Halloween jello worms

I know we are a little early for halloween, but I wanted to make sure this got into my collection because it was such a fun recipe.  Definitely worth the effort.

Jello “blood” Worms


Make at least a day ahead of time, very time consuming

100 flexible straws (place flexible side down in the container)
An empty cleaned quart milk or orange juice carton to hold straws (the taller the better, the straws will fill to the height of the container)
1 6 oz box raspberry or grape jello (LARGE BOX)
3 packets unflavored jello
3 cups boiling water
¾ cup whipping cream
12-15 drops green food coloring
Wax paper

Combine gelatins in bowl and add boiling water. Mix till completely dissolved. Chill till lukewarm about 20 min
Meanwhile gently pull straws to extend to full length. Place in container flexible side down and wrap loosely with rubber band to hold them together Blend cream and food coloring with jello mixture and pour into container filling straws Chill until firm 8 hours or cover and chill up to 2 days

Pull out straws or tear away paper carton from the straws. Pull straws apart. Run hot tap water for about 2 seconds over 3-4 straws at a time.
Starting at the empty end push worms from straws with a rolling pin or use your fingers
Lay worms on wax paper lined baking sheet. Cover and chill at least one hour before serving or up to 2 days.

I doubled the recipe and used a half gallon carton.  Then I used half for each of two parties we planned.  Getting the worms out of the straws is difficult at first, but you get the hang of it.  It does take time though, so plan ahead.  They ended up being a fun addition to our halloween last year!