For The Love of Jello Molds

Quivery, shimmery Jello remains a lunchbox staple and a flavorful ingredient in Jello shots, and July 12 just happens to be “Eat your Jello day.” But long before it became a prepared packaged food or paired up with alcohol in bar drinks, flavored molded gelatins with sweet or savory “sinkers” and “floaters” were popular dishes at ladies’ luncheons, potlucks, and more. Even if aspics and congealed salads are no longer the darlings of parties, those vintage Jello molds still hold our interest. Hold that mold while we take a quick stroll down memory lane, back to where they originated.

Before there were molds, there was Jell-O. Developed in Le Roy, New York in 1897, Jello-O is the best-known name brand of flavored gelatin. Celebrities including Jack Benny and Bill Cosby promoted jiggly jello to housewives angling for “hostess with the mostest” stature, and moms seeking to please picky toddler palates.

In 1904, the company began creating, producing and marketing stamped molds to help sell their product. And intrepid cooks latched onto them, masterminding dainty salad rings “frosted” with dollops of mayonnaise and cottage cheese, savory salads molded into fish shapes complete with eyes made from olives and radishes, and even multi-layered colorful, whimsical towers prominently featured in food buffets. Suffice it to say, gelatin mold shapes range from small and simple, to large and intricate.

Where will you find vintage jello molds?

The first place to look is through your own cabinets (or your parents or grandparents cabinets…or maybe the boxes in the garage, basement or attic – it’s probably been a while since they were used.) Ask around – family members may be happy to pawn (I mean pass) them off to someone who will use and appreciate them.

Also scour antique shops, flea markets, estate sales and even online platforms like eBay and Etsy. The most common aluminum molds are often available for modest prices, and even better, they almost always come in lots of 4 or more – perfect for displaying or crafting.

How to care for them?

Hand-washing is best. Dishwashers can leave water spots and eventually pit and corrode them.

Should you use them for food?

Technically, they are food safe, but many of us have concerns about our food coming into direct contact with aluminum. So we prefer up-cycling these blasts from the past in new and fun ways; here are some ideas to use them in your decor:

1. Seasonal decorations. Simple rings make cute mini wreaths. Deeper molds can be transformed into pumpkins.

2. Pop in a pincushion and voila! You’ve got a clever, unique gift for a favorite stitcher. (Maybe even a gift to yourself!)

3. Tiny succulents need tiny planters, and jello molds can fill the bill.

4. Curate your tiny collectibles (or just organize your desk.)

5. Add a wick and wax for a cute candle container.

Photo courtesy of Pinterest.