These fun and colorful jello shots are perfect for any celebration! With red, white, and blue layers, they look just like the American flag and taste fruity and sweet!
Making them is a blast, and everyone loves the festive look. I like to serve them in clear cups for the best effect. Just be careful; they go fast at parties! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Blue Raspberry Jello: This gives the blue layer a vibrant color and sweet flavor. If you can’t find blue raspberry, try using plain gelatin with blue food coloring for a similar effect!
Vanilla or Coconut Gelatin: This adds a creamy white layer. Coconut is my favorite for its tropical hint. If you prefer, use a flavored gelatin that’s light in color, like peach or even plain gelatin mixed with sweetened condensed milk.
Strawberry or Cherry Jello: These options create the red layer. The fruitiness pairs well with the other flavors. If you want a different taste, raspberry or cranberry do the trick too!
Vodka: This is added for a little kick! You can also use flavored vodka for extra fun. For a non-alcoholic version, swap vodka with extra cold water or a fruit juice like cranberry.
How Do I Make Sure My Jello Layers Don’t Mix?
Layering jello shots can be tricky, but it’s all about timing! To prevent mixing, here are some tips:
- Let each layer set completely before adding the next. I usually give it at least 30 minutes.
- Pour gently. Use a spoon to help drizzle the next layer on top; this will help reduce splashing and mixing.
- Cool the mixtures to room temperature before pouring on an already set layer.
With these steps, your jello shots will be beautifully layered and festive for your celebration!
Easy Patriotic American Flag Jello Shots
Ingredients:
- 1 (6 oz) package blue raspberry flavored Jello
- 1 cup boiling water (divided)
- 1/2 cup vodka (divided)
- 1 (3 oz) package vanilla or coconut flavored gelatin (for the white layer)
- 1 (6 oz) package strawberry or cherry flavored Jello
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- Red, white, and blue star-shaped sprinkles (optional, for garnish)
- 1/2 cup cold water (for white layer)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus around 1-2 hours total chilling time. You’ll spend a few minutes preparing each of the layers, and then let them set in the fridge. It’s an easy and festive treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Blue Layer:
In a medium bowl, dissolve the blue raspberry Jello in 1/2 cup boiling water. Make sure to stir well until it’s completely dissolved. To this mixture, add 1/4 cup vodka and mix it in nicely.
2. Set the Blue Layer:
Carefully pour the blue mixture evenly into small clear plastic shot cups, filling about 1/3 of each cup. Pop these in the refrigerator and let them chill until fully set, roughly 30 minutes.
3. Prepare White Layer:
While the blue layer sets, you can work on the white layer. In a saucepan, combine the vanilla gelatin and sweetened condensed milk with 1/2 cup boiling water. Stir over low heat until everything is completely dissolved. Once mixed, remove it from heat and let it cool until it reaches room temperature.
4. Mixing the White Layer:
After the mixture cools, add in 1/4 cup vodka and gently stir. Now, it’s time to pour this over the blue layer, filling another 1/3 of each cup. Place the cups back in the fridge and chill until this layer sets, about another 30 minutes.
5. Prepare Red Layer:
Now it’s time for the red layer! In another bowl, dissolve the strawberry or cherry Jello in 1/2 cup boiling water. Stir well and then mix in 1/4 cup vodka. Let it cool to room temperature before using.
6. Finished Red Layer:
Once the red mixture has cooled down, and the white layer is set, gently spoon the red mixture over the white layer until the cups are filled to the top.
7. Final Chill:
Refrigerate the jello shots until they are completely set, allowing at least 1-2 hours for this to happen.
8. Decorating:
When you’re ready to serve, you can optionally sprinkle some red, white, and blue star-shaped sprinkles on the red layer for that extra festive touch.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these delicious and colorful jello shots chilled, and enjoy responsibly at your next celebration!
This layered jello shot has a beautiful patriotic appearance, making it a perfect treat for holidays like the 4th of July or Memorial Day. Have fun creating and enjoying these festive shots!
FAQ for Easy Patriotic American Flag Jello Shots
Can I Use Non-Alcoholic Ingredients?
Absolutely! You can replace the vodka with extra cold water or use a flavored fruit juice to maintain the sweetness while keeping it family-friendly. They’ll still look and taste great!
How Long Do These Jello Shots Last in the Fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, these jello shots will last about 3-5 days in the fridge. Just make sure they are kept chilled until serving!
Can I Use Different Flavors of Jello?
Yes! Feel free to mix and match flavors as you like. Just keep the colors in mind for the patriotic theme. Any bright, fruity flavors will work well!
How Do I Avoid Mixing the Layers?
To ensure your layers stay distinct, allow each layer to set completely before adding the next one (about 30 minutes works well). Also, pour the next layer gently over the back of a spoon to minimize splashing and mixing.
