If you’re on the hunt for a festive twist that brings together holiday cheer and a burst of fun flavor, this Candy Cane Jello Shots Recipe might just become your new party favorite. Combining the creamy sweetness of condensed milk, the refreshing zing of peppermint schnapps, and the nostalgic red glow of cherry jello, these shots are as delightful to look at as they are to sip. Whether you’re gearing up for a holiday get-together or just want to add some sparkle to a winter evening, this recipe promises a juicy pop of peppermint-infused joy in every bite-sized sip.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is a breeze for this Candy Cane Jello Shots Recipe. Each one plays a critical role in creating a festive balance of creamy texture, smooth spirits, bright color, and that unmistakable holiday minty flavor that makes these shots stand out.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds a luscious creaminess that softens the tartness of the jello and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- Sugar: Enhances sweetness and balances the refreshing mint notes.
- Peppermint Schnapps: Provides that iconic cool peppermint punch every shot needs for a real candy cane vibe.
- Vanilla Vodka: Offers a smooth base spirit with a subtle vanilla hint that complements the peppermint perfectly.
- Gelatin Packets: Essential for setting the jello shots into perfect, wobble-worthy bites.
- Cherry Jello Packet: Gives a vibrant red color that instantly evokes the holiday spirit and adds a fruity shimmer.
- Whipped Cream: Optional topping for that extra festive and creamy finish.
- Crushed Candy Canes: Adds a crunchy, festive garnish that reinforces the peppermint theme and looks beautiful on top.
How to Make Candy Cane Jello Shots Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Jello Base
Start by boiling a cup of water, then stirring in the cherry jello packet and sugar until fully dissolved. The hot water is crucial for activating the gelatin, ensuring your shots will set properly while preserving that signature cherry color and taste.
Step 2: Mix in Creamy and Alcoholic Ingredients
Once the jello mixture is cool but not fully set, stir in the sweetened condensed milk, peppermint schnapps, and vanilla vodka. Mixing these in at the right moment keeps the texture smooth and creamy while infusing the shots with a perfect peppermint and vanilla spirit blend—making these jello shots uniquely festive.
Step 3: Pour and Chill
Carefully pour the liquid mixture into shot-sized cups or molds, then place them in the refrigerator. Let the shots chill for at least four hours or until they are firm to the touch. Patience here rewards you with perfectly set, jiggly jello shots that hold their shape but burst with flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, top each jello shot with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes. This adds a delightfully creamy top layer and a festive crunch that heightens the candy cane theme and delivers a beautiful presentation.
How to Serve Candy Cane Jello Shots Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing with whipped cream and crushed candy canes is the classic way to serve these shots, perfectly balancing creamy sweetness with a minty crunch. You can also try adding a small peppermint stick as a stirrer or a tiny piece of fresh mint for an extra pop of green and freshness that elevates the visual appeal.
Side Dishes
While these Candy Cane Jello Shots Recipe treats are the stars of any holiday gathering, pairing them with light, complementary snacks such as gingerbread cookies, chocolate-dipped pretzels, or even peppermint bark creates a seamless festive experience. These sides echo the peppermint theme and keep things deliciously cohesive.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation twist, line up the jello shots in a festive tray filled with crushed ice or arrange them in a candy cane shape on a serving platter. Using mini mason jars or colored shot glasses adds a personal touch, making your guests feel extra special and turning your party into a snazzy holiday celebration.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep any leftover Candy Cane Jello Shots Recipe shots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to protect them from odors and keep them chilled to maintain their texture and flavor. The jello stays firm and festive, ready whenever you need a quick holiday pick-me-up.
Freezing
Freezing these jello shots is not recommended because the gelatin structure can break down when frozen and thawed, resulting in a loss of the ideal jiggle and texture. To enjoy the best experience, it’s best to consume them within a few days of preparation.
Reheating
Since these are meant to be served cold and jiggly, reheating is not applicable. They’re perfect straight from the fridge, chilled to refreshing perfection, so pop them out and serve cold for that delightful candy cane peppermint burst every time.
FAQs
Can I make these jello shots without alcohol?
Absolutely! You can swap the peppermint schnapps and vanilla vodka for peppermint extract and vanilla extract combined with an extra 1/2 cup of water or juice. This keeps the festive flavor without the buzz, making it perfect for any crowd.
What if I don’t have peppermint schnapps? Can I use something else?
If peppermint schnapps isn’t available, try using a peppermint extract combined with a neutral spirit like vodka to maintain the minty kick. Just be cautious with extract amounts as they are more concentrated than schnapps.
How long do these jello shots last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, your Candy Cane Jello Shots Recipe can last up to three days for the best texture and taste. After that, the gelatin might start to degrade and the alcohol flavors can become more pronounced.
Can I use sugar-free jello or gelatin?
Yes, sugar-free gelatin or jello can be used, but keep in mind it will alter the sweetness and texture slightly. You may want to adjust the sugar levels accordingly to keep that perfect balance in flavor and consistency.
Is it possible to make these shots in larger cups for a party punch?
Definitely! Just scale up the ingredients and pour the mixture into larger cups or a punch bowl. While you lose the fun shot-size portion, it becomes a festive punch with the same delightful flavors to share.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got the full scoop on this irresistible Candy Cane Jello Shots Recipe, it’s time to grab your ingredients and bring some holiday sparkle to your next gathering. These jello shots are the perfect blend of creamy, minty, and spirited fun that’s guaranteed to get everyone smiling and celebrating. Cheers to festive flavors and unforgettable parties—go ahead, treat yourself and your friends to this joyous, candy cane-inspired delight!
Print
Candy Cane Jello Shots Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 shots
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Candy Cane Jello Shots are a festive and fun holiday treat that combines the refreshing flavors of peppermint and cherry with a creamy twist. Perfect for holiday parties, these shots feature layers of cherry-flavored gelatin infused with peppermint schnapps and vanilla vodka, topped with whipped cream and crushed candy canes for a delightful seasonal dessert.
Ingredients
Jello Mixture
- 1 packet Cherry Jello
- 2 packets Gelatin
- 3 tbsp Sugar
- 1 cup Peppermint schnapps
- 1 cup Vanilla vodka
Cream Layer
- 3 tbsp Sweetened Condensed Milk
Toppings
- Whipped Cream
- Crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Prepare the gelatin base: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherry Jello, gelatin packets, sugar, and 1 cup of water. Stir constantly until fully dissolved and the mixture starts to bubble gently.
- Add alcohol and cooled mixture: Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Stir in the peppermint schnapps and vanilla vodka along with the sweetened condensed milk, mixing well to combine. Pour the mixture evenly into shot glasses or small cups.
- Chill the shots: Refrigerate the filled shot glasses for at least 4-6 hours or until the gelatin has fully set and is firm to the touch.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, top each jello shot with a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle with crushed candy canes for a festive finish.
Notes
- To make these jello shots non-alcoholic, substitute the peppermint schnapps and vodka with peppermint extract and vanilla extract, adjusting quantities to taste.
- Ensure the gelatin mixture is not too hot before adding the alcohol to prevent burning off the alcohol content.
- For extra festive presentation, use red and green shot glasses or rim the glasses with crushed candy canes before pouring the gelatin mixture.
- Consume responsibly, as these shots contain alcohol.
