Jello shots are a classic party staple that never go out of style. Whether you’re hosting a wild college bash or a more subdued gathering, jello shots are an easy way to bring fun and excitement to the party. The good news is that jello shots are surprisingly easy to make. All you need is some jello, boiling water, liquor (if desired), and a few hours of patience while they set up. Here’s a simple recipe for making delicious jello shots.
Ingredients
The ingredients you’ll need for jello shots vary depending on the type of jello shots you’re making. If you’re making classic jello shots, you’ll need:
- 1 box of jello
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1/2 cup alcohol (vodka, tequila, rum, etc.)
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try making flavored jello shots. For these, you’ll need the same ingredients as above, plus a few drops of food coloring, a few drops of flavored extract (like raspberry, orange, or almond), and some fresh fruit or fruit juice.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making jello shots is surprisingly easy. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
- Mix the jello and boiling water together in a bowl. Stir until the jello is completely dissolved.
- Add the cold water and the alcohol to the mixture. Stir until everything is combined.
- If desired, add a few drops of food coloring and/or flavored extract to the mixture. Stir until everything is combined.
- Pour the mixture into shot glasses or plastic cups.
- If desired, add a small piece of fresh fruit or a few drops of fruit juice to each cup.
- Refrigerate the jello shots for at least 3 hours, or until they’ve set.
- Serve the jello shots chilled.
Tips and Tricks for Making Jello Shots
If you want your jello shots to be a hit at your next party, here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind:
- Don’t use too much alcohol or your jello shots will be too strong. Start with a 1/2 cup and adjust to your own tastes.
- Chill the jello shots in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours. If they’re still not set, you can put them in the freezer for a few minutes.
- If you’re using flavored extract, use a small amount. A few drops should be enough.
- If you’re using food coloring, make sure it’s food-grade and non-toxic.
- To make the jello shots easier to eat, use plastic shot glasses or mini cups. These can easily be found at most grocery stores.
- If you’re using fresh fruit, make sure it’s ripe and sweet. Unripe or sour fruit won’t taste very good in the jello shots.
- If you’re using juice, make sure it’s 100% juice with no added sugar.
Serving Suggestions for Jello Shots
Once you’ve made your jello shots, you can serve them in a variety of ways. Here are a few suggestions:
- Serve the jello shots as part of a dessert platter. Place them alongside other treats like cookies, brownies, and cake.
- Create a jello shot bar. Set out several varieties of jello shots and let your guests mix and match.
- Serve the jello shots in a punch bowl. This is a great option for larger gatherings.
- Serve the jello shots in a tray or platter. This is an easy way to transport the shots from one location to another.
Conclusion
Jello shots are a classic party favorite that are surprisingly easy to make. With the right ingredients and some patience while they set up, you can make delicious jello shots in no time. Just remember to use food-grade ingredients, to not use too much alcohol, and to chill the shots for at least 3 hours before serving. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be sure to impress your friends with your jello shot-making skills.
