Margarita Jell-O Shots

By Melissa Search Jump to Recipe

Get the party started with these charming and zesty Margarita Jell-O Shots.

Jell-O shots, as we know them, originated in America in the 1950s. As the story goes, a man in the Navy, Tom Lehrer, was attending a Christmas party on base, where he was stationed. However, alcohol was banned, so he cleverly filled cups with a mix of liquor and orange-flavored Jell-O, creating Jell-O shots. You’re a legend, Tom. I’m sure everyone at the party loved this—I certainly would! I started enjoying Jell-O shots about 50 years after Tom brought them to a bash, but they always remind me of Spring Break at the Jersey Shore or a wild house party.

Now, the Margarita Jell-O Shot is a step up from OG Jell-O Shots. Both Classic Margaritas and Jell-O shots scream party vibes, so combining the two was inevitable and quite genius. Normally, Jell-O shots are made according to the recipe on the gelatin box and then you add vodka or rum. However, the Margarita Jell-O shot is crafted, not just thrown together in a frat house. It combines a classic cocktail recipe with a fun pastime, making it seem classier.

Aside from all the fun, the flavor is truly great. The tangy lime that defines a Margarita is created by combining freshly squeezed lime juice with lime-flavored Jell-O. This takes the place of sour mix, which is great because that is my least favorite part of the refreshing, boozy cocktail. We also use tequila and triple sec to match the taste of a true Margarita.

Ways To Serve Margarita Jell-O Shots

The most traditional way to serve Margarita Jell-O Shots is in plastic or paper shot glasses. These are great because they are inexpensive and pretty sterile. Paper shot glasses are more popular for Jell-O shots since you can peel the paper away.

Nevertheless, we can get creative with these Margarita Jell-O Shots and serve them as lime wedges. First, cut a lime in half, and use the juice for the recipe. Next, remove any flesh from the skin and place the emptied half, face up, into a cupcake pan, like a little bowl. Then, fill the lime halves with your Margarita Jell-O Shot mixture and refrigerate until solid. Finally, gently cut the filled wedges in half and voilà, you have Jell-O shots that look like lime wedges! Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and serve!

What Is The Best Alcohol To Use In Margarita Jell-O Shots?

My go-to for Margarita Jell-O shots (and most tequila drinks) is Espolòn Blanco. It is smooth, clear, and affordable, but not cheap. Other top contenders for tequila are Patrón Silver and 1800 Silver. As for the triple sec, you can use whatever brand is available at the store and not worry about quality too much. Although, if you want to get fancy here you can opt for Cointreau or Grand Marnier.

What Glassware And Garnish To Use?

Use disposable paper or plastic shot glasses and garnish with a lime slice or wedge and a sprinkle of salt.

Can You Store Margarita Jell-O Shots?

Plan to give yourself at least 4 to 5 hours to allow your Jell-O shots to set. After this, they can last up to 5 days in the fridge covered with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container.

Drinks Similar To The Margarita Jell-O Shot

Taking and making shots can be fun, especially ones so cleverly crafted as the Margarita Jell-O Shot. If you served these shots at a party, I’m sure everyone wanted more and praised your mixology skills. So, check out some of these other creations from Twist and Toast, with each one sure to impress.

• Mexican Candy Shot – A simple, fruity, boozy Margarita-like shot.
• Gummy Bear Shot – These seriously delicious shots taste like our fave childhood candy.
• Birthday Cake Shot – Serve up fun and festive vibes with this adorable shot.
• Virgin Margarita – Need a break from the alcohol, but still want to be in the mix? Try this Virgin Margarita, which can also be served in shot glasses.