Celebrate in patriotic style with these vibrant Red White and Blue Jello Shots! Perfect for festive gatherings, they’re a show-stopping addition to any party table. With bold, eye-catching layers and a delightful burst of flavor, these treats are as fun to look at as they are to enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a Fourth of July bash, Memorial Day barbecue, or any star-spangled occasion, these patriotic jello shots are sure to impress your guests.
Jello shots are perfect for parties because they combine the fun of a classic cocktail with the whimsy of a dessert. Patriotic jello shots, in particular, are a crowd-pleasing choice for July 4th and Memorial Day gatherings. These red, white, and blue jello shots are a breeze to make, and their vibrant colors add a playful, patriotic touch. Since they’re prepared in advance, they’re the perfect make-ahead cocktail option, letting you enjoy the festivities without worrying about mixing drinks on the spot.
While vodka is a classic choice for making Fourth of July jello shots, these versatile treats can also be made with gin, tequila, whiskey, or brandy to suit your taste. The bold, eye-catching layers of red, white, and blue are not only fun to prepare but also the ultimate way to toast to freedom!
Ingredients
- Jell-O Mix – You'll need both blue and red colored jello in the flavor of your choice. Use regular jello (not sugar free) for the best results.
- Water – You will need both boiling water and cold water in order to dissolve the jello and allow it to set.
- Vodka – Select a smooth, high-quality vodka for the best flavor. You can substitute with another spirit like gin or tequila for a different twist.
- Unflavored Gelatin – Use pure, unflavored gelatin, not gelatin dessert mixes. This helps the white layer set with a creamy consistency.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – This adds texture and flavor to the white jello layer.
- Whipped Cream – Top with fresh whipped cream.
- Sprinkles – Select red, white, and blue sprinkles for a festive touch. If you can’t find a mix, you can create your own with individual colors.
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the blue jello layer by combining jello mix, boiling water and cold water.
- Step 2: Divide the blue jello between your serving cups and refrigerate for 2-3 hours to set.
- Step 3: Prepare the white layer by combining gelatin, cold water, boiling water and sweetened condensed milk. Add to cups and allow to set for 2-3 hours.
- Step 4: Prepare the red jello mixture and add to the cups. Chill for several hours then top with whipped cream and sprinkles.
Hint: Allow each layer to chill for 2-3 hours to set completely.
Variations
- Non Alcoholic Version - Replace alcohol with flavored sparkling water, fruit juice, or soda for a fun, alcohol-free version that still captures the vibrant look.
- Jello Flavors - Mix and match red and blue jello flavors for a flavorful twist.
If you like these Fouth of July jello shots, try my Santa Hat Christmas Jello Shots or Orange Creamsicle Jello Shots Recipe.
Storage
Patriotic jello shots can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cover them with plastic wrap to prevent them from absorbing flavors.
Add whipped cream and sprinkles just before serving.
Top Tips
- Allow each layer to fully set before adding the next layer.
- Pour the layers slowly and gently to avoid mixing the colors.
- Make sure each layer is cooled to room temperature before adding to prevent it from melting the previous layer.
- Refrigerate the jello shots for at least 2-3 hours per layer to ensure they set correctly.
- When preparing in advance, store the jello shots in an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap to keep them fresh.
- Use clear plastic cups for the best visual effect of the colorful layers.
- If you want a firmer texture, slightly reduce the amount of cold water in the recipe.
FAQ
Simply replace the vodka with additional cold water or fruit juice to create a non-alcoholic version. You can also use flavored soda or sparkling water for a fun, fizzy alternative.
Allow each layer to set before adding the next. This ensures that the layers stay distinct and don’t blend. Be gentle when pouring each new layer, and consider pouring it over the back of a spoon to help it settle evenly.
Related
Looking for more fun cocktail recipes? Try these:
If you like this Patriotic Jello Shots recipe, please leave a 5-star rating.
RECIPE
Red White and Blue Jello Shots
Equipment
- 30 2 ounce plastic cups
Ingredients
Blue Layer
- 1 box of blue Jell-O (berry blue flavored)
- 1 cup boiling water
- ½ cup cold water
- ½ cup vodka
White Layer
- 2 packets of unflavored gelatin
- ½ cup cold water for blooming the gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 can 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
Red Layer
- 1 box of red Jell-O e.g., cherry or strawberry
- 1 cup boiling water
- ½ cup cold water
- ½ cup vodka
Garnish (optional)
- Whipped cream
- Red, white and blue sprinkles
Instructions
- For the Blue Layer (Bottom): Dissolve the blue Jell-O in 1 cup of boiling water. Mix in the cold water and vodka. Pour the mixture into your 1 oz shot glasses, filling up to one-third of the way. Place in the refrigerator to set, about 2-3 hours.
- For the White Layer (Middle): Sprinkle 2 packets of unflavored gelatin over ½ cup of cold water. Let it sit for a few minutes so it starts to thicken. Add 1 cup boiling water and stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk until well mixed. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
- Once the blue layer is set, gently pour the white gelatin mixture over it to fill another third of the glasses. Return to the refrigerator and let set for another 2-3 hours.
- Red Layer (Top): Dissolve the red Jell-O in 1 cup of boiling water. Mix in the cold water and vodka.. Once the white layer is set, carefully add the red layer on top, filling up to the top of the glasses. Refrigerate until set, about 2-3 hours or overnight for best results.
- Garnish: Just before serving, top each Jell-O shot with a small dollop of whipped cream. Sprinkle red, white, and blue sprinkles over the whipped cream
Notes
Nutrition
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