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Home » Jell-O Shots

Jell-O Shots

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Steve KilcullenBy Steve Kilcullen
Steve Kilcullen
Steve Kilcullen Cocktail Writer

An adventurer of the imagination, with a keen interest in the world of cocktails, spirits and sparkling wines.

Expertise: Cinema, Cocktails, Cartoons, Rock n' Roll & James Bond View all posts →
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Want something fun and easy to make for you and your friends? There’s always room for Jell-O Shots.

Let’s say you spent some years at a university, receiving a higher education. You studied hard, took diligent notes and did a pretty good job when exams rolled around. Once the pressure was off, it was time to let your hair down. You and your friends were known to crack open a beer or two, but sometimes the occasion called for something stronger. And a little more colorful.

At some point in our lives, we’ve all had some Jell-O. Whether it was because we were sick and our mom made it for us, or when we were little and hit the dessert buffet at any given restaurant, there were always bowls of Jell-O in every color, covered in whipped cream. And of course, when we’re older and going out with friends to a party or two, we slurped our share of tonight’s drink, the Jell-O Shot.

The history of this concoction as we know it today is just as much fun as the shot itself. During the 1950s, musician and satirist Tom Lehrer is said to have invented the popular shooter. While in the Navy, Lehrer had figured out a way of smuggling alcohol onto the base where he was stationed for a Christmas party, circumventing a “booze ban”. Mixing orange Jell-O and vodka into dozens of little cups, he managed to sneak the forbidden substance in, and the rest, as they say, is history.

The Jell-O Shot doesn’t need to only be associated with crazy college students during Spring Break. This versatile recipe isn’t bound to just one liquor or flavor of gelatin. Try using gin, rum and even wine in your shots. Mix and match with different flavors to see what pairs up the best. The only limit is your imagination.

What Is The Best Alcohol To Use In A Jell-O Shot?

When Jell-O Shots are served, you’ll find that they’re usually, and traditionally, made with vodka. You can play around with flavored varieties of the spirit to sweeten your shots up a little more. And as I mentioned above, this recipe is ripe for experimenting with, so try other alcohol out as well.

Print Recipe
8 shots
2 hours hours 5 minutes minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 packet of Jell-O 3 ounces, any flavor you prefer
  • 1 cup of water boiling
  • 1/2 cup of water cold
  • 1/2 cup of vodka

Instructions

  • Add the Jell-O to a mixing bowl, and then pour in the boiling water. Stir the mixture until the Jell-O is completely dissolved.
  • In the same bowl, add the cold water and then the vodka. Ensure everything is thoroughly mixed together.
  • Carefully pour the mix into shot glasses or any other small containers you have.
  • Pop them into the fridge to cool and set for about 2 hours. Serve once the shots have become firm.

Nutrition

Calories: 75kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g

What Kind Of Glassware Is Used?

You can prepare this recipe using traditional shot glasses, but if you’re making these for a large party, you can also prep them in little paper or plastic cups.
Silicone molds, hollowed-out fruits, or mini dessert cups can work too, so get crazy and creative.

Who was Tom Lehrer?

Tom Lehrer was famous during the 1950s and 1960s for his comedic and clever musical numbers. A sort of precursor to Weird Al Yankovic, he was popular for parodying popular song styles of the time with his humorous lyrics and original melodies.

Similar Shooters To The Jell-O Shot

The last party you threw was a huge success, due in large part to the amazing Jell-O Shots you served. As everyone left for the evening, they all remarked how they couldn’t wait for the next shindig… and how they were looking forward to what you’ll be serving. If you need ideas for the next get-together, Twist & Toast can provide the recipes. Try these shots out on your friends the next time they’re over.

  • Gummy Bear Shot – Serve up some candy-like flavors at your next bash.
  • Birthday Cake Shot – Is it someone’s birthday? Make sure you have these Birthday Cake Shots handy.
  • Cement Mixer Shot – Dare your guests to try this mouth-filling mixture of Irish cream and lime juice.
  • Kamikaze Shot – This popular shooter has as much kick as it does flavor.
Steve Kilcullen

About Steve KilcullenCinema, Cocktails, Cartoons, Rock n' Roll & James Bond

An adventurer of the imagination, with a keen interest in the world of cocktails, spirits and sparkling wines.

Reader Interactions

James Rayner

✓Reviewed by James RaynerMixology Writing & Magazine Editing

Published: Feb 26, 2024 | Updated: Apr 1, 2026

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