Knox Blox Recipe: A Fun Treat That Is Always In Style
When it comes to classic recipes, there’s something incredibly comforting about the ones that have stood the test of time. One such gem that you might find tucked away in an old family cookbook is the Knox Blox recipe.
If you grew up in the ’60s, ’70s, or even later, there’s a good chance you’ve encountered these delightful jelly treats. Originating in the 1960s, this recipe was popularized by the Knox Gelatin company, and it has remained a favorite among families for decades.
It’s easy to see why this oldie is still a goodie—after all, I’ve yet to meet a child who doesn’t love these!
The Nostalgia Factor: Knox Blox Recipe in Your Family Cookbook
Knox Blox is one of those recipes that brings a wave of nostalgia with it. If you’re lucky enough to have a well-loved family cookbook like I do, there’s a good chance you’ll find a copy of this recipe scribbled down on a yellowing page, complete with a few spills and stains from past kitchen adventures.
The simplicity of the recipe is part of its charm—just a few ingredients, five minutes preparation and a few hours in the fridge, and you’ve got a treat that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.
The Origins: A 1960s Classic
The story of Knox Blox begins with the Knox Gelatin company in the 1960s. At a time when home cooking and homemade treats were the norm, Knox Gelatin provided a way for families to create fun, colorful desserts at home without breaking the bank.
The recipe for Knox Blox was a hit because it was so versatile. You could make simple squares, or you could get creative by pouring the mixture onto large cookie sheets and cutting out fun shapes with cookie cutters. This versatility made it a staple in households across America.
While these yummy treats are still generally known as “Knox Blox”, there are now more options for commercially available unflavored gelatin powders. So use whatever you have, and don’t feel obliged to seek out a specific brand for this recipe.
Why Knox Blox Are Still a Hit
Knox Blox may have been around for decades, but they’re far from outdated. In fact, they’ve stood the test of time precisely because they’re so adaptable to different occasions and tastes.
At their simplest, these jelly blocks can be cut into squares, perfect for a quick and easy snack. But why stop there? If you’re feeling a bit more creative, pour the mixture onto a large cookie sheet, let it cool, and then use cookie cutters to create fun shapes. Stars, hearts, animals—the possibilities are endless, and kids love the chance to play with their food (in a good way!).
But Knox Blox isn’t just about fun shapes. They’re also a practical option for packing in your kids’ lunches.
Instead of spending extra money on pre-made jello cups, you can pour the Knox Blox mixture into individual-sized sealable containers. These homemade jelly cups have the added benefit of being more stable than regular jello, meaning they’re less likely to melt into a runny mess by the time lunch rolls around.
It’s a small change, but one that can make a big difference when you’re trying to pack a lunch that will actually survive until noon.
Bringing Knox Blox into the Modern Kitchen
Even though the recipe for Knox Blox has been around for ages, there’s no reason it can’t fit into a modern kitchen.
Whether you’re making them as a fun activity with your kids, or you’re looking for a nostalgic treat to share with friends, Knox Blox is a versatile and easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to bring smiles to faces young and old.
You can even experiment with different flavors and colors, layering them to create a rainbow effect, or adding fruit or juice for an extra burst of flavor.
Classic Knox Blox Recipe
54
1.5 inch squares5
minutes5
minutesKnox Blox are a timeless, kid-friendly treat made with Knox Gelatin. Originating in the 1960s, this versatile recipe allows you to create fun, jelly blocks that can be cut into shapes or poured into individual containers for a perfect, melt-resistant snack.
Ingredients
4 envelopes (7 g each) gelatin powder*
3 (3 oz or 85 g) boxes Jello gelatin dessert powder
3 c boiling water
1 cup cold water
Directions
- Place 1 cup cold water into a large bowl and sprinkle the gelatin powder over the top while stirring. Do not add all at once to avoid clumping. Let stand for 1 minute.
- Stir in jello powder.
- Pour in the 3 cups boiling water and stir until completely dissolved.
- Pour into a 9×13 pan (for squares) or a large cookie sheet (for cutouts). Place in refrigerator to cool.
- Let cool 4-5 hours before cutting into blocks or shapes.
Notes
- *If using bulk gelatin powder, one 7 g envelope is equivalent to 2.5 tsp
- Cook time of 5 minutes is time to boil the water!
Conclusion
Knox Blox is more than just a recipe—it’s a piece of history that has brought joy to generations. From its origins in the 1960s with the Knox Gelatin company to its place in modern kitchens, this recipe has proven that some things never go out of style.
Whether you’re making simple squares, cutting out fun shapes, or packing jelly cups for your kids’ lunches, Knox Blox remains a delightful and practical treat. And with less sugar per serving than regular jello, it’s a treat you can feel good about sharing with your family.
So, dust off that old family cookbook, pull out your gelatin packets, and get ready to make some memories with this timeless recipe.
