I crafted these colorful Red, White and Blue Jello Shots as a fun, non-alcoholic treat perfect for patriotic holidays like the 4th of July or Memorial Day. With vibrant layers and sweet flavors, they’re a hit with both kids and adults.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how eye-catching and festive these jello shots turn out—layered red, white, and blue in little cups, making them ideal for parties. They’re alcohol-free, so everyone can enjoy them, and they come together with basic pantry staples and a bit of fridge time.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Blue layer

1 (3 oz) box blue Jell‑O (like berry blue)
1 cup boiling water
1 cup cold water

White layer

2 packets unflavored gelatin (about 0.5 oz total)
½ cup cold water (for blooming)
1 cup boiling water
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

Red layer

1 (3 oz) box red Jell‑O (like cherry or strawberry)
1 cup boiling water
1 cup cold water

Garnish (optional)

Whipped cream or Cool Whip
Red, white, and blue sprinkles

Directions

Blue layer – I dissolved the blue Jell‑O in boiling water, stirred in the cold water, then poured it into small cups, filling each one-third full. I chilled them in the refrigerator for about 2 hours until set.
White layer – I bloomed the unflavored gelatin in cold water, added boiling water, then stirred in the sweetened condensed milk. After it cooled to room temperature, I poured it over the blue layer and chilled it another 2 hours.
Red layer – I repeated the same process with the red Jell‑O as I did for the blue. After letting it cool to room temp, I poured it over the white layer and chilled the cups for a final 2–3 hours or until completely set.
Garnish – Just before serving, I topped each shot with whipped cream and festive sprinkles.

Servings and timing

Yield: About 24 (1 oz) shots
Prep time: 30 minutes
Chill time: About 6–8 hours total

Variations

I sometimes use different jello flavors for unique color combos—like orange and purple for Halloween.
For a dairy-free option, I swap the condensed milk layer with coconut milk and gelatin.
To make them layered in a single large dish instead of cups, I use a square pan and cut them into cubes after chilling.

Storage/Reheating

I keep the jello shots covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
They’re best served chilled and shouldn’t be left out too long, as they’ll soften.

FAQs

How far in advance can I make these jello shots?

I usually make them the day before a party. As long as I keep them covered and chilled, they stay fresh and firm.

Can I skip the white layer?

Yes, I’ve made them with just red and blue layers, and they still look festive—great when I’m short on time.

What type of cups should I use?

I prefer using 1-ounce plastic shot cups because they’re easy to handle and disposable. Mini glass cups also work if I want a fancier presentation.

Can kids eat these?

Absolutely! These are completely alcohol-free and kid-friendly. I always make a batch for family events where everyone can enjoy.

How do I keep the layers from mixing?

I let each layer fully set in the fridge before adding the next. I also cool the next layer to room temperature before pouring it over to avoid melting the previous one.

Conclusion

Making these Red, White and Blue Jello Shots brings a pop of color and sweetness to any party. I love how they’re festive, easy to prepare, and safe for everyone to enjoy. They’ve become a go-to for my holiday spreads, and I always get asked for the recipe!

Red, White and Blue Jello Shots

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews

Author: Sue
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 8 hours
Yield: 24 (1 oz) shots
Category: Dessert
Method: Refrigeration
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Festive, non-alcoholic Red, White and Blue Jello Shots with vibrant layers and sweet flavors, perfect for patriotic holidays like the 4th of July or Memorial Day.

Instructions

Dissolve the blue Jell‑O in 1 cup boiling water, stir in 1 cup cold water, pour into small cups filling one-third full, and chill for about 2 hours until set.
Bloom unflavored gelatin in ½ cup cold water, add 1 cup boiling water, stir in sweetened condensed milk, cool to room temperature, pour over the blue layer, and chill for another 2 hours.
Dissolve the red Jell‑O in 1 cup boiling water, stir in 1 cup cold water, cool to room temperature, pour over the white layer, and chill for 2–3 hours or until completely set.
Before serving, top each shot with whipped cream and red, white, and blue sprinkles if desired.