Who doesn’t love a good pina colada? The tropical flavours of coconut and pineapple are a classic combination that never fails to delight. But what if we told you there’s an even more fun and festive way to enjoy this beloved cocktail? Enter the pina colada jello shots – the ultimate party treat that’s sure to be the hit of any gathering.
These boozy jello bites combine the creamy, fruity flavours of a pina colada with the fun and jiggly texture of jello. They’re easy to make, portable, and pack a flavourful punch that will have your guests coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a pool party, or just a casual get-together with friends, pina colada jello shots are the perfect addition to your menu.
Pina Colada Jello Shots Recipe
Not only are these layered pina colada jello shots delicious and easy to make, but they also offer endless opportunities for creative presentation and flavour experimentation.
Yield: 12- 2 oz portion cups
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time in refrigerator: 8 hours
Cool to room temperature: 2 hours
Ingredients
White Layer:
1/2 cup Hot Water
1 packet unflavoured Gelatin
1/2 can Condensed Milk
1/2 cup Malibu Coconut Rum
Yellow Layer:
1/2 cup Hot Water
3 oz. (90ml) Island Pineapple Jell-o
1/2 cup Pineapple Rum
Garnishes
- maraschino cherries
- toasted coconut
- orange wedges
Kitchen Accessories and Tools
- 12 – 2 oz Disposable Jello Shot Cups or Shot Glasses
- 2 medium size bowls
- 2 spoons
How to Make Pina Colada Jello Shots
Making pina colada jello shots is a simple process that just requires a few basic steps. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to do it:
- In a medium sized bowl, add the hot water, gelatin, condensed milk and chilled coconut rum and stir to combine.
- Fill the portion cups halfway with white jello mix.
- Place in the fridge for 4 hours to allow the Jello set.
- In a medium sized bowl, add the hot water, pineapple jello and chilled pineapple rum and stir to combine.
- Allow the yellow layer to cool to room temperature.
- Pour on the yellow layer on top of the white layer once it has cooled.
- Place in the fridge for 4 hours to set.
- Garnish with toasted coconut, maraschino cherries, and orange wedges.
That’s all there is to it! With just a few simple steps, you can transform the classic pina colada into a fun, boozy party treat. The hardest part is waiting for them to set in the fridge.
Pina Colada Jello Shots
Equipment
- 12 – 2 oz Disposable Jello Shot Cups or Shot Glasses
- 2 medium size bowls
- 2 Spoons
Ingredients
White Layer
- 1/2 cup Hot Water
- 1 packet unflavoured Gelatin
- 1/2 can Condensed Milk
- 1/2 cup Malibu Coconut Rum
Yellow Layer
- 1/2 cup Hot Water
- 3 oz Island Pineapple Jell-o 90ml
- 1/2 cup Pineapple Rum
Garnishes
- 12 maraschino cherries
- 12 wedges orange
- 12 tsps toasted coconut
Instructions
- In a medium sized bowl, add the hot water, gelatin, condensed milk and chilled coconut rum and stir to combine.
- Fill the portion cups halfway with white jello mix.
- Place in the fridge for 4 hours to allow the Jello set.
- In a medium sized bowl, add the hot water, pineapple jello and chilled pineapple rum and stir to combine.
- Allow the yellow layer to cool to room temperature.
- Pour on the yellow layer on top of the white layer once it has cooled.
- Place in the fridge for 4 hours to set.
- Garnish with toasted coconut and cherries.
Notes
Tips for Perfect Pina Colada Jello Shots
To ensure your layered pina colada jello shots turn out perfectly every time, here are a few additional tips and tricks to keep in mind:Adjust the Alcohol Content
The amount of rum you add can be adjusted to your personal taste preferences. Start with 1/2 cup and add more in 1-2 tablespoon increments until you reach the desired booziness. Keep in mind that the more rum you add, the softer the jello shots will be.Chill Thoroughly
Patience is key when it comes to jello shots. Make sure to let them chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or until they’re completely set. Rushing the process can result in a soft, gooey texture.Make Ahead of Time
One of the best things about jello shots is that you can make them in advance. Prepare the recipe up to 5 days ahead of time and keep them chilled in the refrigerator until ready to serve.Freeze for Longer Storage
If you want to make your pina colada jello shots even further in advance, you can also freeze them. Once set, simply transfer the jello shots to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.Nutrition
Tips for Perfect Pina Colada Jello Shots
To ensure your layered pina colada jello shots turn out perfectly every time, here are a few additional tips and tricks to keep in mind:
Adjust the Alcohol Content
The amount of rum you add can be adjusted to your personal taste preferences. Start with 1/2 cup and add more in 1-2 tablespoon increments until you reach the desired booziness. Keep in mind that the more rum you add, the softer the jello shots will be.
Chill Thoroughly
Patience is key when it comes to jello shots. Make sure to let them chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or until they’re completely set. Rushing the process can result in a soft, gooey texture.
Make Ahead of Time
One of the best things about jello shots is that you can make them in advance. Prepare the recipe up to 5 days ahead of time and keep them chilled in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Freeze for Longer Storage
If you want to make your pina colada jello shots even further in advance, you can also freeze them. Once set, simply transfer the jello shots to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect pina colada jello shots with pineapple jello that will impress all your guests.
Serving Suggestions
Pina colada jello shots are incredibly versatile and can be served in all sorts of fun and creative ways. Here are some serving ideas and flavour variations to try:
- Arrange them on a platter or tray, garnished with pineapple wedges or maraschino cherries.
- For a fun presentation, serve the jello shots in hollowed-out pineapple halves or coconut shells.
- Skewer the jello shots onto toothpicks or cocktail sticks for easy, grab-and-go snacking.
- Layer the pina colada jello in a clear glass or mason jar for a colorful, layered effect.
- Top the jello shots with a dollop of whipped cream or coconut whipped cream.
No matter how you serve them, pina colada jello shots are sure to be a hit at any party or gathering. Their tropical flavours, boozy kick, and jiggly texture make them the perfect summer treat.
Flavour Twists on Pina Colada Jello Shots
While the classic pina colada jello shot is a summer staple, there’s no reason to limit yourself to just one flavour profile. The beauty of this boozy treat is that it lends itself well to all sorts of creative variations and flavour twists. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
Mango Pina Colada Jello Shots: Swap out half of the pineapple juice for fresh mango puree or juice for a tropical twist on the classic.
Coconut Lime Jello Shots: Substitute lime juice for the pineapple juice with the coconut rum for a refreshing, tart-and-sweet combination.
Spiced Pina Colada Jello Shots: Add a dash of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to the jello mixture for a warm, spiced take on the pina colada.
Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jello Shots: Layer pineapple rings or chunks in the bottom of your jello shot cups, then pour the pina colada jello mixture over the top.
Pina Colada Jello Salad: For a fun and unexpected take, turn your pina colada jello shots into a shareable jello salad. Simply pour the mixture into a larger serving dish and chill until set.
Pina Colada Jello Popsicles: Freeze your pina colada jello mixture in popsicle molds for a refreshing, boozy frozen treat.
Pina Colada Jello Parfaits: Layer the pina colada jello with whipped cream, crushed graham crackers, and toasted coconut in clear glasses for a fun, layered presentation.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to putting your own unique spin on the classic pina colada jello shot. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavour combinations, textures, and serving styles. After all, the true essence of the pina colada is all about embracing the spirit of summer fun and relaxation.
With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time in the fridge, you can whip up a batch of these creamy, fruity, and fun jello shots that will have your guests coming back for more. I hope you enjoyed these Pina Colada Jello Shots as much I did! For a fall Jello shots recipe, you can make these Caramel Apple Pie Jello Shots!
