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Cherry Coke Jello Shots

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a close up shot of Cherry Coke Jello Shots stacked on top of each other
Cherry Coke jello shots are the perfect addition to your next party, blending the iconic flavors of Coca-Cola and cherry jello with a touch of rum for a fun and flavorful adult dessert.
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Table of Contents
  1. Cherry Coke Jello Shots Ingredients
  2. Substitutions and Additions
  3. How To Make This Cherry Coke Jello Shots Recipe
  4. How To Serve
  5. Storage
  6. Why We Love This Recipe
  7. Frequently Asked Questions
  8. More Recipes You’ll Love
  9. JUMP TO RECIPE

Get ready to indulge in our Cherry Coke jello shots that combine the classic flavors of cola with a delightful boozy twist. This nostalgic treat is a playful adult version of a childhood favorite, ideal for gatherings and parties.

a close up shot of Cherry Coke Jello Shots stacked on top of each other

Cherry Coke Jello Shots Ingredients

Cherry Coke Jello Shots raw ingredients that are labeled
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Coca-Cola takes the spotlight, infusing these shots with its distinct cola flavor, providing a nostalgic and fizzy base that forms the foundation of this delightful concoction. 

The bright red cherry jello brings the sweet and tangy essence of cherries, adding a burst of fruity flavor and a vibrant, eye-catching color. 

Our choice of spiced rum elevates the shots, infusing them with warmth and depth, and let’s not forget the finishing touch – maraschino cherries. 

You’ll need:

  • 3 cups of Coca-Cola, divided into 1 cup and 2 cups
  • 1 (6-ounce) box of cherry jello mix 
  • 1 cup of rum (we used spiced rum)
  • Maraschino cherries, for garnish

PRO TIP:

Use up to 1½ cups of alcohol for a stronger jello shot. For a lighter jello shot, you can use additional cold water or Coke and less alcohol. You need four cups total of liquid to combine with the jello mixture.

Substitutions and Additions

COCA-COLA: If you’re looking for a different cola flavor, feel free to experiment with various cola brands for a unique twist. 

For a non-alcoholic version, replace rum with additional cola or cherry soda.

CHERRY JELLO MIX: Want to switch up the fruitiness? Try other fruit-flavored jello mixes like raspberry or strawberry for a fun variation.

RUM: While spiced rum adds a delightful kick, you can opt for coconut rum for a tropical twist or vodka for a cleaner taste.

MARASCHINO CHERRIES: Get creative with your garnish by using fresh cherries or citrus twists for a burst of fresh flavor.

How To Make This Cherry Coke Jello Shots Recipe

Making these fun jello shots is easy to do and always a welcome treat at a party. Let’s have a look at the step-by-step instructions.

OUR RECIPE DEVELOPER SAYS

To make a layered look, combine half of the package of jello with one cup of boiling water. Stir until dissolved. Mix in a half cup of rum and half cup of cold water. Divide among the jello shot cups and chill until set.

Mix the remaining jello mixture with one cup of hot Coke until dissolved. Stir in a half cup of rum and a half cup more of Coke. Bring to room temperature. Pour over the set cherry jello layers. Chill until set.

STEP ONE: In a medium bowl or large (4-cup) measuring cup with a spout, heat one cup of Coke until boiling or nearly boiling.

STEP TWO: Sprinkle the jello powder into the hot liquid and whisk until completely dissolved. The mixture may bubble a little.

jello powder sprinkled into the liquid and whisked together

STEP THREE: Stir in the remaining two cups of cold Coke and the rum.

coke stirred into the jello powder mixture

STEP FOUR: Pour mixture into plastic shot glasses.

jello mixture poured into shot cups

STEP FIVE: Transfer jello shots to the refrigerator and chill for four hours until set.

PRO TIP:

The jello shots may firm up faster than four hours. If you are using shallower shot glasses/cups and if you use icy cold liquid, they will not take as long to set.

STEP SIX: Top each jello shot with a maraschino cherry before serving.

PRO TIP:

Keep jello shots refrigerated until consuming. They will start to liquefy in the summer heat.

jello shots topped with cherry

How To Serve

Cherry Coke jello shots are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a playful party snack or dessert at your next event.

Add a few appetizers, including our stuffed mushrooms, crockpot little smokies, and cucumber bites

They would also be fun to serve with a platter of dessert treats, such as our brownies and lemon bars.

For more jello shot recipes, check out our Fireball jello shots and peach jello shots.

Storage

Whether you’re planning to make these ahead or have leftovers to preserve, here’s what you need to know: 

MAKE AHEAD: While you can prepare the mixture ahead of time, it’s best to fill the shot glasses just before serving to maintain the perfect texture.

IN THE FRIDGE: Store your cherry cola jello shots in the fridge for up to seven days, covering them if the glasses lack individual lids.

IN THE FREEZER: Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture and flavor of the shots.

Why We Love This Recipe

We think this is a great recipe to whip up when you are entertaining. Here’s why:

NOSTALGIC TWIST: Our Cherry Coke jello shots transport you back to childhood while giving you a playful, adult experience.

VERSATILE FUN: These shots can be served at various events, making them a go-to party pleaser.

UNIQUE FLAVOR: The combination of cola and cherries creates a taste that’s both familiar and extraordinary.

a close up shot of Cherry Coke Jello Shots stacked on top of each other

Our Cherry Coke jello shots are a delightful blend of nostalgia and adult fun. With the iconic taste of Coca-Cola combined with sweet cherries and a hint of rum, these shots are bound to be a hit at any gathering or party.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Diet Coke and sugar-free jello for a lower-calorie version? 

You can swap in Diet Coke and sugar-free jello in place of regular Coke for a mostly sugar-free alternative.

Can I use a different type of rum? 

Feel free to experiment with different rum varieties to find your favorite flavor combination.

Can I make these shots non-alcoholic? 

Just omit the rum and replace it with more Coca-Cola for a booze-free version.

How long does it take for the shots to set? 

They’ll firm up in about four hours, but shallower shot glasses or colder liquid may speed up the process.

Can I freeze these shots? 

Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the texture and taste.

What can I use as a garnish instead of maraschino cherries? 

Get creative! Try fresh cherries, citrus twists, or even colorful sprinkles.

Can I use a different type of cola? 

Experiment with various cola brands to find the flavor you prefer.

Are these shots strong? 

You can adjust the alcohol content to your liking by using more or less rum, so you’re in control of the strength.

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a close up shot of Cherry Coke Jello Shots stacked on top of each other

Cherry Coke Jello Shots

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Cherry Coke jello shots are the perfect addition to your next party, blending the iconic flavors of Coca-Cola and cherry jello with a touch of rum for a fun and flavorful adult dessert.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings 24

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups Coca-Cola
  • 6 ounces cherry jello mix
  • 1 cup rum, we used spiced rum
  • Maraschino cherries, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • In a medium bowl or large (4-cup) measuring cup with a spout, heat 1 cup of Coke until boiling or nearly boiling.
  • Sprinkle the jello powder into the hot liquid and whisk until completely dissolved. The mixture may bubble a little.
  • Stir in the remaining 2 cups of cold Coke and the rum.
  • Pour into plastic shot glasses.
  • Transfer jello shots to the refrigerator and chill for 4 hours until set.
  • Just before serving, top each jello shot with a maraschino cherry.

Notes

  • Use up to 1½ cups of alcohol for a stronger jello shot. For a lighter jello shot, you can use additional cold water or Coke and less alcohol. You need four cups total of liquid to combine with the jello mixture.
  • To make a layered look, combine half of the package of jello with one cup of boiling water. Stir until dissolved. Mix in a half cup of rum and half cup of cold water. Divide among the jello shot cups and chill until set. Mix the remaining jello mixture with one cup of hot Coke until dissolved. Stir in a half cup of rum and a half cup more of Coke. Bring to room temperature. Pour over the set cherry jello layers. Chill until set.
  • The jello shots may firm up faster than four hours. If you are using shallower shot glasses/cups and if you use icy cold liquid, they will not take as long to set.
  • Keep jello shots refrigerated until consuming. They will start to liquefy in the summer heat.

Nutrition

Calories: 61kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 34mg | Potassium: 1mg | Sugar: 9g | Calcium: 1mg | Iron: 0.05mg
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Proudly Prepared by the Spaceships Kitchen

This recipe was developed, tested, cooked and photographed by the Spaceships Kitchen. From our dinner table to yours, we hope you think it's out of this world!

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