Why I love these raspberry lemonade Jello shots
These easy raspberry lemonade jello shots are the perfect mix of sweet, tart, and boozy fun, making them a hit at any gathering.
The delightful combination of red raspberry jello, refreshing lemonade, and a kick of citron vodka creates a flavor profile that’s both refreshing and irresistible.
Not only do they taste amazing, but their vibrant color also makes them a visually stunning addition to your party spread.
They’re incredibly simple to whip up and can be made ahead of time, which means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the festivities.
Plus, their portability and ease of serving means you can take them with you to a potluck. And you don’t have to worry about them spilling.
Whether you’re looking for a fun way to spice up your social gathering or just want to serve something that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, these raspberry jello shots with vodka promise to deliver on all fronts.
More refreshing summer Jello shot recipes
Ingredients
Here is your shopping list (for 12 Jello shots):
- Jello – 1 3-ounce (small) box Red Raspberry Jello
- Juice – ½ cup lemonade – You can use a store-bought version or make our homemade lemonade recipe.
- Alcohol – ½ cup citron vodka
Substitutions & Additions
- Instead of lemonade: Limeade or Orange juice both pair well with raspberry and can be used instead of lemonade.
- Vodka replacement: If you don’t have citron vodka, you can use plain vodka. However, the Jello shots won’t taste as lemon-y. Or for even more raspberry flavor, try using raspberry vodka.
- How to make them stronger (or weaker): You can make the Jello shots stronger or weaker by increasing or decreasing the amount of alcohol and juice you add. Just make sure that the total amount of lemonade plus vodka doesn’t come out to more than 1 cup.
- To make Strawberry Lemonade Jello Shots: You can replace the raspberry Jello with strawberry Jello for a slightly different flavor profile with the same color.
This recipe is naturally dairy-free.
How to make raspberry lemonade Jello shots
1 | Prep work
Lay out 12 to 16 2-ounce Jello shot cups on a tray. The exact number you need will depend on how full you make them.
I usually put out 16 and then put away any that I don’t use. Having a few extra cups out avoids the hassle of needing more mid-process.
The tray isn’t absolutely necessary but it does make transferring the jello shots to the refrigerator much easier. And catches any spills that may occur.
I find that 2-ounce Jello shot cups work best. The one ounce version doesn’t hold enough to be worth the effort. And the 4-ounce ones can be overwhelming for a single serving.2 | Dissolve the Jello
Boil enough water in a kettle or pot to come out with 1 cup.
Mix 1 cup of boiling water with the Jello crystals.
Stir the mixture for about a minute or until the crystals have fully dissolved.
Make sure that the jello crystals have dissolved completely before continuing. Otherwise, your Jello shots may not set.3 | Add alcohol
Add in vodka and lemonade. Stir again.
You can alter the proportion of vodka to lemonade to make the jello shots stronger or weaker. More vodka, less lemonade for strong shots. Less vodka, more lemonade for weak ones.
Ensure the total volume of your cold liquids (vodka and lemonade combined) does not exceed 1 cup.
I like to pour both of these ingredients into a measuring cup before adding it to the Jello mixture. That way I know for sure it comes out to 1 cup of additional liquid.4 | Chill
Pour the raspberry lemonade jello mixture into Jello shot cups.
Using a mixing bowl with a pouring spout will make this job much easier.
If yours does not have a spout, you may want to transfer the liquid into something that does. Otherwise, you’ll probably end up with more sticky Jello mixture on the counter than you will in the shot cups.
Refrigerate for 2 to 4 hours or overnight.
I like to wait until the Jello mixture has cooled completely before putting the lids on. This prevents condensation from building up on the inside. The extra water won’t hurt the Jello shots but it doesn’t look as nice when you’re serving them.
Serving suggestions
I usually serve Jello shots with these mini tasting spoons*.
Most of my friends don’t want to use their tongue or fingers to get the Jello out of the cups. So these are the perfect alternative.
Garnishes
I have to admit that I don’t usually garnish my Jello shots because most of them need to be done close to the start of the party. And I never have the time. But in case you do, here are a few suggestions:
- Fresh Raspberries: Top each jello shot with a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh raspberry to hint at the flavor inside.
- Lemon Zest: Sprinkle a bit of lemon zest over the jello shots before serving for a fragrant and visually appealing touch.
- Mint Leaves: Place a small mint leaf on each jello shot for a refreshing contrast against the sweet and tart flavors.
Storage
Jello shots can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. They will last much longer than that, but they start to lose their flavor and texture after a while.
When I’m serving for a party, I usually make them the day before. So they’re ready in advance but are still fresh.
If you don’t have lids on the Jello shots cups, put them in an airtight container so they don’t absorb unwanted flavors.
Freezing is not recommended as it alters their texture and consistency, making them less enjoyable.
Frequently asked questions
How long do Jello shots take to set?
Typically, it takes about 2 to 4 hours for the jello shots to fully set in the refrigerator. However, I like to make them the day before and let them set overnight. That way there’s less work on the day of the party and I know they’ll be completely firm.
How can I store leftover jello shots and how long will they last?
Leftover jello shots should be stored in the refrigerator. Keep them covered or in an airtight container to prevent them from absorbing any odors. Properly stored, they can last for up to 3 to 5 days before they start to lose their flavor and texture.
Raspberry Lemonade Jello Shots
Ingredients
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 3-ounce (small) box Red Raspberry Jello
- ½ cup lemonade
- ½ cup citron vodka
Equipment
- 12 to 16 2-ounce jello shot cups with lids
- 1 tray (optional) – for transporting the Jello shots to and from the refrigerator
- 1 kettle or pot for boiling water
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 mixing bowl, preferably with a spout to make pouring easier
- mixing spoon
- 12 to 16 mini tasting spoons (optional) – to make eating the jello shots easier
Instructions
- Mix boiling water with the Jello crystals.1 cup boiling water, 1 3-ounce (small) box Red Raspberry Jello
- Stir until completely dissolved about 1 minute.
- Add in vodka and lemonade. Stir again.½ cup lemonade, ½ cup citron vodka
- Pour the raspberry lemonade jello mixture into jello shot cups and put on the lids.
- Refrigerate for 4 hours or until set.
Notes
- Substitute plain vodka if you don’t have citron. Or raspberry vodka for more of a raspberry flavor.
- Putting the Jello shot cups on a tray before you start pouring the Jello will help catch any spills. And make them easy to transport to the refrigerator.
- Make sure the Jello crystals are completely dissolved in the hot water before continuing. Otherwise the Jello shots may not set.
- To prevent condensation inside the Jello shot cups, wait until they have cooled completely before putting the lids on.
Nutrition
Nutrition values are estimates only, using online calculators. Please verify using your own data.
Have comments or questions about our raspberry lemon Jello shots recipe? Tell us in the section below.
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