Christmas Candy Cane Jello Shots
Christmas Candy Cane Jello Shots
There’s nothing more fun or festive than these Christmas Candy Cane Jello Shots! They’re the ultimate holiday party treat — colorful, creamy, and full of holiday cheer.
With their red and white layers, fluffy Cool Whip topping, and sparkling sprinkles, these jello shots look just like mini candy canes in a cup.
If you’re hosting a Christmas party or want to bring something extra special to a holiday gathering, these little layered shots are guaranteed to be a hit. They’re easy to make, beautiful to serve, and absolutely delicious — sweet, creamy, and perfectly jiggly!
Why You’ll Love These Christmas Jello Shots
- They’re stunning! Those red and white layers look gorgeous on a dessert or drink table.
- So easy to make ahead. You can prepare them the day before your party, and they’ll be ready to serve when guests arrive.
- Customizable. Make them kid-friendly by skipping the alcohol or keep them grown-up for holiday parties.
- Festive flavor. The combination of peppermint, vanilla, and sweet red jello tastes just like a candy cane!
If you love this holiday recipe, be sure to check out my other Christmas favorites like Grinch Punch, Ritz Cracker Reindeer Treats, and Reindeer Rice Krispy Treats.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Red Layer:
- 1 box (3 oz) red Jell-O (cherry or strawberry)
- 1 cup boiling water
- ½ cup cold water
- ½ cup peppermint schnapps or vodka (optional)
For the White Layer:
- 1 packet unflavored gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup vanilla vodka or cold water (for non-alcoholic version)
Topping:
- Cool Whip
- Red and white sprinkles
- Mini candy canes for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Cups
Use larger plastic shot cups (2 oz or 3 oz size) so you can create beautiful, visible stripes. Set them on a tray or baking sheet so they’re easy to move in and out of the fridge.
Step 2: Make the Red Jello Layer
In a medium bowl, dissolve the red Jell-O in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until fully dissolved. Then add ½ cup cold water and ½ cup peppermint schnapps (or vodka).
Pour a thin layer of red jello into each shot cup — about ⅓ of the way full. Refrigerate for 30–45 minutes, or until the layer is firm.
Step 3: Make the White Jello Layer
In another bowl, whisk the unflavored gelatin into 1 cup boiling water until dissolved. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla vodka (or cold water for a mocktail version).
Once the red layer has set, carefully pour a layer of white jello on top. Chill again for 30–45 minutes, until firm.
Step 4: Add the Final Red Layer
Repeat the process for one last red layer on top. Pour gently so the layers stay distinct and even. Refrigerate again for 30–45 minutes, or until fully set.
Step 5: Add Whipped Topping and Sprinkles
Before serving, top each jello shot with a spoonful of Cool Whip, a sprinkle of red and white sprinkles, and a mini candy cane for a festive touch.
They’ll look just like little candy canes in a cup — perfectly striped, creamy, and irresistibly cute.
Tips for Perfect Layers
- Be patient: Let each layer firm up completely before adding the next, or they’ll blend together.
- Cool the mixture slightly: Let each jello layer cool for 5–10 minutes before pouring it on top of the previous one to prevent melting.
- Use a squeeze bottle: It helps you pour clean, even layers without drips down the sides.
- Chill overnight: For the cleanest layers and best texture, refrigerate at least 4 hours before serving.
How to Make Them Non-Alcoholic
These Christmas Jello Shots are just as delicious without alcohol! Simply replace the vodka or peppermint schnapps with cold water, Sprite, or sparkling white grape juice for a family-friendly version.
They’re perfect for classroom parties, family Christmas dinners, or kids’ cookie decorating events.
Make It a Party
Pair your Candy Cane Jello Shots with other festive recipes for a full Christmas party spread:
- Christmas Kiss Pretzel Bites — salty-sweet perfection
- Rolo Christmas Pretzels — easy, bite-sized treats for dessert trays
Together, they make a perfect Christmas dessert table your guests will love!
How to Store Your Jello Shots
Keep the jello shots covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Wait to add the Cool Whip and sprinkles until just before serving for the prettiest presentation.
Jennie’s Thoughts
These Christmas Candy Cane Jello Shots are the perfect mix of fun, festive, and easy — the kind of recipe that instantly becomes a tradition. Each one is a little party in a cup, full of flavor, color, and Christmas cheer.
Whether you’re making them for a holiday party, a cookie exchange, or Christmas Eve with family, they’ll be the treat everyone talks about (and requests again next year).
If you love simple, crowd-pleasing recipes like this, you’ll also enjoy:
So go ahead and whip up a batch — these Candy Cane Jello Shots are merry, bright, and bound to bring a little sparkle to your holiday celebrations!
