Bright, festive, and seriously irresistible, the Red, White & Blue Jello Shots Recipe is the ultimate party starter for patriotic holidays—or any day that calls for a little extra fun. With vibrant layers of fruity jello, creamy coconut, and a delightful kick from your favorite vodka, these jello shots are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Show-Stopping Layers: Each colorful stratum is perfectly distinct, so every shot is as gorgeous as it is delicious.
- Customizable Flavors: Switch up your Jello or alcohol choices to create a signature twist that reflects your taste—or the holiday you’re celebrating!
- Perfect for Parties: With an easy make-ahead process and a batch size that feeds a crowd, these jello shots mean less stress and more fun for your gathering.
- Surprisingly Simple: Achieving those crisp, clean layers is easier than you think—just a little patience and a few tips are all you need.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of my favorite things about the Red, White & Blue Jello Shots Recipe is how it uses simple, easily found ingredients that each play a crucial role—bold flavors, creamy texture, and eye-catching colors all in one! Here’s how each ingredient brings your jello shots to life.
- 3 oz package of blue Jello: The classic blueberry layer, giving you that vibrant blue stripe and unmistakable fruity flavor.
- 3 oz package of red Jello: Choose cherry or strawberry for a bold red burst that bookends the shots beautifully.
- 2 packets Knox gelatin: Essential for the creamy white middle layer, this unflavored gelatin creates that gorgeous opaque band.
- 1 cup coconut milk: The secret to that dreamy, rich white center—use full-fat coconut milk for the best texture and flavor.
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup sugar: Sweetens the coconut layer just enough; I use 1/4 cup for a lightly sweet touch, but adjust to your liking!
- 3 cups vodka (divided): Your spirit of choice gives these shots their fun party kick—whipped cream vodka is extra delicious, but plain works too.
- 3 cups water (divided): Water perfectly balances the alcohol for a smooth, jiggly texture (and keeps things from getting too intense).
- 2 oz shot cups: Party store mini cups are perfect, no prep needed—grab a tray for easy fridge transport.
Variations
This Red, White & Blue Jello Shots Recipe is totally customizable! Whether you want to get creative with flavor combos, swap out for dietary needs, or match a party theme, it’s easy to riff on this festive favorite.
- Kid-Friendly Mocktails: Omit the vodka and use additional cold water or clear soda instead—the result is a family-friendly treat everyone can enjoy.
- Different Spirits: Try coconut rum, flavored seltzers, or even tequila for a unique spin that matches your party’s vibe.
- Alternative Colors: Layer green, yellow, or orange jello to match other holidays or party themes beyond just patriotic celebrations.
- Vegan Version: Use agar powder (a plant-based gelatin alternative) and a non-dairy milk for the white layer if you’re serving vegan friends.
How to Make Red, White & Blue Jello Shots Recipe
Step 1: Make the Red Layer
Start by setting out all your shot cups on a baking tray for easy handling. In a mixing bowl, stir 1 cup boiling water into your red jello mix until it’s completely dissolved. Add 1 cup of your chosen vodka—whipped cream flavored is my favorite for a dessert-like touch! Mix thoroughly. Carefully pour this red mixture into your prepared cups, aiming for an even base in each. Now, patience is key: pop your tray into the fridge and let them set until very firm (overnight is best for sharp layers, but at least 30 minutes will do in a pinch).
Step 2: Create the White Layer
For the show-stopping white layer, sprinkle Knox gelatin over 1 cup of water in a small saucepan—let it bloom for a few minutes until every grain is soaked (this is crucial for smooth, set jello!). Gently heat on low, then whisk in the coconut milk and stir until the gelatin dissolves and the mixture is just shy of boiling. Stir in the sugar until smooth, then remove from heat. Let it cool slightly before adding 1 cup vodka (to keep things snowy white). When the mix has cooled about 10 minutes and isn’t too hot, gently spoon or pour it over the fully set red layer. Refrigerate again until firm.
Step 3: Finish with the Blue Layer
Time for that bright blue finale! Dissolve the blue jello with 1 cup boiling water, then mix in 1 cup vodka. Allow it to cool for around 10 minutes on the counter (a little patience keeps your layers from blurring!). Once cooled to at least room temperature, gently spoon or slowly pour the blue jello over your set white layer, filling cups to the top. Return them to the fridge one last time to finish setting until everything is playful, jiggly, and irresistibly party-ready!
Pro Tips for Making Red, White & Blue Jello Shots Recipe
- Layer-Setting Patience: Always let each layer chill fully before adding the next—this keeps your colors crisp, not muddy or swirled.
- Cool-Down Control: Allow each warm jello mixture to cool to room temperature before pouring—especially the white and blue layers—to prevent melting and blending.
- Mix Your Coconut Milk: Shake or stir your canned coconut milk until smooth to avoid a separated or uneven white band.
- Adjusting Strength: Prefer a milder shot? Simply replace some of the vodka with cold water—just keep each layer’s total liquids at 2 cups for the right texture.
How to Serve Red, White & Blue Jello Shots Recipe
Garnishes
To really make your Red, White & Blue Jello Shots Recipe sparkle, top each shot with a swirl of whipped cream, a single fresh blueberry or raspberry, and a pinch of patriotic sprinkles. Not only does it look festive, but the fruity bite and creamy topping add another layer of flavor fun!
Side Dishes
Bring out a summertime spread—think mini sliders, grilled hot dogs, or crunchy veggie platters. The sweet, boozy jello shots go hand-in-hand with picnic classics and finger foods, making them a perfect pairing for BBQs and backyard parties.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Red, White & Blue Jello Shots Recipe on a chilled platter lined with ice, nestled in a basket of mini flags, or arranged in the shape of a flag for ultimate wow factor. You can even display them on festive cupcake stands or in a “shot flight” presentation for extra fun!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you (somehow!) have extra jello shots after your celebration, keep them covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. The layers hold up beautifully, and the flavor actually deepens as they sit, making leftovers a very happy surprise.
Freezing
While it’s tempting to freeze them, jello shots don’t love the freezer—the texture changes and the layers can get watery or grainy after thawing. Your best bet is to make them a day or two in advance and keep them well-chilled in the fridge instead.
Reheating
No reheating necessary here! The Red, White & Blue Jello Shots Recipe is designed to be served cold, straight from the refrigerator. Just garnish and enjoy when you’re ready!
FAQs
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Can I use a different milk instead of coconut milk for the white layer?
Absolutely! While coconut milk gives a subtle tropical flavor and a creamy texture, you can swap in whole dairy milk, half-and-half, or even a plain, unsweetened almond or oat milk. Just aim for options with some fat content to get a luscious, opaque middle layer.
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Why did my layers blend together instead of staying separate?
This usually happens if the layer below isn’t fully set or if you pour the next layer while it’s still too warm. Always let each layer chill until it’s firm and cool each new jello mix to room temperature before adding.
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How strong are these jello shots? Can I make them lighter?
The Red, White & Blue Jello Shots Recipe is typically made half alcohol, half water for each layer—so one 2 oz shot packs about 1 oz of vodka. If you’d prefer a gentler version, simply replace some of the alcohol with cold water (just keep the total liquid amount per layer at 2 cups).
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Can I make these jello shots in a pan and cut them into squares?
Yes! Pour each layer into a 9×13-inch glass dish, making sure to let each layer set completely before adding the next. Once fully chilled, slice into squares and serve on a tray for a fun, shareable twist.
Final Thoughts
If you want to instantly become the life of the party or wow your friends at your next potluck, the Red, White & Blue Jello Shots Recipe is the way to go! I hope you have as much fun making (and eating) these striking, spirited treats as I do—don’t forget to snag a photo before they disappear!
Print
Red, White & Blue Jello Shots Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 day 30 minutes
- Yield: Approx. 25-28 shots
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Layering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Red, White & Blue Jello Shots are a fun and colorful layered treat perfect for parties and celebrations. These festive shots are made with blue and red Jello layers, a creamy white layer, and a touch of alcohol for an adult twist.
Ingredients
Blue Layer:
- 3 oz package of blue Jello
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup alcohol of choice
Red Layer:
- 3 oz package of red Jello
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup alcohol of choice
White Layer:
- 2 packets Knox gelatin
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 cup alcohol of choice
- Jello shot cups
- Baking sheets for setting
Instructions
- Make the Red layer: In a bowl, dissolve red Jello in boiling water. Add alcohol, pour into shot cups, and refrigerate.
- Make the White layer: Bloom Knox gelatin in water, add coconut milk, sugar, and alcohol. Allow to cool slightly, pour over red layer, and refrigerate.
- Make the Blue layer: Dissolve blue Jello in boiling water, add alcohol, pour over white layer, and refrigerate until set.
Notes
- Ensure each layer sets completely before adding the next.
- Cool new layers slightly to prevent mixing.
- Use clear alcohol for the white layer to maintain color.
- For a weaker shot, use more cold water in place of alcohol.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Jello Shot
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 0.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
