As a mom of two finicky kids, I am constantly looking for new things for snacks and lunches that the kids will like. Around here, they will like something a lot for awhile, get bored with it, then want to try something new. This not only keeps me on my toes, it keeps my kitchen busy!

Something my oldest loves to have in his lunches or as an afternoon snack is jello. Although I'm not opposed to buying the individual boxes from the store, they're not necessarily very budget friendly when you use them regularly, even when they're on sale. The other great thing about making jello from home is the ability to make an unlimited amount of flavors, or use items that are in your long-term food storage.

This is a fun recipe that the kids can help with, have them choose the flavors or mix the ingredients. I've found the more involved the kids are in the kitchen, the more likely they are to eat what has been made. Even the little ones can have a small task :)

Kid Friendly Kool-Aid Jello Recipe, Long-Term Food Storage Friendly

Ingredients: (Makes 6, 4 oz servings)

• 1 package of Kool-Aid, flavor of your choice (You can use any powdered drink mix from your long-term food storage if you don't have Kool-Aid)

• 1 Cup white sugar

• 2 Quarts of water 

• 1 Tablespoon Gelatin powder -We used all natural beef gelatin we bought in bulk. Gelatin has many beneficial uses and is a great addition to your long-term food storage if you don't already have some, you can get it here (Affiliate Link)

• *Disposable 4 oz cups with lids. Optional, but we love them for tossing into lunches. The 4 oz size holds just enough for a single serving of jello. We got ours from a restaurant supply company locally, but you can order them here (Affiliate Link)

Directions:

1. Following instructions on the package of Kool-Aid, mix together Kool-Aid mix, sugar and water in a large bowl or pitcher. (You'll only use 2 cups of the Kool-Aid for this recipe, so enjoy the rest or make another batch!
2. Pour one cup of Kool-Aid into a saucepan on the stove. Heat Kool-Aid on medium heat until warm.
3. Slowly sprinkle in Gelatin powder, whisking as you add it. (Pouring it in all at once will result in clumps that won't break up)
4. Keep whisking mixture until Kool-Aid is hot, but not boiling
5. Remove saucepan from stove and set on a hot pad, add 1 cup of cold Kool-Aid and whisk to combine
6. Pour finished jello mixture into cups or pan
7. Allow to set up in the fridge for at least 2 hours
8. Enjoy!

If you make this recipe, please share photos with our Facebook group, we'd love to see them!