What if your next Independence Day bash had a dessert so eye-catching, guests couldn’t stop Instagramming it? These 4th of July Jello Shots are not only a vibrant red, white, and blue treat, but also a simple and delicious party drink that delivers a festive punch. With layers resembling a bomb pop popsicle or exploding fireworks, this patriotic snack is a nostalgic nod to summer fun—but with an adult twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Jello shots are:
- Visually stunning with distinct red, white, and blue layers
- A conversation-starting addition to any holiday gathering
- Easy to make with simple, affordable ingredients
- Perfectly boozy without being overpowering
- Customizable for non-alcoholic versions or other holidays
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or bringing a tray to a fireworks-viewing picnic, these shots will be the star of the table.
Ingredients
Blue Jello Layer:
- 1 box (3 oz) Berry Blue Jello
- 1 cup boiling water
- 3/4 cup cold water
- 1/4 cup vodka
White Layer:
- 1 envelope unflavored gelatin powder
- 1 cup cold water
- 1/2 cup boiling water
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
Red Jello Layer:
- 1 box (3 oz) Cherry Jello
- 1 cup boiling water
- 3/4 cup cold water
- 1 cup lemon-lime soda
How to Make 4th of July Jello Shots
Step 1: Blue Layer
- In a mixing bowl with a pour spout, whisk berry blue Jello with boiling water until fully dissolved.
- Stir in cold water and lemon lime soda.
- Fill 2 oz plastic shot cups 1/3 full with the blue mixture.
- Refrigerate for about 1 hour, or until the layer is fully set.
Step 2: White Layer
- In a clean bowl, whisk unflavored gelatin with cold water until dissolved.
- Add boiling water and whisk again.
- Stir in the sweetened condensed milk.
- Carefully pour the white mixture over the set blue layer to fill another 1/3 of the cup.
- Refrigerate for another hour, or until firm.
Step 3: Red Layer
- In a mixing bowl, dissolve cherry Jello in boiling water.
- Stir in cold water and vodka.
- Pour the red mixture on top of the set white layer to fill the cups.
- Chill for 2-3 hours, or until completely set.
- Cover with lids and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Helpful Tips
- Use a bowl with a spout for precise pouring.
- Chill each layer thoroughly to avoid mixing colors.
- Use a baking sheet to carry and store the shots in the fridge.
- Want sharper lines between layers? Let each layer set overnight.
Substitutions And Variations
- Alcohol-free: Replace vodka with cold water or lemon-lime soda.
- Different colors: Swap out Jello flavors to match other holiday themes (e.g., green and red for Christmas).
- Boozier shots: Increase vodka slightly but reduce the cold water to maintain firmness.
- Coconut milk: Use instead of sweetened condensed milk for a dairy-free white layer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare them up to 3 days in advance and store them covered in the fridge.
Can I use different alcohols? Absolutely. Flavored vodkas, rum, or even tequila can be used to suit your taste.
How do I transport them? Keep them in a cooler with ice or frozen gel packs to maintain their shape.
Storage Instructions
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Do not freeze, as the gelatin may separate or become grainy when thawed.
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Conclusion
These 4th of July Jello Shots are as festive as they are flavorful, making them a perfect centerpiece for any Independence Day celebration. With their striking layers and simple prep, they’re bound to impress your guests while keeping the holiday vibe high. Give them a try this summer, and don’t forget to share your creations and tag us in your party pics!
Ready to fire up your Fourth? Make these patriotic Jello shots today and let the celebration begin!
Print
4th of July Jello Shots Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 40 2-ounce Jello shots 1x
Description
4th of July Jello Shots are the ultimate patriotic party treat—now made non-alcoholic! With red, white & blue layers and kid-friendly ingredients, they’re a fun and festive dessert perfect for all ages. Great for family BBQs, fireworks, and summer get-togethers. Make a tray and celebrate in style!
Ingredients
Blue Layer:
1 box (3 oz) Berry Blue Jello
1 cup boiling water
1 cup cold water or lemon-lime soda
White Layer:
1 envelope unflavored gelatin powder
1 cup cold water
1/2 cup boiling water
1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
Red Layer:
1 box (3 oz) Cherry Jello
1 cup boiling water
1 cup cold water or lemon-lime soda
Instructions
-
Blue Layer: Dissolve berry blue Jello in boiling water. Stir in cold water or soda. Fill 2 oz shot cups 1/3 full and chill for 1 hour.
-
White Layer: Mix unflavored gelatin with cold water until dissolved. Add boiling water and stir in sweetened condensed milk. Pour over blue layer and chill for 1 hour.
-
Red Layer: Dissolve cherry Jello in boiling water. Stir in cold water or soda. Pour over set white layer. Chill 2-3 hours until firm. Cover and refrigerate until serving.
Notes
For best results, let each layer fully set before adding the next.
Lemon-lime soda adds a fizzy kick and extra flavor.
Use a pourable bowl for clean layers.
Safe and fun for kids, perfect for family-friendly gatherings!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: Chill Time: 4 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Jello Shot
- Calories: 38
- Sugar: 7g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 2mg