Classic Cocktails & Drinks With A Funky Twist

Santa Hat Jello Shots

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Posted: 12/10/22

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy
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This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy

‘Tis the season for festive Christmas-themed everything, including these Santa Hat Jello Shots. Made with vanilla vodka, strawberry jello, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream, the result is a boozy and festive jello shot that even Santa himself would approve of.

Christmas Jell-O shots are a guaranteed hit during the holiday season. With a smooth flavor and festive presentation, these easy Jell-O shots are just what Santa and his elves ordered. Serve them with Christmas Punch for the ultimate merry drink lineup.

Ingredients

Santa Hat Jell-O Shots use easy-to-find ingredients, many of which you may already have at home!

  • Strawberry jello mix. The key is using a jello mix that is red, so cherry or raspberry would also work.
  • Vanilla vodka
  • Ice
  • Whipped cream for garnish
  • Strawberries for garnish.

Christmas Punch

‘Tis the season for festive Christmas cocktails, including this punch to serve your dearest family and friends.
overhead view of bowl of Christmas Punch garnished with orange slices and cranberries

How To Make Santa Hat Jello Shots

Make these Santa Hat Jell-O shots the night before your holiday gathering and pull them out of the fridge when your guests arrive. Below is a brief overview of how to make them. For the full recipe and measurements, see the recipe card at the bottom of the page.

  • Make the jello. Combine boiling water with the strawberry jello mix until dissolved.
  • Add the liquor. Pour the alcohol and ice into the jello and mix until the ice cubes are melted.
  • Divide and refrigerate. Pour the mixture into plastic shot glasses and refrigerate until set, about 90 minutes.
  • Garnish. Top with whipped cream, a strawberry, and a dot of additional whipped cream to make them into Santa hats.

FAQ

What alcohol is best for jello shots?

Vodka and rum are the most popular and common liquors to use when making jello shots, but anything that complements the fruity flavor of jello will work.

How many days before an event should you make jello shots?

Jello shots take about 90 minutes to fully set up. You can make Christmas jello shots the day before to save time, but not much earlier than that.

How do you keep jello shots cool at a party?

We recommend storing your jello shots in the fridge until you’re ready to serve them.

How to Serve Santa Hat Jello Shots

Serve your Christmas jello shots chilled so they remain solidified. Top with whipped cream, a strawberry, and a dot of additional whipped cream to make them into Santa hats. Jello shots last up to three days in the fridge. It is recommended to keep them covered to maximize their freshness.

TOP PICK

Plastic Shot Glasses

These 1 ounce plastic shot glasses are perfect for jello shots. They are the ones you see pictured here.
Product Image
Front facing photo of Santa Hat Jello Shots on a golden stand

Other Shot Recipes

If you make our Santa Hat Jello Shots, comment below and let us know your thoughts!

Front close up photo of Santa Hat Jello Shots on a golden stand
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Santa Hat Jello Shots

Serves: 17 shots
(tap # to scale)
Prep: 5 minutes
Cook: 1 hour 35 minutes
Total: 1 hour 40 minutes
‘Tis the season for festive Christmas-themed everything, including these Santa Hat Jello Shots. Made with vanilla vodka, strawberry jello, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream, the result is a boozy and festive jello shot that even Santa himself would approve of.

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup boiling water
  • 3 ounces strawberry jello
  • 1 cup vanilla vodka
  • ice
  • whipped cream optional
  • strawberries (the top cut off)

Instructions

  • Boil 3/4 cup of water.
  • Mix the strawberry jello and boiling water until the jello is dissolved.
  • Measure out the vodka in a glass 2 cup measuring cup. Add ice until it measures 1 1/4 cups.
  • Pour the alcohol into the jello and mix until ice cubes are melted.
  • Pour the mixture into plastic shot glasses.
  • Put into the refrigerator for 90 minutes or until solidified.
  • Top with whipped cream, a strawberry, and a dot of additional whipped cream.
  • Serve and enjoy!
Author: Lisa Longley
Course: Drinks
Front close up photo of Santa Hat Jello Shots on a golden stand

Did You Make This

Santa Hat Jello Shots

I’d love to see what you made! Tag me @shakedrinkrpt and hashtag it #shakedrinkrepeat!

Lisa Longley has been creating great recipes for more than a decade. While it is too hard for her to pick her favorite cocktail, she is known to love our dirty martini.

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  1. Brenda says

    These are so cute and festive! I like the idea the ‘drinks’ are pre-made and easy. Can I use something else besides vodka for the alcohol? I’m not a fan of vodka. Thanks!

    • Nathan Longley says

      Yeah, you could use most liquors. White rum would work well. Just know if the liquor you use isn’t clear it will affect the color of the jello. Enjoy!

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