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Holly Jolly Jello Shots
Holly Jolly Jello Shots are a fun, festive treat perfect for holiday parties. Easy to make, colorful, and full of bold flavors!
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These Holly Jolly Jello Shots are a fun and festive treat perfect for your next holiday party! With bright colors and bold flavors, they’re sure to be a hit with your guests. These jello shots come together easily and are a sweet addition to your celebration. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite toppings for an extra splash of fun.
This recipe is super easy to make, and you can follow the guide below for perfect results every time. We’ve included step-by-step photos and directions, along with pro tips and tricks to help you out. You’ll also find answers to the most frequently asked recipe questions so you can make these jello shots like a pro!
More Recipes ⭐ Strawberry Jello Pie | Strawberry Mouse | Peach Jello Shots
These Holly Jolly Jello Shots are the perfect festive treat for any holiday party. You can whip them up in just fifteen minutes, and they chill to perfection. Their bright colors, fun flavors, and customizable toppings make them stand out on any dessert table.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or bringing a fun treat to a potluck, these jello shots are a sweet way to celebrate!
Ingredients
What you'll need to make this Holly Jolly Jello Shots recipe:
- 6 cups boiling water, divided into 2 cups, 1 cup, 1 cup, 1 cup, and 1 cup
- 6 (0.25-ounce) packets of unflavored gelatin, divided into 2 packets, 1 packet, 1 packet, 1 packet, and 1 packet
- 1 (14-ounce) can of sweetened condensed milk
- 1½ cups of vodka, divided into four ¼-cup portions plus ½ cup
- 2 (3-ounce) boxes of raspberry-flavored jello gelatin
- 2 (3-ounce) boxes of lime-flavored jello gelatin
- Garnish: squirt whipped topping, red/white/green holiday sprinkles, or red & green colored Skittles candies
Substitutions and Additions
Personalize your Holly Jolly Jello Shots recipe by swapping out ingredients and adding fun extras! These simple changes can make your jello shots uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions:
Add Toppings: Garnish your jello shots with whipped cream, sprinkles, or candy canes to make them even more festive.
Substitute Alcohol: Use flavored vodka or rum instead of plain vodka for an extra burst of flavor in your jello shots.
Substitute Gelatin: Swap regular gelatin with flavored gelatin to add unique flavors like berry or lime to your Holly Jolly Jello Shots.
How to Make Holly Jolly Jello Shots
Follow along with our pictures and step-by-step instructions for how to make Christmas Jello Shots perfectly. Don’t forget to check out the tips and tricks below for extra help. Let’s get started and make these fun holiday treats!
Pro Tip
Remember that when serving these holly jolly jello shots, they should be labeled for adults only. You can make these kid-friendly by omitting the vodka and replacing it with cold water in the recipe.
FIRST STEP: In an 8-cup, microwave-safe, spouted measuring cup, add two cups of water then microwave on high for four minutes to boil the water.
Add two of the (0.25-ounce) packets of unflavored gelatin to the hot water and whisk until completely dissolved.
Whisk in the sweetened condensed milk and ½ cup of vodka until completely smooth and the sweetened condensed milk is thinned out.
Divide this mixture into three equal portions (approximately 1½ cups each), then set aside to cool.
Pro Tip
A dinner fork works great to whisk the ingredients in a smaller vessel like the 2-cup spouted measuring cup. If you notice that your flavored gelatin starts to thicken a little while it is cooling on the counter, then give it a quick whisk with the fork. You don’t want little lumps in your layers.
SECOND STEP: In a 2-cup, microwave-safe spouted measuring cup, add one cup of water and place it in the microwave on high for three minutes.
Sprinkle in one (0.25-ounce) packet of unflavored gelatin and whisk until completely dissolved.
Add one (3-ounce) box of raspberry-flavored gelatin, then whisk to combine. Finally, add ¼ cup vodka and whisk to combine.
THIRD STEP: Pour the raspberry gelatin into a thin layer on the bottom of a 9×13-inch glass baking dish.
Carefully transfer it to a flat surface in the refrigerator and allow it to chill and set up for 45 minutes.
Pro Tip
Make sure that each layer has set up pretty firm before adding the next layer. It may take slightly longer for each of your layers to firm up, but it is very important so that the final product has very distinguishable layers. Pour slowly to ensure that you do not disturb the layer underneath.
STEP FOUR: Once you have finished preparing your first red layer, you want to wash your measuring cup and prepare your lime (green) layer so that it has time to cool off, on the counter, before adding it to the layers of holly jolly jello shots.
You DO NOT want to add hot or warm jello to the dish of layers because it can melt the layer you are pouring it onto, thus ruining the layered look of the holly jolly jello shots.
FIFTH STEP: Prepare your lime (green) gelatin by following Step two, except you will replace the raspberry with the lime gelatin. Set aside to cool off once mixed.
You will repeat this step after making each layer alternating between raspberry and ending with lime. Make sure to wash your measuring cup between flavors.
SIXTH STEP: Once your raspberry layer has chilled and set up, carefully pour on one of your (1¼ cup) portions of the sweetened condensed milk mixture.
Place the dish back into the refrigerator to chill and set up for 45 minutes.
SEVENTH STEP: Add your pre-mixed lime (green) jello mixture on top of the white layer, then chill for 45 minutes.
EIGHTH STEP: Make your second (3-ounce) box of the raspberry (red) layer and set it aside to cool on the counter.
NINTH STEP: Add the second 1¼-cup sweetened condensed milk mixture. Give it a quick stir before pouring if it has started to firm a little so you don’t have lumps.
Chill for 45 minutes.
TENTH STEP: Carefully pour on the premade raspberry layer. Chill for 45 minutes.
ELEVENTH STEP: Make your final (3-ounce) box of the lime (green) mixture and set it aside to cool on the counter.
TWELFTH STEP: Add the final 1¼-cup portion of the sweetened condensed milk mixture to the dish. Chill for 45 minutes.
THIRTEENTH STEP: Pour on the final mixture of lime-flavored gelatin. This will be your top layer.
At this point, you will want your holly jolly jello shots to have a good amount of chill time.
We highly suggest an overnight chill in the refrigerator, but a minimum of six hours is needed to really make sure that all of the layers have set up and are firm.
Pro Tip
Once your holly jolly jello shots have firmed up, you can slice them in the dish into squares. Carefully remove the individual squares and place them onto a large serving platter.
Squirt a small amount of whipped topping onto the center of each square serving and top with either the holiday sprinkles or a green or red candy.
How To Serve Holly Jolly Jello Shots
This Christmas Jello Shots recipe is perfect for any festive occasion. Whether you’re hosting an adult party or adding some fun to the holiday season, they’re sure to impress! Here are three fun ways to serve them:
- Holiday Parties: These colorful jello shots are great for Christmas or New Year’s celebrations. Their bright colors and sweet flavors fit right into any festive gathering. Pair them with sugar cookies or chocolate truffles for a sweet treat table.
- Summer BBQs: Serve these chilled jello shots at your next summer cookout. Their refreshing and fruity flavors are a hit in hot weather. They go perfectly with grilled burgers or fresh fruit salad.
- Adult-Only Gatherings: These layered jello shots are designed for grown-ups with their boozy twist. They add a fun and playful touch to any adult event. Complement them with savory appetizers like mini quiches or cheese platters.
Why You'll Love This Holly Jolly Jello Shots Recipe
Christmas themed Jello Shots are a holiday favorite for so many exciting reasons. Here's why our readers can’t get enough:
- Festive and Fun: These holiday jello shots are bursting with bright colors and bold flavors that perfectly match the holiday spirit. Each shot is a sweet, boozy treat that adds excitement to any gathering.
- Quick and Easy to Make: You can whip up these jello shots in just fifteen minutes, making them a simple yet impressive party treat. Their ease means more time for fun!
- Perfect for Celebrations: These jello shots bring a playful twist to any event, making them a must-have at parties and gatherings. They’re the ultimate party-starter!
This easy recipe for Jello shots is a delightful and simple way to spread holiday cheer!
Recipe FAQ
How long do Holly Jolly Jello Shots take to set?
These jello shots typically take two to four hours to set in the fridge, depending on your gelatin and alcohol ratio.
Can I make Holly Jolly Jello Shots in different shapes?
Yes! You can pour the jello mixture into fun molds like stars or holiday-themed shapes for added festive fun.
How do I get a smooth top on my jello shots?
To get a smooth top, allow the mixture to settle in the fridge for a few minutes before covering with plastic wrap.
Can I make these Holly Jolly Jello Shots kid-friendly?
Yes, you can make these jello shots kid friendly. Simply replace the alcohol with juice or flavored soda to create a fun, non-alcoholic version for everyone to enjoy.
Serving FAQ
How should I serve Holly Jolly Jello Shots at a party?
Serve these holiday jello shots in small cups or festive molds, making them easy for guests to grab and enjoy.
Can I garnish Holly Jolly Jello Shots?
Yes! Add whipped cream, festive sprinkles, or candy canes on top to make them even more fun and eye-catching.
How many jello shots should I plan for each guest?
Plan for each guest to have two to three shots, depending on the size of your party and other drinks available.
Should Holly Jolly Jello Shots be served cold?
Yes, always serve jello shots chilled. They taste best and maintain their texture when kept in the fridge until ready to serve.
Storage FAQ
Follow the tips and directions below for optimal storage of your Holly Jolly Jello Shots. From making ahead to serving them perfectly chilled, we’ve got everything covered to ensure your shots are a hit at your next party.
Can I prepare Holly Jolly Jello Shots ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the jello shots up to two days in advance. Store them in the fridge until ready to serve.
What’s the best way to store leftover Jello Shots?
Store leftover jello shots in the fridge, covered tightly with plastic wrap or lids so they stay fresh. They will last for up to three days.
Is it possible to freeze these Jello Shots?
No, freezing jello shots is not recommended since they will not thaw properly. The texture changes when frozen and they won’t set properly.
How should I serve Holly Jolly Jello Shots after storing them?
Serve the shots chilled directly from the fridge. Keep them cold until ready to enjoy for the best texture.
Holly Jolly Jello Shots
Holly Jolly Jello Shots are a fun, festive treat perfect for holiday parties. Easy to make, colorful, and full of bold flavors!
Did you try this recipe?Let our readers know how it turned out by Leaving a Review!
Ingredients
- 6 cups boiling water (divided into 2 cups, 1 cup, 1 cup, 1 cup, and 1 cup)
- 1.5 ounces unflavored gelatin (divided (6 packets))
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 1½ cups vodka (divided into four portions of ¼ cup plus ½ cup)
- 6 ounces raspberry-flavored jello gelatin
- 6 ounces lime-flavored jello gelatin
- squirt whipped topping (for garnish (red/white/green holiday sprinkles, or red & green colored Skittles candies make great garnishes))
DIRECTIONS
- In an 8-cup, microwave-safe, spouted measuring cup, add 2 cups of water and microwave on high for 4 minutes to boil the water. Add 2 of the (0.25-ounce) packets of unflavored gelatin to the hot water and whisk until completely dissolved. Whisk in the sweetened condensed milk and ½ cup vodka until completely smooth, and the sweetened condensed milk is thinned out. Divide this mixture into three equal portions (approximately 1½ cups each). Set aside to cool.
- In a 2-cup, microwave-safe spouted measuring cup, add 1 cup of water and microwave on high for 3 minutes. Sprinkle in 1 (0.25-ounce) packet of unflavored gelatin and whisk until completely dissolved. Add 1 (3-ounce) box of raspberry-flavored gelatin and whisk to combine. Finally, add ¼ cup of vodka and whisk to combine.
- Pour the raspberry gelatin into a thin layer on the bottom of a 9×13 glass baking dish. Carefully transfer to a flat surface in the refrigerator and allow it to chill and set up for 45 minutes.
- Once you have finished preparing your first raspberry (red) layer, then you will want to wash your measuring cup and prepare your lime (green) layer so that it has time to cool off on the counter, before adding it to the layers of holly jolly jello shots. You DO NOT want to add hot or warm jello to the dish of layers because it can melt the layer you are pouring it onto, thus ruining the layered look of the holly jolly jello shots.
- Prepare your lime (green) gelatin by following step 2, except you will replace the raspberry with the lime gelatin. Set aside to cool off once mixed. You will repeat this step after making each layer alternating between raspberry and ending with the lime. Make sure to wash your measuring cup between flavors.
- Once your raspberry layer has chilled and set up, carefully pour on one of your (1¼ cup) portions of the sweetened condensed milk mixture. Place the dish back into the refrigerator to chill and set up for 45 minutes.
- Add your pre-mixed lime (green) gelatin mixture. Chill for 45 minutes.
- Make your second (3-ounce box) raspberry (red) layer and set it aside to cool on the counter.
- Add the second 1¼-cup sweetened condensed milk mixture (give it a quick stir before pouring if it has started to firm a little, so you don’t have lumps). Chill for 45 minutes
- Carefully pour on the premade raspberry layer. Chill for 45 minutes.
- Make your final (3-ounce) box of the lime (green) mixture and set it aside to cool on the counter.
- Add the final 1¼-cup portion of the sweetened condensed milk mixture to the dish. Chill for 45 minutes.
- Pour on the final mixture of lime-flavored gelatin. This will be your top layer. At this point, you will want your holly jolly jello shots to have a good amount of chill time. I highly suggest an overnight chill in the refrigerator, but a minimum of 6 hours is needed to really make sure that all of the layers have set up and are firm.
Notes
- These holly jolly jello shots take quite some time to assemble, so we suggest making them the day before you plan to serve them, as they will do best if they have plenty of time to chill in the refrigerator. Don’t rush the process, or your layers will mix, and you will not get the pretty layered look you are aiming for.
- Remember that when serving these holly jolly jello shots, they should be labeled for adults only. You can make these kid-friendly by omitting the vodka and replacing it with cold water in the recipe.
- Make sure that each layer has set up pretty firm before adding the next layer. It may take slightly longer for each of your layers to firm up, but it is very important so that the final product has very distinguishable layers.
- Pour slowly to ensure that you do not disturb the layer underneath.
- Once your holly jolly jello shots have firmed up, you can slice them in the dish into squares. Carefully remove the individual squares and place them onto a large serving platter. Squirt a small amount of whipped topping onto the center of each square serving and top with either the holiday sprinkles or a green or red candy.
Nutrition
Calories: 111kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.04g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 4mg | Sodium: 70mg | Potassium: 47mg | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 33IU | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Calcium: 38mg | Iron: 0.1mg
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