Looking for a fun patriotic party drink? These Red, White and Blue Jello Shots are sweet, boozy, colorful, and perfect for summer celebrations.
Layered Jello shots are always a crowd-pleaser, especially when they are served in clear shot glasses and finished with whipped cream and festive sprinkles. This easy recipe keeps the process simple while still giving you a bright red, white, and blue look that is ideal for Independence Day, Memorial Day, backyard barbecues, and holiday parties.
Instead of making a separate white Jello layer, this recipe uses whipped cream on top. It is quicker, easier, and adds a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the fruity Jello layers. It also keeps the ingredient list short, so you can make these party-ready shots without spending too much time in the kitchen.
With just five main ingredients, these patriotic Jello shots are simple to prepare ahead of time. The key is allowing each layer to set properly before adding the next one. Once chilled, they are sweet, refreshing, and ready to serve.
Red, White & Blue Jello Shots Ingredients
You only need a few ingredients to make these layered red, white, and blue Jello shots. Since the layers need time to set, it is best to measure and prepare everything before you begin.
- Red Jello. Strawberry, raspberry, cherry, or cranberry Jello will work. Strawberry and raspberry are especially good with the blue berry flavor. Sugar-free Jello can also be used.
- Blue Jello. Berry blue Jello gives these shots their bright blue layer. Sugar-free blue Jello also works.
- Whipped cream. This creates the white topping and adds a light, creamy finish.
- Water. Boiling water is needed to dissolve the Jello powder completely.
- Vodka. Plain vodka works well because the Jello already adds plenty of flavor. If using flavored vodka, choose one that pairs well with berry flavors.
Tested Substitutions
Vodka is the easiest choice for these patriotic Jello shots because it blends smoothly with the fruity flavors. Other clear liquors can be used, but stronger spirits will make the alcohol flavor much more noticeable.
Everclear and tequila have also been tested successfully in this recipe. If you choose either one, make sure it is ice-cold before mixing it with the hot Jello mixture.
For a non-alcoholic version, replace the vodka with ice-cold water. The result is a colorful layered Jello treat that works well for guests who do not drink alcohol.
Patriotic Jello Shots Tips and Tricks
Jello Requires Hot and Cold
The secret to smooth, firm Jello shots is using both boiling water and ice-cold vodka. The boiling water dissolves the Jello powder, while the cold vodka helps the mixture cool down and set properly.
Bring the water to a boil, remove it from the heat, and whisk in the Jello powder until fully dissolved. Then pour the hot Jello mixture into the ice-cold vodka and stir until combined.
If you store vodka in the freezer, it will already be cold enough. If not, measure it out and place it in the freezer while you prepare the boiling water. Use this same method for both the red and blue layers.
Make the red layer first and let it set before preparing the blue layer. If the blue Jello mixture is made too early, it may begin to firm up before you are ready to pour it into the shot glasses.
Be Patient
Clean, distinct layers depend on patience. The first layer must be firm before the second layer is added. If the red Jello is still soft, the blue layer may sink into it and blur the colors.
After pouring the red Jello mixture into the shot glasses, place them in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This helps the first layer set quickly. Once it is firm, prepare the blue Jello mixture and let it cool for a couple of minutes before pouring it over the red layer.
Do not fill the glasses all the way to the top with the blue layer. Leave a little space for whipped cream and sprinkles so each shot has the full red, white, and blue effect.
How to Store and Save Jello Shots
These red, white, and blue Jello shots can be made ahead, which makes them convenient for parties. Covered Jello shots will keep in the refrigerator for up to ten days. However, whipped cream is best within 2 to 3 days.
For the freshest texture and best presentation, add the whipped cream and sprinkles just before serving. This keeps the topping light and prevents the sprinkles from bleeding color into the cream.
This recipe makes 6 Jello shots. You can scale it up to make up to 24 shots using two 3-ounce boxes of Jello powder. If using a full box of Jello powder, use 1 cup of boiling water and 1 cup of ice-cold vodka.
Why You Should Make These Red White & Blue Jello Shots
- They are festive. The red, white, and blue colors make them perfect for patriotic holidays.
- They are easy to make. You only need a few ingredients and about 10 minutes of hands-on prep time.
- They taste like a party treat. Fruity Jello, vodka, whipped cream, and sprinkles make every shot fun and flavorful.
5-Ingredient Red White & Blue Jello Shots
Equipment
- Shot glasses
- Measuring cup with a spout
Ingredients
Red Jello Layer
- 2 tablespoons red Jello powder
- ¼ cup boiling water
- ¼ cup vodka (ice cold)
Blue Jello Layer
- 2 tablespoons blue Jello powder
- ¼ cup boiling water
- ¼ cup vodka (ice cold)
- 3 tablespoons whipped cream
- 2 tablespoons red, white, and blue sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
Red Jello Layer
- Measure ¼ cup vodka and place it in the freezer until ice cold.
- Bring ¼ cup water to a boil. Remove from heat, add the red Jello powder, and whisk until fully dissolved.
- Pour the hot red Jello mixture into the ice-cold vodka and stir until combined.
- Pour the red mixture into shot glasses, filling each one about one-third to halfway. Freeze for about 30 minutes, or until set.
Blue Jello Layer
- Measure another ¼ cup vodka and place it in the freezer until ice cold.
- Once the red layer is firm, bring ¼ cup water to a boil. Remove from heat, add the blue Jello powder, and whisk until dissolved.
- Stir the hot blue Jello mixture into the ice-cold vodka.
- Let the blue mixture cool briefly, then pour it over the set red layer, leaving room at the top.
- Refrigerate the shots for about 4 hours, or until completely firm.
- Top with whipped cream and optional sprinkles just before serving.
Pro Tips
- For the neatest layers, make sure the red Jello is fully set before adding the blue layer.
- Use ice-cold vodka so the Jello sets properly.
- Add whipped cream and sprinkles right before serving for the best texture and appearance.
- To make 24 shots with two 3-ounce boxes of Jello powder, use 1 cup boiling water and 1 cup ice-cold vodka for each full box.