These fun and fruity Jello shots are such an easy “cocktail” to make! And, because they’re served in cups, they’re a breeze to make a day or two ahead of your party and store. This recipe is made with vodka plus our favorite Jello flavors –strawberry, lemon, grape and orange. But you can substitute absolutely any flavor you love instead.
Pssst…Jello isn’t just for drinks! You’ll want to try this Jello poke cake or no-bake strawberry Jello pie as well.
Vodka Jello Shots Recipe:
Jello shots cups only take a few minutes to put together before chilling, so they’re a great option when you’re busy trying to put all your preparations in place.
I love the bright colors and all the delicious fruity flavor combinations. The recipe is basic and you can use it to create many great tasting flavors for any event. I love making strawberry, lemon, grape, and orange. But you could truly make any Jello flavor you love plus mix them up into fun new pairs. For a party or gathering, you could even make colors that match your decor or your favorite sports team.
Some of my favorite Jello shot flavors include:
- Berry Jello with lemon or berry acai vodka
- Lemon Jello with lemon vodka
- Lime Jello with lime vodka
- Strawberry Jello with vanilla vodka
I usually serving our simple Jello shots in mini 2-ounce cups with lids (affiliate link). For Halloween, you could also make Jello shot syringes for a great themed option. You can grab the syringes on Amazon (affiliate link).
Ingredients needed for Jello Shots:
- 3 oz jello gelatin mix, varying flavors
- 1 cup water, boiling
- ½ cup of cold water
- ½ vodka, plain or flavored
- 2 oz plastic containers with lids or shot glasses
- Whipped cream, optional
- Fruit toppings, optional
How to Make Jello Shots
In a small pan, boil one cup of water. Once boiling, add in jello gelatin mix and whisk until completely dissolved.
Remove pan from the stove and pour the mixture into a separate pourable container. This can be either a glass measuring cup or a small pitcher.
Begin by whisking in cold water, and then add in vodka. Once combined, pour finished mixture into 2-ounce containers or any plastic shot glass until almost full.
Pro Tip: Allow the dissolved gelatin mixture to cool slightly before adding in vodka. This will prevent alcohol from boiling out, resulting in a weaker shot. By pouring the mixture into a separate container, this will allow the mixture to cool to a sufficient temperature and make it easier to pour into your containers!
How Long Does It Take for Jello Shots to Set?
Allow to set in the fridge for a minimum of one hour.
For Ideal Consistency: Two to three hours is really ideal for great consistency. When you’re ready to serve, you could even top with a dollop of whipped cream and fruit!
For Ideal Storage: You can use baking sheets or dishes to stack your Jello shot cups on while they’re chilling so that you can stack them in the fridge.
Fun Jello Shot Flavor Combination Ideas:
If you’re feeling fancy, feel free to combine two flavors together!
Fill a 2-ounce container up halfway, allow to set in the freezer for about 20 minutes, just to help it firm up a little faster, and then pour on second flavor. Allow mixture to set in fridge until completely set.
What alcohol is good for jello shots?
Traditionally, Jello shots are made with vodka. You could also make them with Schnapps or rum if you'd prefer.
How Many Shots are in a Jello Shot?
About four Jello shots will equal one regular shot.
How to Store Jello Shots
If you have any leftover Jello shots, you can store them in the fridge for up to a week with their lids tightly on. You can make them 1-2 days ahead of your party before serving, but make sure you are storing the containers with the lids on.
Can You Freeze Jello Shots?
No, I don't find that Jello shots freeze well because of the gelatin and alcohol. While you can pop in the freezer for a few minutes to help speed along the setting process, you shouldn't store in the freezer after they're done.'
More drinks our readers love:
- These mango mojitos are a signature drink.
- These Bailey’s & Vodka Whipped Cream with Coffee Ice Cubes are so delicious!
- Plus, test out these amazing cocktails and mocktails for your next party.
More Easy Recipes
I hope you enjoy these fun and easy Jello shots at your next big party!
Jello Shots
Ingredients
- 3 oz jello gelatin mix varying flavors
- 1 cup water boiling
- ½ cup cold water
- ½ vodka plain or flavored
- 2 oz plastic containers with lids or shot glasses
- Whipped cream optional
- Fruit toppings optional
Instructions
- In a small pan, boil one cup of water.
- Once boiling, add in jello gelatin mix and whisk until completely dissolved. Remove pan from the stove and pour the mixture into a separate pourable container. This can be either a glass measuring cup or a small pitcher.
- Begin by whisking in cold water, and then add in vodka.
- Once combined, pour finished mixture into 2 oz containers or any plastic shot glass until almost full.
- Allow to set in the fridge for a minimum of 1 hour, preferably 2-3 hours.
Love making these jello shots when we host game night at our house. Watermelon jello shots are my favorite!
Perfect treat for adult party ideas.