Jell-O Shots

Article by: Krissy Downey

Does anything bring the party quite like some Jell-O shots? At their simplest, Jell-O shots are a mixture of flavored gelatin and alcohol that’s set in the fridge. But there are a few smart tips you can follow to reduce the time it takes to mix up and set Jell-O shots and minimize the mess they create. Read on to learn more, and then some—including how to make and store Jell-O shots ahead of time.

Tips for Making Jell-O Shots

Start with cold ingredients. Keeping the ingredients cold helps the shots set faster in the refrigerator, making sure you’re always only a few hours away from a great party.

Make the mixture in a large liquid measuring cup. Once the Jell-O mixture is made, the shots come together in one bowl. Making Jell-O shots in a large liquid measuring cup, instead of a bowl, makes dividing and pouring the shots easier and mess-free.

Make them in advance. Jell-O shots are perfect for a crowd. Make a few batches of them in advance to pull out of the fridge right before a party.

Adjust the amount of vodka based on your taste. If you’re going for something a little sweeter and milder, you can reduce the amount of vodka and replace it with water. Just make sure the water and vodka combined yield one cup.

Try it in a baking dish for boozy Jell-O squares. Our Jell-O shot recipe can also be made in a 9x9 inch glass baking dish. From there, the Jell-O can be cut into squares for a tasteful presentation.

Get creative with flavors! Experiment with different flavors of gelatin to make your Jell-O shots on-theme for your next party. Think apple in the fall and peach in the summer!

How Long Do Jell-O Shots Take to Set?

Jell-O shots typically set between two and four hours. The exact time varies depending on the size of the shot and the amount of alcohol used. If you’re trying to make these quickly, smaller shots and less alcohol will speed up the time.

How Long do Jell-o Shots Last?

They’ll keep for up to 1 week in the refrigerator. Our recipe calls for using 2-ounce plastic cups with lids, which allow you to make the Jell-O shots far in advance and hold them—and even stack them—in the fridge until party time.

How Do You Take Jell-O Shots?

First things first, you want to loosen the edges by running your finger or a small utensil along the inside of the cup. Then, take it like you would any other shot, using your tongue to push out the bottom of the Jell-O or gently squeezing the cup to pop it out. From there, enjoy it all in one bite!

Upgraded Jell-O Shot Recipes

Our recipe is just a jumping off point; elevate your Jell-O shot game with these show-stopping party treats.

Sour Watermelon Jell-O Shots: Not all Jell-O shots have to be served in shot glasses. In this recipe, watermelon rinds are filled with sour watermelon-flavored Jell-O. The finished shots ook and taste like everyone’s favorite watermelon candy.

Rainbow Jell-O Shot Cups: Show your pride with these eye-popping Jell-O cups, made by layering different colors of gelatin with panna cotta. Two creamy treats in one small bite.

Peach Bellini Party Shots: Adding fresh fruit to Jell-O shots, or in this case, Jell-O cubes, creates a beautiful presentation and a welcomed textural layer. We love biting into these party shots and getting a bonus pop of juicy, fresh peach.

Pina Colada Shots: You’ll be feeling like you’re at the beach with these pineapple-shaped shots. They’re flavored with coconut milk and rum, just like a proper pina colada.