Root Beer Float Jello Shots

Root beer floats are one of those nostalgic treats that instantly bring back memories of summer afternoons, old-fashioned diners, and creamy, fizzy goodness.

These Root Beer Float Jello Shots capture all of that classic flavor in a fun, grown-up party dessert.

Made with root beer and vanilla vodka, they’re sweet, creamy, and taste surprisingly close to the real thing.

They’re perfect for BBQs, birthday parties, game nights, or any gathering where you want a playful dessert cocktail.

Best of all, they’re easy to make ahead, leaving you with one less thing to worry about before guests arrive.

What Is a Root Beer Float?

A root beer float is a classic American dessert drink made by pouring cold root beer over a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

As the soda fizzes around the ice cream, it creates a creamy, frothy foam that’s just as delicious as the drink itself.

The combination of rich vanilla and spicy-sweet root beer has been a favorite for generations, and these jello shots recreate those same nostalgic flavors with the addition of vanilla vodka for an adults-only twist.

Root Beer Float Jello Shots

These delicious little shots come together in about 15 minutes plus chilling time.

This recipe yields 12 2 ounce jello shots but you can easily double or triple the recipe for a crowd. 

Ingredients

• Root beer
• Unflavored gelatin
• Boiling water
• Vanilla vodka

Optional Garnishes

• Whipped cream
• Maraschino cherries with stems
• Small pieces of red striped paper straws (about 1½ inches long)

Equipment

Medium mixing bowl
Whisk or spoon
Measuring cups
12 (2-ounce) plastic jello shot cups with lids

How to Make Root Beer Float Jello Shots

1. Bloom the gelatin

Pour 4 ounces of the room-temperature root beer into a medium mixing bowl.
Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin evenly over the surface and gently stir just enough to moisten all of the powder.
Avoid overmixing, which can create lumps.
Let the mixture sit undisturbed for about 3 minutes so the gelatin can fully bloom.

2. Dissolve the gelatin

Carefully pour the boiling water into the bowl.
Stir continuously until the gelatin has completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth, with no visible granules remaining.

3. Add the remaining ingredients

Pour in the vanilla vodka and the remaining 8 ounces of root beer. Stir gently until everything is well combined. Try not to stir too vigorously, as the carbonation in the root beer will naturally create some bubbles.

4. Fill the cups

Divide the mixture evenly among 12 jello shot cups, filling each about three-quarters full.
Place the lids on loosely or cover the cups, then transfer them to the refrigerator.

5. Chill until firm

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the jello shots are completely set and firm to the touch.

6. Garnish and serve

Just before serving, top each jello shot with a swirl of whipped cream, a maraschino cherry, and a small piece of striped paper straw for the perfect root beer float look. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Root Beer Float Jello Shots

• • Wait to add the whipped cream, cherries, and straw garnish until just before serving to keep everything looking fresh.
  • Store the jello shots covered with their lids in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Don’t freeze them, as freezing changes the texture of the gelatin.
  • Resist the temptation to add extra vodka. Too much alcohol can prevent the gelatin from setting properly.
  • Mini paper straws are easy to make by cutting standard paper straws into 1½-inch pieces with scissors.
  • Don’t worry if the mixture looks bubbly or slightly fizzy-that’s completely normal thanks to the carbonation in the root beer. If you’d rather have a smoother appearance, let the root beer sit for a few minutes or stir gently before measuring to release some of the carbonation.
  • If you notice a few small gelatin lumps after mixing, simply strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve before pouring it into the shot cups.

These creamy, nostalgic jello shots are guaranteed to be a hit at any party.
With their classic root beer float flavor, fun presentation, and make-ahead convenience, they’re an easy dessert cocktail your guests will be talking about long after the last shot is gone.