Go Back

Grossly Fun Brain Mold

This spooky dessert transforms unflavored gelatin and colorful fruit juices into a grotesque, brain-like shape with a slimy, translucent appearance. The dish involves dissolving gelatin in warm juice, layering colors, and chilling until set, resulting in a jiggly, eerie centerpiece perfect for Halloween or themed parties. Its final texture is wobbly and gooey, mimicking a gross but edible brain.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Course Main Course
Cuisine Halloween
Servings 8
Calories 50 kcal

Equipment

  • Silicone brain mold or silicone cake pan
  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Dropper or small spoon
  • Plastic wrap

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin sprinkled over cold water to bloom
  • 1 cup cold water for blooming gelatin
  • 1 cup red fruit juice cherry, cranberry, or pomegranate
  • 1 cup blueberry or black currant juice adds eerie tint
  • 1 teaspoon vegetable glycerin optional, for glossy finish
  • few drops food coloring red and blue
  • optional edible glitter for slime effect

Instructions
 

  • Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over the cold water in a small bowl and let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes spongy and bloomed.
  • Heat the red and blueberry juices in a saucepan over low heat until warm and fragrant, avoiding boiling. Once the mixture is steaming, remove from heat.
  • Add the bloomed gelatin to the warm juice mixture, stirring constantly until fully dissolved and the mixture is clear and slightly thickened. This takes about 2-3 minutes.
  • Drop a few drops of food coloring into the mixture, testing with a toothpick until you reach the desired intensity. Remember, less is more at this stage.
  • If using, stir in a splash of vegetable glycerin and a sprinkle of edible glitter to add a slimy, shimmering effect.
  • Pour the mixture slowly into your silicone mold, filling it carefully to avoid air bubbles. Gently tap the mold on the counter to settle the liquid evenly.
  • Let the mold sit at room temperature for 15 minutes, then transfer it to the fridge to chill for at least 4 hours, or until the gelatin is fully set and jiggles like a brain.
  • Once set, dip the mold briefly in warm water to loosen the edges, then carefully invert it onto a plate. Handle gently to maintain the shape.
  • Your grossly fun brain mold is ready to serve! Slice or display whole for a creepy, gelatinous centerpiece that’s sure to delight and gross out your guests.

Notes

For a more realistic brain texture, you can layer different colors or add more glitter. Be gentle when unmolding, as gelatin can be delicate.