Looking for a fun, adults-only treat that combines the nostalgic jiggly joy of Jello with a grown-up twist? These Boozy Jello Candy Melts are exactly what your next gathering needs! Colorful, wobbly, and infused with just the right amount of your favorite spirits, these treats strike the perfect balance between playful and sophisticated.
I created these gem-like treats for a friend’s birthday celebration, and they were an instant hit. They’re conversation starters that bring a pop of color to any dessert table while delivering a delightful little buzz with each bite.
Why You’ll Love This
- Simple to make with just a handful of ingredients
- Perfect make-ahead treat for parties and gatherings
- Customizable with different flavors, colors, and spirits
- More sophisticated than regular Jello shots but just as fun
- Beautiful presentation with minimal effort
Ingredients
- 3 (3 oz) packs flavored gelatin (strawberry, lime, blue raspberry)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup cold alcohol (vodka, rum, tequila, or champagne)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp unflavored gelatin powder
- 1/4 cup cold water (for blooming gelatin)
- Non-stick spray or vegetable oil (for greasing molds)
- 1/2 tsp citric acid (for tanginess)
- Edible glitter (for decoration)
- Sanding sugar (for decoration)
Instructions
- Lightly grease silicone candy molds with non-stick spray or vegetable oil. Place the molds on a baking sheet or tray for easy transfer to the refrigerator later.
- In a small bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over 1/4 cup cold water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom (absorb the water and swell).
- In a medium bowl, pour the boiling water over the flavored gelatin and sugar. Stir continuously until the gelatin and sugar are completely dissolved, about 2 minutes.
- Add the bloomed unflavored gelatin to the hot flavored gelatin mixture. Stir until the unflavored gelatin is completely dissolved and incorporated.
- Allow the gelatin mixture to cool for about 10 minutes. It should be warm but not hot to the touch.
- Stir in the cold alcohol of your choice (vodka, rum, tequila, or champagne). If using citric acid for tanginess, add it now and stir to combine.
- Carefully pour the mixture into the prepared molds, filling each cavity nearly to the top. Gently tap the molds on the counter to release any air bubbles.
- Transfer the filled molds to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight until the jello is completely firm.
- Once firm, carefully flex the silicone molds to release the jello candies. If desired, lightly dust or roll the candies in edible glitter or sanding sugar for decoration.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep chilled until ready to serve.
Tips & Variations
- For stronger jellies, replace some of the boiling water with additional unflavored gelatin dissolved in water.
- Create layered effects by allowing each color to partially set before adding the next.
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute cold fruit juice or soda for the alcohol.
- Try using complementary flavor combinations like strawberry with champagne or lime with tequila.
- Add a drop of food coloring to intensify colors if desired.
- For a more upscale presentation, dust with edible pearl dust or gold shimmer.
Serving Suggestions
These boozy treats shine as part of a dessert grazing table alongside fresh berries, chocolate truffles, and shortbread cookies. For a truly indulgent experience, serve them alongside a chocolate fondue for dipping.
They also make a fun addition to cocktail hour, served in small paper cups or on decorative toothpicks alongside cheese and charcuterie boards.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If the jellies are too sticky to handle, dust your hands with a little powdered sugar.
- Remember these contain alcohol that doesn’t cook off, so they’re for adults only!
- The firmer the set, the easier they are to handle – don’t rush the chilling process.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! These can be made up to 3 days in advance and kept refrigerated in an airtight container.
How much alcohol does each candy contain?
Each candy contains a small amount of alcohol, but it varies depending on the size of your molds. These are definitely adult treats!
My jellies won’t set properly. What went wrong?
Too much alcohol can prevent proper setting. Make sure to follow the ratio of liquid to gelatin, and consider adding extra unflavored gelatin if you’re using higher-proof spirits.
Can I use any type of alcohol?
Yes, but clear spirits like vodka work best for vibrant colors. Dark spirits like whiskey or rum will affect the final color but can create interesting flavor combinations.
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