Festive Cranberry Jello Shots
These festive cranberry jello shots are a delightful addition to any holiday gathering, particularly during Thanksgiving celebrations. Infused with Southern Comfort and citrus vodka, they offer a vibrant, tart flavor with a warming kick, making them perfect for welcoming guests. Serve them before the main feast to get everyone into the holiday spirit. Originally featured in Saveur magazine from November 2004, these jello shots are strong, so enjoy responsibly!
20
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
cranberry Jell-O gelatin
1 package (3 ounces)
boiling water
1 cup (freshly boiled)
Southern Comfort
1/2 cup (measure carefully)
citrus-infused vodka
1/2 cup (measure carefully)
Instructions
1
Gather all ingredients and ensure you have enough one-ounce disposable cups for serving.
2
In a medium-sized heatproof bowl, empty the contents of the cranberry Jell-O package.
3
Pour the boiling water over the gelatin and stir continuously until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
4
Add the Southern Comfort and citrus-infused vodka to the dissolved gelatin mixture. Stir thoroughly to combine.
5
Distribute the mixture evenly among 20 one-ounce disposable cups. Use a measuring cup with a pour spout for precision.
6
Place the cups on a tray and refrigerate them until the gelatin is firm, about 2 to 4 hours.
7
Serve chilled and enjoy the burst of cranberry and citrus flavors!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Festive Cranberry Jello Shots?
They are a festive holiday-themed cocktail in gelatin form, featuring cranberry flavor, Southern Comfort, and citrus vodka.
What spirits are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for a combination of Southern Comfort and citrus-infused vodka.
How many servings does one batch produce?
One batch produces approximately 20 one-ounce jello shots.
How long do the jello shots take to set?
The shots should be refrigerated for 2 to 4 hours or until they are completely firm.
What flavor of gelatin is required?
You will need one 3-ounce package of cranberry Jell-O gelatin.
Can I use regular vodka instead of citrus vodka?
Yes, regular vodka can be used, though the citrus-infused variety adds a specific bright flavor.
What is the serving size for these shots?
They are best served in one-ounce disposable cups.
For which holiday is this recipe especially recommended?
These shots are a great addition to Thanksgiving celebrations and other holiday gatherings.
Are these jello shots strong?
Yes, they are quite strong because of the ratio of alcohol, so they should be consumed responsibly.
How much boiling water is needed?
The recipe requires one cup of boiling water to dissolve the gelatin.
How do I ensure the gelatin is smooth?
Stir the gelatin continuously in the boiling water until it is completely dissolved before adding alcohol.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them a day in advance and keep them refrigerated until your party begins.
Where was this recipe originally published?
This recipe was originally featured in Saveur magazine in November 2004.
How do I pour the liquid into the small cups without a mess?
Using a measuring cup with a pour spout is recommended for precise distribution.
Should these be served warm or cold?
These should always be served chilled directly from the refrigerator.
How much Southern Comfort is in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of Southern Comfort.
What is the amount of citrus vodka used?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of citrus-infused vodka.
Are there any fruit additions in the gelatin?
The base recipe does not include solid fruit, but the cranberry Jell-O provides the tart flavor.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to make 40 shots for a larger party.
Do I need to grease the disposable cups?
No, the shots should release easily from disposable plastic cups without any grease.
What does Southern Comfort add to the flavor?
Southern Comfort provides a warming, spiced, and slightly fruity depth to the shots.
Is it okay to use sugar-free cranberry gelatin?
Yes, sugar-free gelatin can be substituted if you prefer.
Should I use a tray to store them in the fridge?
Yes, placing the cups on a tray makes it much easier to move them in and out of the refrigerator.
How many ingredients are needed in total?
There are four main ingredients: cranberry gelatin, boiling water, Southern Comfort, and citrus vodka.
Is this a dessert or a cocktail?
It is considered both; it serves as a fun party cocktail in a solid, dessert-like form.
Can I use lime Jell-O instead?
You can, but it will change the color and flavor profile away from the festive cranberry theme.
What is the total liquid volume of the mixture?
The mixture consists of approximately 2 cups of liquid: 1 cup water and 1 cup total alcohol.
How long can they sit out at a party?
They can sit out for about an hour, but they will eventually lose their firmness if left at room temperature too long.
Are these suitable for a Christmas party?
Yes, their festive flavor and red color make them perfect for Christmas as well as Thanksgiving.
Is there any prep needed for the water?
The water should be freshly boiled to ensure the gelatin dissolves properly.