Ultimate Jello Shots Recipe

If you’re looking for a fun, easy-to-make drink that tastes great and looks even better, look no further than our how-to-make jello shots guide! It’s perfect for parties or any occasion.

jello shots - stacks of different colored jello shots
jello shot recipe - close up photo of jello shots

No one ever said jello shots had to be boring! Not only can you make simple and delicious jello shots, but you can also make them in custom colors with this easy how-to.

We are definitely no strangers to the classic jello shot cups! That said, we do like to pride ourselves on spicing them up a bit, like our champagne jello shots.

Rather than plain old berry blue jello powder and plain plastic cups, we prefer giving them a twist with different flavored vodkas or white rum and a pop of color.

If you want to bring back a classic childhood flavor with a fun adult twist! Try our gummy bear shot recipe which is fruity and incredibly tasty.

You can also customize these jello shots to match your party color scheme by using unflavored gelatin and adding your own food coloring. Like these colorful red, white, and blue jello Shots for your Fourth of July holiday.

how to make jello shots - stacks of different colored jello shots in a bowl

How to Make Jello Shots

There are several different ways you can make Jell-O shots depending on your preference of liquor and flavors. The simplest way to make them is by using a prepackaged flavor of jello and a smooth vodka such as Absolute or Smirnoff.

All you have to do is prepare the flavored jello gelatin using boiling water, then add your choice of vodka to a mixing bowl after it’s cooled.

how to make jello shots with vodka - a photo of mixing the ingredients in a pan using a whisk.

Pour the mixture into small plastic cups with lids for easy storing or decorative shot glasses for fancier occasions.

The rule of thumb is to use 2/3 measuring cup of liquor to three standard boxes of jello. If you’re making several boxes for a larger gathering, you’ll add more liquor accordingly.

Our favorite trick is to use unflavored gelatin and add your own food color for a custom party table!

best jello shot recipe - pouring mixed jello shots in a small container

Tips for Making Jello Shots 

  • To make custom jello colors, use a white liquor such as Rumhaven that has its own flavor. Then add a dash of food coloring to create custom shots.
  • Be sure to not add too much liquor or the jello won’t set correctly and will have a watery consistency. 
how many jello shots to get drunk - a mix of all different jello shots in a single photo

How to Choose the Right Liquor and Ingredients

You don’t need to break the bank when it comes to choosing a smooth liquor. You don’t want an overwhelming liquor taste, so getting a bottle of smooth liquor will go a long way in making the best jello shots. 

Also, keep in mind what flavor combinations you’re wanting to make. For instance, you can use Bacardi rum mixed with Island Pineapple jello for a fun tiki jello shot. 

How to Store Jello Shots

The number one question we get asked is “how long do jello shots last?”

You can easily store shots in the refrigerator to make them just before a party. While jello holds up well in the fridge, you should consume them within 1-2 weeks for best flavor.

If you’ve made extras and want to keep them on hand for future parties or to make well in advance, you can store them in the freezer as well.

vodka jello shots - a close up of different jello shots in a bowl.

Toppings to Use or the Best Jello Shots

There’s one important thing to note when it comes to topping shots with a festive garnish. Because the jello is water-based, you’ll want to be sure to garnish them just before serving so that the toppings don’t become watered down and spread. For instance, the food coloring of sprinkles will slowly condensate and spread if you add them too soon before serving.

Fun topping ideas to use for gelly shots —

  • Whipped cream
  • Sprinkles
  • Edible gold foil (like on our popular champagne jello shots recipe)
  • Gummy worms
  • Crushed cookie crumbles such as Oreos or graham crackers
strong jello shot recipe - a photo of jello shots aesthetically stack in a tower
how to make vodka jello shooters - high angled photo of jello shots in a bowl.

Fun Shot Recipes to Try

If you’re looking for more shot recipes and ideas, you can find our favorites below!

how do you make jello shots - a close up pciture of jello shots

How To Make Jello Shots Recipe

Print Recipe
5 from 5 votes
Here's how to make the ultimate jello shots in custom colors and flavors for your next big party!
Prep Time10 minutes
Cooling Time2 hours
Total Time2 hours 10 minutes
Course Cocktails, Drinks
Cuisine American

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Ingredients

  • 9 oz jello 3 3-oz packages
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 cup liquor Use can also use less liquor and replace it with cool water if you'd prefer for a lesser alcohol volume.
  • Food coloring Optional only use if you're making custom colors of jello with a clear jello packet

Nutrition

Serving: 1shot | Calories: 127kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 2g | Sodium: 100mg | Potassium: 2mg | Sugar: 18g | Calcium: 1mg | Iron: 1mg
Servings: 12 shots
Calories: 127kcal

Instructions

  • Bring 1 cup of water to a boil, and stir in 3 envelopes of jello until fully dissolved. Remove from heat and set aside.
  • Pour the dissolved gelatin mixture and 1 cup of your choice of liquor in a mixing bowl and stir. To help the gelatin set faster, use can keep the liquor in the freezer so that it's already cold once combined.
  • If you're making custom colors for jello shots, you'll also want to stir in your food coloring now as well.
  • Once combined, use a spoon or small funnel to pour the mixture into the individual jello cups.
  • Allow the jello cups to cool completely for approximately 2 hours in the refridgerator.
  • Garnish with sprinkles, cookie crumbles, or whipped cream before serving.
Cost: $20
KEYWORD: how to make jello shots

Don’t forget to share your jello shots recipe with us on nstagram using the hashtag #sugarandclothloves. We always love seeing all of your creations! Looking for more quick and delicious recipes? Find them all right here!

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5 from 5 votes (1 rating without comment)

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8 Comments

  1. Gave these a try for a weekend gathering and they were a hit all around the table! So tasty and fun; better than the traditional shot that everyone ends up spilling, too!5 stars