Lemon Drop Jello Shots
If you’re looking for a fun party treat that’s equal parts sweet, tart, and boozy, these Lemon Drop Jello Shots are guaranteed to be a hit.
They have all the bright citrus flavor of a classic Lemon Drop cocktail, transformed into a playful, bite-sized dessert that’s perfect for birthdays, BBQs, game nights, or summer parties.
They’re incredibly easy to make with just a handful of ingredients, and the refreshing lemon flavor keeps everyone coming back for more.
What Is a Lemon Drop Cocktail?
A Lemon Drop cocktail is a classic vodka drink that’s known for its bright, refreshing citrus flavor.
The taste brings to mind classic lemon drop candies.
It contains vodka, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and sometimes orange liqueur, it’s served in a sugar-rimmed martini glass for the perfect balance of sweet and tart.
This cocktail is crisp, refreshing, and easy to sip.
These Lemon Drop Jello Shots capture those same vibrant flavors in a fun, party-friendly version that’s perfect for serving a crowd.
Ingredients
- Lemon-flavored gelatin
- Boiling water
- Vodka
- Fresh lemon juice
- Whipped cream, for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges or thin lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
Equipment
Medium mixing bowl
Whisk or spoon
Measuring cups
11 (2-ounce) plastic shot cups with lids
How to Make Lemon Drop Jello Shots
Step 1: Dissolve the Gelatin
Pour the lemon gelatin powder into a medium mixing bowl.
Add the boiling water and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes, or until the gelatin has completely dissolved and no granules remain.
Step 2: Add the Alcohol
Pour in the vodka and fresh lemon juice. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined.
The fresh lemon juice adds an extra burst of citrus that gives these jello shots their signature Lemon Drop flavor.
Step 3: Fill the Shot Cups
Carefully pour the mixture into your shot cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Leaving a little room at the top makes it easier to add whipped cream later if you’d like to garnish them.
Step 4: Chill
Transfer the filled shot cups to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the gelatin is completely firm and set.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, top each jello shot with a dollop of whipped cream and a small lemon wedge or thin slice of lemon if desired.
Tips for the Best Lemon Drop Jello Shots
- Wait to garnish. Add the whipped cream and lemon garnish just before serving so everything stays fresh.
- Store leftovers properly. Cover each shot with its lid and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Freezing can change the texture of the gelatin.
- Fresh lemon juice makes a difference. It gives these shots a brighter, more natural citrus flavor than bottled juice.
- Use lemon vodka if you’d like. It works perfectly well, although regular vodka produces nearly the same flavor once everything is mixed together.
- Dress them up. Pipe the whipped cream on using a piping bag and star tip for a polished, party-worthy presentation.
- Make them ahead. These are a great make-ahead party dessert since they only need a few minutes of prep and can chill until you’re ready to serve.
Yield: 11Lemon Drop Jello Shots
Prep Time: 10 minutesAdditional Time: 2 hoursTotal Time: 2 hours 10 minutesMake these easy Lemon Drop Jello Shots with vodka, lemon gelatin, and fresh lemon juice. A sweet, tart party treat that's perfect for any celebration!
Ingredients
- 1 (3-ounce) box lemon-flavored gelatin
- ⅔ cup boiling water
- ⅔ cup vodka
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- Whipped cream, for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges or thin lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the jello and boiling water. Mix until the jello has full dissolved.
- Add the vodka and lemon juice. Stir.
- Fill the shot cups about ⅔ of the way full.
- Place in the fridge for 2 hours or until set.
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a lemon wedge, if desired.
