A fizzy, fun spin on classic Jello Shots, this Cherry Coke Jello Shots Recipe brings together the sweet zing of cherry soda and a splash of whiskey for a boozy party drink that’s perfect for summer get-togethers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• No oven, no fuss—just mix, chill, and serve
• Ready in under an hour (including chill time)
• Uses pantry-friendly ingredients you likely already have
• Customizable booze level—mild for everyone or extra boozy for adventurous friends
• Cherry Coke fizz adds natural sweetness—less added sugar required
• Perfect for backyard barbecues, pool parties, or cozy nights in
• Gelatin shots are always a hit—nostalgic yet modern twist
• Whip up a batch in under 10 minutes of active time
Ingredients
1. 1 (3-ounce) package cherry-flavored gelatin (Jell-O brand recommended)
2. 1 cup boiling water
3. ½ cup cold Cherry Coke (Coca-Cola Cherry for best fizz)
4. ½ cup whiskey or vodka (Crown Royal or Tito’s, your pick)
5. 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, if you like it sweeter)
6. ¼ cup cold water (for balance; skip if you want maximum fizz)
7. Maraschino cherries or whipped cream (for garnish, optional)
Directions
1. Bloom the gelatin
In a medium heat-proof bowl, sprinkle the cherry gelatin over 1 cup of boiling water. Stir briskly until all the powder dissolves—no granules hiding at the bottom.
2. Sweeten (if desired)
Toss in the sugar while the mixture is hot, stirring until it’s completely dissolved. A sweeter shot can be a crowd-pleaser, but you’ll find Cherry Coke’s fizz already brings plenty of candy-like notes.
3. Add cold liquids
Pour in the cold Cherry Coke and the ¼ cup cold water, then stir gently to keep that fizz around. Watch the tiny bubbles dance—that’s where half the fun lives.
4. Spike with booze
Let the mixture cool slightly (about 3–4 minutes), then whisk in the whiskey or vodka. If you’re serving underaged guests or want a mocktail version, simply swap the spirit for more Cherry Coke.
5. Portion into cups
Grab a 12-cup silicone mold or small plastic shot cups. Carefully ladle the mixture into each cup, filling about ¾ full to leave space for garnish.
6. Chill until set
Transfer your tray to the fridge. Chill for at least 45 minutes or until firm. In humid kitchens, you may need up to an hour—just give a gentle poke to test.
7. Garnish and serve
Top each set shot with a maraschino cherry or a dab of whipped cream for that retro diner vibe. Serve cold, straight from the fridge, and watch them disappear.
Servings & Timing
Makes 12–15 shots
Prep Time: 10 minutes active (bloom, mix, pour)
Chill Time: 45–60 minutes (set until firm)
Total Time: About 1 hour
Variations
• Swap the whiskey for tequila and garnish with a lime wedge for a Cherry Coke Margarita shot.
• Use diet Cherry Coke and skip sugar for a lower-calorie, tangy twist.
• Stir a teaspoon of lime zest into the hot gelatin for a citrus pop.
• Replace cherry gelatin with grape or lemon for a colorful sampler set.
• Layer two flavors by letting one set, then topping with a contrasting gelatin mix.
• Add edible glitter or jimmies before chilling for sparkly party fun.
Storage & Reheating
Store these boozy delights in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days—though they rarely last that long! No need to freeze or reheat; just grab a cool shot straight from the fridge when guests arrive. If fridge space is tight, stack cups in an airtight container to save shelf real estate.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these without alcohol?
A: Absolutely—swap the whiskey or vodka for extra Cherry Coke or ginger ale for a crowd-pleasing mocktail shot.
Q: Why did my shots turn rubbery?
A: Over-chilling or too much gelatin can give a springy texture—stick to one packet of gelatin and check firmness at 45 minutes.
Q: Can I use other sodas?
A: Sure thing! Diet Cherry, grape soda, or even cream soda work beautifully—just pick a gelatin flavor to match.
Q: What if I don’t have whiskey?
A: Vodka, rum, or tequila are easy substitutions—each brings its own character to the party drink.
Q: How do I transport these to a potluck?
A: Set them in a rigid container or muffin tin with a tight lid; keep them chilled in a cooler until serving.
Q: Are plastic or silicone cups better?
A: Silicone molds pop out cleaner but require a flat tray; plastic shot cups are grab-and-go and biodegradable options exist.
Q: Can I layer flavors?
A: Yes—pour one flavor, chill until set, then add a second flavor on top. Just give it extra chill time.
Q: Any tips for a bigger batch?
A: Scale ingredients up in a 2:1 ratio (twice the gelatin mix) and use a larger pan, then cut into cubes or pour into more cups.
Conclusion
This Cherry Coke Jello Shots Recipe brings fizzy nostalgia and adult fun together in one easy, no-bake party drink. Whether you’re entertaining friends or spicing up a summer barbecue, these gelatin shots deliver bright color, sweet cherry flavor, and a friendly kick. Give them a whirl, let me know how they turned out, and explore more spirited recipes on the blog!
Cherry Coke Jello Shots Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 ounce cherry-flavored gelatin (one packet, Jell-O brand)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold Cherry Coke (brand: Coca-Cola Cherry)
- 1/2 cup whiskey or vodka (Crown Royal or Tito’s recommended)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional)
- 1/4 cup cold water (optional, for extra fizz)
- Maraschino cherries or whipped cream (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sprinkle cherry-flavored gelatin into boiling water and stir until completely dissolved.
- Stir in granulated sugar while mixture is hot, if you prefer a sweeter shot.
- Pour cold Cherry Coke and water into the gelatin base, stirring gently to preserve fizz.
- Allow the mixture to cool for 3–4 minutes, then whisk in whiskey or vodka until smooth.
- Ladle mixture into silicone molds or plastic shot cups, filling about ¾ full.
- Refrigerate for 45–60 minutes, or until shots are set and no longer jiggle.
- Top each shot with a maraschino cherry or a swirl of whipped cream, then serve cold.
