There can be several different causes as to why your Jell-O may still be a liquid. Perhaps you have added the wrong kinds of fruit, did not thoroughly mix your gelatin into the Jell-O, or added too much liquid. 

Will Jello set if you add too much water?

If you have added too much water, your Jell-O will have difficulty setting up. In most cases, your Jell-O will still remain a liquid. 

What happens if you heat up jello?

Most of the time, when you heat Jell-O up it will actually melt back into a liquid. 

Can you add fruit to jello right away?

For best results, you will want to add fruit to your Jell-O after it has partially set. Allow your Jell-O to chill for one and a half to two hours before adding fruit, then add your fruit and stir into the Jell-O. 

How do you fix jello that didn’t set with fruit?

To Fix Jell-O that didn’t set with your fruit in it, you will want to begin by removing the fruit from your Jell-O. Then, you can allow your Jell-O to chill, and if it still does not set up, see the above for more suggestions. 

How long does it take for Jello with fruit to set?

Jell-O with fruit added to it typically takes between four and six hours to fully set. 

How long should Jello set before adding fruit?

It is recommended that you allow Jell-O to set for one and a half to two hours before adding fruit. 

What fruit should you not put in Jello?

Pineapple, papaya, guava, kiwi, figs, and ginger should not be added to Jell-O. It is also recommended that mango and bananas not be added because of the enzymes they contain. 

Why does fresh pineapple juice prevent Jello from setting?

Fresh pineapple juice will prevent Jell-O from setting because it contains enzymes which causes the gelatin to not react as it should.

Will pineapple set in Jello?

Typically, pineapple will not allow your Jell-O to set. 

Does Jello have to be refrigerated to set?

It is highly recommended that you allow your Jell-O to be refrigerated for it to fully set. 

Will jello set at room temperature?

If left at room temperature, Jell-O will do what is called a soft set. This occurs when your temperature is around approximately 70°F. In order for your Jell-O to be fully set up, you will want to refrigerate it. 

Can you leave jello out overnight?

It is not recommended that you leave Jell-O out overnight. 

Can you make jello in the microwave?

Technically, you could microwave Jell-O, however, it is not recommended. 

Should Jello be covered when setting?

After your Jell-O has fully set up, it can then be covered. Until your gel has fully set, it is not recommended that you cover it. 

Can I put Jello in the freezer to make it set faster?

It is not recommended that you freeze Jell-O to make it set up faster. Although in theory it could work, if it is left too long it will actually have the reverse effect intended. 

Can I use the freezer to set my jello?

It is not recommended that you use the freezer to set your Jell-O. Instead, for best results use your refrigerator to chill your Jell-O. 

Does putting jello in the freezer work?

In putting your Jell-O in the freezer if done perfectly can work, although it can also have the reverse effect if done incorrectly. If left too long, your gelatin can turn to liquid and your whole Jell-O can go bad. 

Can Jello be made with just warm water instead of boiling hot water?

In theory Jell-O can be made using very warm water instead of boiling hot water. However, it can be a challenge to get your gelatin to fully dissolve in water if it is not warm enough. Therefore, it’s recommended to follow the instructions on your box and add boiling water to your gelatin. 

Can you make jello with only cold water?

It is not recommended that you make Jell-O using only cold water. Instead, use a mixture of boiling water and cold water or ice cubes along with your gelatin. 

Can you make jello with warm water?

In theory, you can make Jell-O with very warm water, however, it is sometimes difficult to get your Jell-O to dissolve fully. For best results, follow the instructions on your box and use boiling water. 

Does jello dissolve in cold water?

Jell-O does not dissolve very well in cold water. This is why the box instructions say to use boiling water. 

Why do you add cold water to jello?

Adding cold water to your Jell-O allows your Jell-O to cool off faster, and to speed up the setting process. 

How do you fix Jello that didn’t set up?

There are several different ways you can use To Fix Jello That Didn’t Set up correctly. Determining first why your Jell-O did not set up is important, then, follow one of the methods above to fix your Jell-O that did not set up. 

How do you make jello harden faster?

To make a Jell-O harden faster, you will want to use the speed set or quick set method on your box. This typically involves boiling less water and combining cold water with ice cubes to allow your gelatin to set faster. 

JellO Jigglers plait side

Bottom Line

When it comes right down to it Discovering How To Fix Jello That Didn’t Set, the bottom line is that if you follow the step-by-step instructions on your gelatin, you are likely to get Jell-O that set up just fine.

Simply boil your water then add it to your package of gelatin and stir until dissolved. This typically takes approximately two minutes to fully dissolve your gelatin.

Then, and cold water and chill until your Jell-O is set. If you run into trouble, there are a few different methods you can use which allow you to correct any Jell-O that does not fully set up. 

How to Fix Jell-O That Will Not Set

Before tossing your Jell-O that has not set up like it should, be sure to try some of the above methods to correct your Jell-O that did not set. There are several different things you can try that will help you discover How To Fix Jello That Didn’t Set, so that you do not have to have it all end in disappointment.

Be sure to check out the different methods above. If this article is helpful to you, please leave a comment below and let us know what helped you out the most. We love hearing from you! 

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How To Fix Jello That Did Not Set Properly

Instructions

Give It Some More Time

  • Although most Jell-O instructions will say that your Jell-O should be set in approximately two to four hours, it may take longer depending upon your Jell-O, as well as the temperature of the water used. Try letting your Jell-O sit for a little bit longer, in the refrigerator, and see if it will set in another couple of hours. Sometimes Jell-O may take up to 6 hours to fully set.

Chill Time May Vary

  • The amount of time it takes for your Jell-O to chill, and fully set may vary depending upon the shape of the mold do you are you at the end to set your Jell-O.

Remove the Fruit

  • Did you know that some fruit included in your Jell-O may actually prevent your Jell-O from setting up? If you are making Jell-O, and it has not been set as it should, try removing the fruit from your Jell-O. By removing the fruit, you may be removing the culprit, which prevents your Jell-O from reacting as it should.

Salvage It

  • To salvage your Jell-O that has not been mixed well enough, you can simply melt it back down, and mix it up again.

Re-do the Jello

  • The best way to re-do your Jell-O is to boil enough water for one more packet, then stir in your Jell-O packet. Mix for approximately two minutes, to be sure your gelatin is dissolved. You can then add your previous Jell-O attempt. Be sure to stir until combined.

Mix the Sugar with the Gelatin

  • If you are making Jell-O from scratch, instead of using a Jell-O brand name packet, you’ll want to be sure to mix your sugar with the gelatin before adding your water.

Don’t Freeze The Jello

  • Jell-O does not react as you might assume when frozen. Instead of speeding up the process of setting up your gelatin, it actually tends to result in a loss of elasticity, and you end up with melted, watery, soggy Jell-O.

Preparing Store-Bought Jello

  • To prepare store-bought Jell-O, you will begin by boiling your water, then once it is boiling add your Jell-O packet to a mixing bowl and cover with water. Stir the mixture until it is completely dissolved. This typically takes around two minutes of stirring time. Once dissolved, add cold water, stir to combine, then pour into your desired mold. Refrigerate uncovered for anywhere from 2 to 6 hours.

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Faith
Faith Has been cooking and baking for many years! she loves to share her recipes with the world, and hopes you will enjoy them too!

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