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Candy Corn Jello Shots Recipe

BySarah
Jump to Recipe· 4.9 from 14 reviews

If you’re looking for the ultimate festive party treat, you’ve got to try my Candy Corn Jello Shots Recipe. These layered beauties not only look like a Halloween dream but taste deliciously smooth with a perfect boozy kick. Trust me, once you make them, they’ll be the highlight of your next gathering—whether it’s a spooky bash or just a fun get-together. Stick with me while I share all my tips and tricks to nail these every single time!

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Layered Appeal: The distinct white, orange, and yellow layers create a stunning visual that’s unmistakably candy corn.
  • Balanced Flavor: Almond extract in the white layer adds a nostalgic candy corn essence without overpowering the boozy jello base.
  • Perfect Texture: Whipped cream folded in each layer smooths out the gelatin, giving a soft, creamy mouthfeel.
  • User-Friendly Method: Simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients make this recipe approachable even if it’s your first time making jello shots.
The image shows several small clear glass cups filled with a layered dessert that has three colors: a pale yellow layer at the bottom, a bright orange layer in the middle, and a slightly darker yellow layer on top. Each cup is topped with a swirl of white whipped cream and decorated with two small candy corns, which are yellow, orange, and white. The cups are placed on a white marbled surface, with some candy corns scattered around. The shot is bright and clear, making the colors of the layers and candies stand out well. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7 this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

The magic of this Candy Corn Jello Shots Recipe lies in the layering and flavor combo. Each layer uses gelatin for the jiggly fun, vodka for the spirited punch, and whipped cream for that flawlessly creamy texture. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why I love each ingredient.

  • Unflavored Gelatin: Vital for that classic jello shot firmness without adding extra flavor—perfect for the white layer’s base.
  • Vodka: The boozy backbone in every layer. I recommend a smooth, neutral vodka to let the flavors shine.
  • Simple Syrup: Adds sweetness without grainy sugar bits, helping the white layer to taste candy-sweet and balanced.
  • Whipped Cream: Lightens the gelatin texture and gives a creamy bite—don’t skip this or your layers will be too dense!
  • Almond Extract: Brings out the nostalgic candy corn flavor in the white layer. You can skip it or swap for other extracts if you want to experiment.
  • Orange Gelatin Mix: The vibrant orange layer—the flavor and color scream Halloween and marry perfectly with the vodka.
  • Yellow Gelatin Mix: Rounds out the trio with a bright yellow hue and a complementary fruity flavor.
  • Boiling & Cold Water: Essential for dissolving gelatin properly and setting the perfect firmness.
  • Candy Corn (optional garnish): Adds that fun finishing touch to scream “candy corn” visually and taste-wise on top.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love a classic version of these jello shots, but don’t feel limited! You can easily make this recipe your own based on your party vibe or dietary needs.

  • Variation: Sometimes I swap out the almond extract for a splash of vanilla or orange extract to compliment the flavors in the jello layers.
  • Dairy-Free Option: You can replace whipped cream with coconut cream to keep these creamy but suitable for dairy sensitivities.
  • Less Boozy Version: If you want a lighter buzz, swap half the vodka with sparkling water—still yummy and festive!

Step-by-Step: How I Make Candy Corn Jello Shots Recipe

Step 1: Bloom Your Gelatin for the White Layer

Start by pouring the vodka into a medium mixing bowl, then sprinkle both packets of unflavored gelatin evenly on top. Give it a light stir just to wet all the gelatin, then let it bloom for about 3-5 minutes. This resting step is crucial because it makes sure your gelatin dissolves well and your texture comes out silky smooth.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients and Whisk Gently

Once the gelatin bloomed, pour in half a cup of freshly boiling water and stir until fully dissolved. Then add your simple syrup for sweetness, the whipped cream, and the almond extract. Whisk gently to blend everything. The key here is a gentle hand—you want the mixture incorporated but not too foamy, or your layers might not set with the right texture.

Step 3: Layer and Chill the White Base

Using an injector or a pourable measuring cup, fill your shot glasses about one-third full with the white layer. Place them on a flat surface in the fridge for about an hour until they’re set but still slightly tacky—this helps the next layer stick without mixing.

Step 4: Make and Add the Orange Layer

Mix the orange gelatin powder with boiling water in a separate bowl until dissolved, then stir in vodka, cold water, and whipped cream. Let the mixture cool for about 15 minutes to avoid melting your white layer. Carefully pour the orange mixture on top of the set white layer, filling another third of the shot glass. Pop them back in the fridge for another hour to firm up.

Step 5: Finish with the Yellow Layer

Repeat the same process with the yellow gelatin: dissolve in boiling water, stir in vodka, cold water, and whipped cream. Let it cool a bit and then pour it in to fill the final third of the glass. Chill again until fully set, about one hour.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once your layers are completely firm, finish each shot with a dollop of whipped cream and a couple of candy corn pieces for that iconic look. Pro tip: wait to garnish until right before serving so the whipped cream stays fresh and the candy corn doesn’t get sticky.

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Pro Tips for Making Candy Corn Jello Shots Recipe

  • Gentle Whisking: I avoid over-whisking the whipped cream into the gelatin to keep a smooth texture without excess foam.
  • Cooling Is Key: Always cool your jello mixtures before layering to prevent melting and messy mixing between colors.
  • Use an Injector: This helps you pour layers precisely without spills or mixing—makes the process so much easier!
  • Garnish Last: Add candy corn and whipped cream only before serving to keep the toppings fresh and picture-perfect.

How to Serve Candy Corn Jello Shots Recipe

The image shows several small clear glasses filled with three layered jelly shots placed on a wooden surface. Each glass has a bottom layer of white jelly, a middle layer of orange jelly, and a top layer of yellow jelly. On top of each glass is a swirl of white whipped cream, with small candy pieces that are orange, yellow, and white, placed for decoration. More of these candy pieces are scattered around the wooden surface. The background features a soft-focused window with green outside light. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I keep it simple and fun with a small dollop of fresh whipped cream topped with two or three candy corn pieces. It’s that classic combo that instantly says “Halloween party,” and adding whipped cream gives a lovely creamy contrast to the jiggly shots.

Side Dishes

These jello shots go great alongside salty snacks like popcorn, pretzels, or a savory cheese and charcuterie board. The salty-sweet combo plays well together, and it’s a party winner every time!

Creative Ways to Present

I’ve served these in clear plastic shot cups for easy grab-and-go, but for a fancy twist, try glass shot glasses with mini spoons on the side. At one Halloween party, I arranged them on a tiered tray decorated with candy corn and mini pumpkins—it was a total showstopper!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store my jello shots uncovered in the fridge for up to two days if I plan to serve them quickly. For longer storage, covering them tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid helps keep them fresh up to five days. Just remember, the whipped cream topping is best added fresh right before you serve.

Freezing

I don’t recommend freezing these jello shots because the texture changes and can become icy and unpleasant. They’re best enjoyed fresh from the fridge within a few days.

Reheating

Luckily, jello shots don’t require reheating—just pop them straight from the fridge to the party table. Warming them up would defeat the whole fun, wobbly texture!

FAQs

  1. Can I make Candy Corn Jello Shots Recipe without alcohol?

    Absolutely! Simply replace the vodka with an equal amount of cold water or a flavored juice to maintain the volume and consistency. Your shots will still have that creamy, fun texture but will be kid-friendly and alcohol-free.

  2. How do I avoid the layers mixing when pouring?

    The key is to pour the next layer only after the previous one is set but still slightly tacky—about 1 hour in the fridge works perfectly. Also, letting your jello mix cool slightly before pouring helps prevent melting the layer below, keeping your colors crisp and defined.

  3. Why does my white layer sometimes look streaky?

    The white layer includes whipped cream, which can sometimes settle into thin lines between layers. This is totally normal and adds to the layered visual effect. If you want solid colors, you can omit whipped cream, but I personally love the creamy contrast it adds.

  4. How long do Candy Corn Jello Shots last in the fridge?

    They’re best enjoyed within 5 days if covered tightly. After that, the texture and flavor might start to decline. I recommend garnishing right before serving to keep everything fresh and tasty.

Final Thoughts

This Candy Corn Jello Shots Recipe has become my go-to for fall and Halloween parties because it’s just so fun to make and share. They bring a pop of color and playful spirit that guests always dig. Give these a whirl, and I promise you’ll be that crowd-pleaser everyone raves about—plus, you’ll get to enjoy some tasty layers yourself. Happy mixing and cheers to your best party yet!

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Candy Corn Jello Shots Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 14 reviews
  • Author: Sarah
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 20 servings
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
Print Recipe

Description

Candy Corn Jello Shots are a festive, colorful party treat inspired by the classic candy corn. These layered gelatin shots combine white, orange, and yellow jello with vodka and whipped cream for a creamy, boozy dessert that’s perfect for Halloween or any celebration. Featuring a white gelatin layer flavored with almond extract, followed by bright orange and yellow layers, topped with whipped cream and candy corn, these fun and easy-to-make shots bring both flavor and visual appeal to your party spread.

Ingredients

White Layer:

  • 2 packets unflavored gelatin (0.25 ounces each)
  • ½ cup vodka
  • ½ cup boiling water
  • ½ cup simple syrup
  • ½ cup whipped cream
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract

Orange Layer:

  • 1 box orange gelatin (3 ounces)
  • ¾ cup boiling water
  • ½ cup cold water
  • ½ cup vodka
  • ⅓ cup whipped cream

Yellow Layer:

  • 1 box yellow gelatin (3 ounces)
  • ¾ cup boiling water
  • ½ cup cold water
  • ½ cup vodka
  • ⅓ cup whipped cream

Garnish (optional):

  • Whipped cream
  • Candy corn

Instructions

  1. Prepare White Layer Gelatin: Add the vodka to a medium mixing bowl. Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin packets over the vodka and lightly mix to wet all the powder. Let it bloom for 3-5 minutes. Pour boiling water over the gelatin and stir until fully dissolved. Add simple syrup and stir gently. Fold in the whipped cream and almond extract, whisking carefully to avoid excessive foam.
  2. Fill White Layer: Using a pourable measuring cup or injector, fill each shot cup about one-third full with the white layer mixture. Place the cups on a level surface in the refrigerator and chill for approximately 1 hour until set.
  3. Prepare Orange Layer Gelatin: Once the white layer is nearly set, combine the orange gelatin powder with boiling water in a medium bowl. Stir until dissolved, then add vodka and cold water, stirring again. Fold in the whipped cream with a light whisk. Let the mixture cool slightly for about 15 minutes as the white layer finishes setting.
  4. Fill Orange Layer: Carefully fill each shot cup another one-third full with the orange gelatin mixture. Chill in the fridge for 1 hour or until set.
  5. Prepare Yellow Layer Gelatin: Repeat the process by mixing the yellow gelatin with boiling water, stirring until dissolved, then adding vodka, cold water, and whipped cream. Lightly whisk to combine.
  6. Fill Yellow Layer: Pour the yellow gelatin mixture to fill the remaining one-third of each shot cup. Refrigerate until fully set, about 1 hour.
  7. Garnish and Serve: When the yellow layer is fully chilled, add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each shot and garnish with candy corn if desired. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Use a Wilton 1M frosting tip with a disposable frosting bag to add whipped cream dollops for an elegant touch.
  • Do not garnish shots with whipped cream and candy corn if storing for later; whipped cream hardens and candy gets sticky. Garnish just before serving.
  • If using glass shot glasses, provide mini spoons for serving to ease removal.
  • Store jello shots uncovered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or covered for up to 5 days—do not freeze.
  • You can use smaller shot cups to make more shots; just divide each layer equally.
  • Skipping the almond extract in the white layer is fine; it simply adds a candy corn flavor. Alternative flavorings can be used if preferred.
  • The whipped cream causes faint white lines between layers due to settling; omitting it will reduce layer definition.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 shot (2 ounces)
  • Calories: 110 kcal
  • Sugar: 10 g
  • Sodium: 15 mg
  • Fat: 2 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0.5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 0.5 g
  • Cholesterol: 5 mg

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