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Vodka Jello Shots

These vodka jello shots are a crowd-pleaser because they're simple to make, infinitely customizable, and they disappear faster than you can say 'one more round.' Vibrant, jiggly shots that taste way better than anything from a bottle, ready in under 5 minutes of active work plus chilling time.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 12 shots
Course: Appetizer, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 85
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 packet 0.25 ounces unflavored gelatin or 2 packets flavored gelatin (like cherry, lime, or berry)
  • 1 cup fruit juice soda, or flavored liquid (cranberry, orange, pineapple, or your preference)
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1/2 cup vodka 80-proof or higher
  • 1/4 cup cold water
  • Pinch of salt optional, enhances flavor

Equipment

  • 1 small saucepan
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Wooden spoon or whisk
  • 12 small shot glasses or plastic jello shot cups
  • Shallow baking pan or tray

Method
 

  1. Arrange your 12 shot glasses or plastic jello shot cups in a shallow baking pan so they don't tip over during transport to the fridge.
  2. Pour the boiling water into a small saucepan and add your gelatin packet. Stir continuously for about 30 seconds until the gelatin is completely dissolved and there are no visible particles.
  3. Pour 1 cup of your chosen fruit juice or soda into the saucepan with the dissolved gelatin. Stir well to combine the two liquids completely.
  4. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to cool slightly before adding vodka.
  5. Pour 1/2 cup of vodka into the saucepan and stir thoroughly for about 1 minute to ensure the vodka is evenly distributed throughout the gelatin mixture.
  6. Pour 1/4 cup of cold water into the mixture and stir well to bring the temperature down.
  7. Carefully pour the gelatin mixture into each shot glass, filling them about three-quarters full.
  8. Place the entire pan of filled shot glasses in the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or until the jello is completely firm.

Notes

Always let your vodka jello shots chill for the full 4 hours before serving, even if they seem firm after 2 hours. Use vodka that's at least 80-proof, as lower proof vodka may not set properly. Make these up to 3 days ahead and store them covered in the fridge.