If you're having a party without Jell-O shots, is it really a party?
As we head into the holiday season, we like to get to eating, drinking, and being as merry as much as we can. Here at Delish, that absolutely includes making a round of these festive holiday Jell-O shots to keep our Christmas/Hanukkah/Kwanzaa parties going. Before you turn up your nose, take a look at these 33 truly spirited shots recipes that are a far cry from any college-era shots you might have mixed. Dare we say it, shots can be kinda fancy? All we're saying is, don't be surprised if you have to make a double batch of mistletoe shots, peppermint bark shots, and negroni Jell-O shots at your next Christmas party!
If you're new to mixing shots, here's our handy guide on how to make Jell-O shots that will have you feeling like a pro in no time. In their most simple form, these shots only require three ingredients: Jell-O powder, hot water, and your alcohol of choice. With those ingredients on hand, you can get to making all kinds of different flavors. Want something tart or refreshing? Our cranberry Jell-O shots and Champagne Jell-O shots are just the thing. How about something decadent? Our recipes for eggnog Jell-O shots and s'mores pudding shots are the easiest way to get on the naughty list.
What we love the most about shots is how efficient they are. You can make a big batch ahead of time, which will take you off of bartending duty all night. What that means is now you'll have all the more time to spend with your family (and likely a plate of appetizers).
Looking for more ways to indulge this holiday season? Check out all of our favorite big-batch Christmas punch recipes and holiday co*cktails.
1
Peppermint Bark Shots
We look forward to peppermint bark season all year long. These shots taste a lot like the real thing, only way more boozy. Sweet, minty, and creamy, be warned: These go down easy, but they’re just as strong as your average shot.
Get the Peppermint Bark Shots recipe.
2
Tiramisu Shots
If tiramisu is your favorite dessert (ours too!), then you will go crazy for these shots. It takes a delicate pour to layer them perfectly, but it makes for the cutest presentation and resembles the layers tiramisu has.
Get the Tiramisu Shots recipe.
3
Milk & Cookies Shots
Let's just say, if you leave these for Santa on Christmas Eve, you'll definitely be on the nice list. We love the ease of using store-bought cookie dough, but if you've got the time, making chocolate chip cookies from scratch is even better!
Get the .
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4
Eggnog Jell-O Shots
It's not the holidays until the eggnog has been poured, and this year, we're spicing things up a bit. RumChata and brandy ensure these Jell-O shots will make the holidays so much fun.
Get the Eggnog Jell-O Shots recipe.
5
Mistletoe Shots
These shots are bound to make some holiday magic happen! Share one of these with someone you want to kiss.
Get the Mistletoe Shots recipe.
6
Apple Pie Bourbon Shots
If you're truly looking to get your party started this holiday (or if you're a bourbon fan), then these apple pie bourbon shots should be a must-have at your next gathering. All you need are a few ingredients—apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg—to infuse your own bourbon that tastes just like your fave dessert.
Get the Apple Pie Bourbon Shots recipe.
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7
How To Make Jell-O Shots
Want to freestyle your own Jell-O shots? Let's start with the basics: Here's a step-by-step guide to making any kind of Jell-O shot.
Get the How To Make Jell-O Shots recipe.
8
S'mores Pudding Shots
The next best thing to actual s'mores is a pudding shot. It's the best way to feed a crowd with delicious boozy s'mores. Feel free to use regular or vanilla vodka if you can't find marshmallow vodka!
Get the S'mores Pudding Shots recipe.
9
Washington Apple Shot
The Washington Apple Shot is a breed of the Washington Apple co*cktail made with whiskey—typically Canadian-style—apple schnapps, and cranberry juice. We added pomegranate to jazz it up! It’s a drink that’s crisp, pungent, and refreshing, one that you want to sip on for a little while.
Get the Washington Apple Shot recipe.
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10
Candy Cane Jell-O Shots
For when you need a little more jingle in your step, these will surely do it. 😉
Get the Candy Cane Jell-O Shots recipe.
11
Santa Hat Jell-O Shots
A Christmas party wouldn't be complete without Santa, and these Jell-O shots are the perfect way to include him. Strawberries and and Cool Whip turn a simple Jell-O shot into a festive holiday one.
Get the Santa Hat Jell-O Shots recipe.
12
Christmas Jell-O Shots
These will surely have everyone feeling merry in no time. If you're not a fan of vodka, feel free to swap in tequila.
Get the Christmas Jell-O Shots recipe.
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13
Negroni Jell-O Shots
Stunning, isnt it? It was only a matter of time we made a party-ready take on the Negroni. We even finished these off with an orange peel for that classic Negroni touch.
Get the Negroni Jell-O Shots recipe.
14
Cherry Pie Shots
You know what's better than cherry pie? Cherry pie shots!
Get the Cherry Pie Shots recipe.
15
Cranberry Jell-O Shots
Cranberry sauce? We thought you said "cranberry shots." We love these tart-sweet Jell-O shots, especially the sugar-coated cranberries. They're optional but highly encouraged—they make for a great chaser after you've downed the shot.
Get the Cranberry Jell-O Shots recipe.
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16
Big-Batch Fireball Jell-O Shots
This spiced cherry big-batch shot is drinks and dessert—all in one. We call that a 2-for-1 special.
Get the Big-Batch Fireball Jell-O Shots recipe.
17
Hot Cocoa Pudding Shots
Enjoy your favorite winter drink as a pudding shot (mini marshmallows included)!
Get the Hot Cocoa Pudding Shots recipe.
18
Pumpkin Pie Shots
Good luck going back to regular pumpkin pie after these.
Get the Pumpkin Pie Shots recipe.
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19
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Jell-O Shots
Everyone loves a chocolate-covered strawberry, and turning them into Jell-O shots makes them even better! Use your favorite liquor for the Jell-O shots. We went with vodka because it's our fave, but tequila would be amazing too!
Get the Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Jell-O Shots recipe.
20
Apple Caramel Pie Shots
It's literally everything you love in one pie crust.
Get the Apple Caramel Pie Shots recipe.
