How To Make Jello Shots

Jello shots are simply a mixture of jello and alcohol. They are considered a fun way to take alcohol by some people, but are regarded as extremely dangerous by others. For children and teenagers, the attraction of the bright colors and fun presentations can disguise a potent level of alcohol.

To make Jello Shots is really easy and not too different from making regular jello.

Below we give you step-by-step instructions on how to make simple jello shots. We will also give you some other creative suggestions for less basic presentations.

Ingredients for approximately 32 1-ounce (30 ml) shots:

1 6-oz. package of Jello (170 grams)
Approximately 3 cups of water
Approximately 1 cup of chilled alcohol of your choice

Method:

  • Mix the water and alcohol to make 2 cups. The proportions will depend on the proof of the alcohol you use. Use the following ratios to ensure that the shots will set:

13 oz. (26 tbsp., 390 ml) of 30 to 50 (~20%) proof alcohol with 3 oz. (6 tbsp., 90 ml) water
10 oz. (20 tbsp., 300 ml) 80 to 100 (~45%) proof alcohol with 6 oz. (12 tbsp., 180 ml) water
6 oz. (12 tbsp., 180 ml) 150 to 200 proof alcohol with 10 oz (20 tbsp., 300 ml) water

  • Put the mixture in the refrigerator to chill. Wait until the mixture is completely chilled before moving onto the next step. If the alcohol isn’t cold, it might exceed its boiling point; when mixed, some of the alcohol will evaporate, and the shots will be less potent.
  • Boil one cup of water and mix it with the powdered jello. Stir until the powder is completely dissolved.
  • Stir in the chilled water and alcohol mixture.
  • Spray the inside of the cups with cooking spray to prevent sticking and pour the mixture into the cups.
  • Place the shots on a tray in refrigerator and chill until they become firm (approximately 2 to 4 hours).
  • Keep refrigerated until served and always serve them cold.

So that was the basic recipe for how to make jello shots.

Some creative ideas for other presentations are:

  • Scoop out the center of an orange and fill with orange flavored jello.
  • Layered shots can be made by using different jello colors, one on top of the other. Each layer must be set before adding another layer.
  • More potent shots using Vodka – warn the guests.
  • Fruity jello shots – just add fruit to the mixture before it sets – and on top for decoration.

Warnings

Because the jello shots contain alcohol, with its attendant dangers, take note of the following:

  • Ensure the kids don’t mistake this for ordinary Jello.They can get very sick if they eat the ones involving beer, and they may get drunk.
  • Jello is not a vegetarian dessert. Gelatin is a protein produced from animal material. Warn your guests.
  • Jello shots contain as much, or more alcohol than a beer, wine or alcohol shot.

Now that you know how to make jello shots, maybe you would like to add your own suggestions.

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