Champagne Jelly with Berries

Name: Champagne Jelly with Berries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Champagne; 1/4 cup sugar; 2 teaspoons powdered gelatin; 1/2 cup water; 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries); Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Champagne Jelly with Berries for special occasions! This recipe elevates any gathering with its sparkling flair and delicious fruitiness. The process is simple, yet the presentation is stunning and elegant. You can serve it as a refreshing dessert or a delightful palate cleanser between courses. With a balance of sweetness and acidity, this jelly is a unique twist that will impress your guests. I find that the bright colors of the berries combined with the glimmering jelly make it a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:13:10.458Z

Creating Champagne Jelly with Berries was a joyful experience that turned out to be a highlight of my recent dinner party. I discovered that the key to achieving the perfect jelly lies in the right ratio of champagne to gelatin, ensuring a delicate balance that allows the bubbly character to shine through without being overwhelming. I used fresh strawberries and blueberries, which added not just flavor but a vibrant visual appeal to the dessert.

One tip I found invaluable is to let the jelly set overnight. This gives it ample time to firm up, resulting in a smooth texture that makes each spoonful feel luxurious. The next day, when I garnished it with mint leaves, it looked even more elegant. It was a true showstopper that received rave reviews from my guests!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Effervescent flavor that dances on your palate
Visually stunning with vibrant berries
A sophisticated touch for any gathering

      

Texture and Flavor Profile

The Champagne Jelly's texture is light and airy, contrasting beautifully with the plump, juicy berries. When making the jelly, ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved; this creates a smooth consistency that holds its shape beautifully. You'll know it's ready when it gently wobbles without slumping over. The effervescence from the Champagne adds a refreshing note, while the sweetness from the sugar balances the natural tartness of the berries. Consider using a brut Champagne for a less sweet option, allowing the fruit's flavors to shine through.

The combination of mixed berries brings a range of flavors, from the sweet strawberries to the tartness of raspberries, creating a delightful medley in each spoonful. For a variation, try using citrus fruits like mandarin slices or edible flowers for a unique twist. Keep in mind that the quality of your Champagne matters; opt for one you enjoy drinking, as its flavor will directly impact the jelly. Serving this alongside a light sorbet can enhance the overall refreshment factor.

Serving Suggestions

When ready to serve, choose elegant glasses or molds that allow the beautiful colors of the jelly and berries to be showcased. This presentation elevates the dining experience and adds sophistication to any table setting. For an extra dash of elegance, consider pairing the jelly with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of mascarpone cheese; the creaminess contrasts with the light, gelatinous jelly perfectly. Arranging the glasses on a decorative tray can create a stunning centerpiece for your special occasion.

If you're looking to serve this dessert at a larger gathering, consider preparing individual portions. This not only enhances presentation but also makes it easier for guests to enjoy without the need for dishware. Additionally, you can scale this recipe up by simply doubling or tripling the ingredients, keeping the same ratios. Just remember to allow more time for the jelly to set as the volume increases.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Champagne Jelly:

Ingredients

1 cup Champagne
1/4 cup sugar
2 teaspoons powdered gelatin
1/2 cup water
1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start making your Champagne Jelly!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your fabulous Champagne Jelly with Berries:

Prepare the gelatin

In a small bowl, combine the powdered gelatin with 1/4 cup of cold water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it blooms.

Combine champagne and sugar

In a saucepan, heat the remaining 1/2 cup of water and sugar over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and stir in the champagne.

Mix gelatin

Once the champagne mixture is cool but not set, add the bloomed gelatin and stir well until fully dissolved.

Add berries

In serving glasses or a mold, layer the mixed berries and pour the champagne mixture over them. Make sure the berries are evenly distributed.

Chill

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight until fully set.

Serve

Garnish with mint leaves before serving and enjoy the refreshing delight!

With these simple steps, you're ready to impress your guests!

Pro Tips

For a more intense berry flavor, consider lightly macerating the berries with a touch of sugar before adding them to the jelly.

Ingredient Insights

The use of Champagne not only infuses the jelly with a unique flavor but also contributes to its sparkling appearance. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, consider using sparkling grape juice or non-alcoholic sparkling wine as an alternative. Just ensure the alternative is sweetened enough to balance the overall flavor, enhancing the jelly’s natural sweetness without being overpowering.

Granulated sugar is commonly used, but you can swap this for honey or agave syrup if you're looking for a less refined option. Keep in mind that these substitutes may alter the final sweetness level slightly, so adjust to taste during the cooking process. When adding the gelatin, avoid using too much heat as it can affect the gelling properties; a gentle stir and gradual heating are key.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Champagne Jelly can be prepared a day in advance, which allows the flavors to meld and develop nicely in the refrigerator. Once fully set, cover the jelly with plastic wrap to prevent any odors from permeating it. If you need to store leftovers, they can last in the refrigerator for up to three days, but the texture may start to change slightly as the jelly begins to break down over time.

For a fun twist, consider freezing the jelly in ice cube trays. These can be used as festive additions to drinks or desserts later. However, once frozen, the gelatin texture may alter slightly, so they are best used in mixed drinks rather than standalone servings. Keeping extras in a sealed container will ensure they maintain their flavors and can be enjoyed whenever you desire.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use non-alcoholic champagne?

Yes, non-alcoholic sparkling wine works great in this recipe.

→ How long does the jelly last?

It should be consumed within 3-4 days if stored in the refrigerator.

→ Can I use other fruits?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other berries or stone fruits like peaches.

→ Is this recipe suitable for kids?

You can replace champagne with a non-alcoholic variety for a kid-friendly version.