If you are looking for a festive and fun way to celebrate the season, the Candy Corn Layered Jello Shots Recipe is your new best friend. These vibrant, three-layered jello shots capture the classic candy corn colors while bringing a delicious boozy twist to your party lineup. Each layer is smooth, creamy, and bursting with flavor, making these jello shots as delightful to the eyes as they are to the palate. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween bash or just craving a nostalgic treat with a spirited kick, this recipe will not disappoint.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of the Candy Corn Layered Jello Shots Recipe lies not only in its layers but in its simple, carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and iconic look to make this treat truly special.
- Water: Acts as the base for dissolving gelatin and Jell-O powders, ensuring smooth layers.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds creaminess and helps mellow the sweetness while blending beautifully with the alcohol.
- Knox Gelatin: The key to that perfect jiggly texture that defines any great jello shot.
- Pinnacle Whipped Vodka: Infuses a light, creamy vodka flavor that complements each layer without overpowering.
- Orange Jell-O: Brings the bright, nostalgic orange hue and tangy flavor for the middle layer.
- Lemon Jell-O: Provides the sunny yellow tone and citrusy zing for the top layer.
- Cooking spray: Essential for greasing the pans to easily release your layered masterpieces.
How to Make Candy Corn Layered Jello Shots Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the White Layer
Start by combining 1 cup of water with 1/2 cup of sweetened condensed milk in a saucepan, whisking until smooth and creamy. Sprinkle 2 envelopes of Knox gelatin evenly over the mixture and let it bloom for a minute to ensure no lumps. Warm this blend gently over medium heat while stirring, ensuring the gelatin dissolves fully without boiling—the silky texture here is essential. Remove from heat, then gently fold in 1 cup of Pinnacle Whipped Vodka for that signature creamy kick. This layer will be the base and lends the creamy body to your jello shot.
Step 2: Set the White Layer
Spray two loaf pans lightly with your cooking spray to avoid sticking. Divide the white mixture evenly between the pans, aiming for one cup each. Pop these into the fridge for about 30 minutes until they set just enough to be sticky but firm. This subtle firmness helps the next layer settle neatly without blending, creating those crisp, defined candy corn edges.
Step 3: Mix the Orange Layer
In a clean saucepan, whisk together 1 cup water, the orange Jell-O packet, and 1 tablespoon of sweetened condensed milk until fully combined. Like before, sprinkle 1 envelope of Knox gelatin on top and let it absorb for a minute. Turn the heat on medium and stir constantly until the gelatin melts and the mixture becomes smooth. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup Pinnacle Whipped Vodka. Whisk well to keep the mixture from separating—it’s what gives this layer its delightful, luscious texture.
Step 4: Set the Orange Layer
Carefully pour 1 cup of the orange mix over the set white layer in each loaf pan. Go slowly so the layers don’t mix, and return the pans to the fridge for another 30 minutes. Just like before, wait until it’s firm but still slightly sticky to the touch, which is key for the top layer to stick perfectly.
Step 5: Prepare the Yellow Layer
For the final touch, combine 1 cup water, the lemon Jell-O box, and 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk in a saucepan. After mixing well, sprinkle 1 envelope Knox gelatin and let it bloom for a minute. Heat gently while stirring until everything dissolves smoothly—avoid boiling at all costs. Remove from heat, then whisk in the last cup of Pinnacle Whipped Vodka to marry the flavors beautifully.
Step 6: Set the Yellow Layer
Pour 1 cup of the lemon mixture carefully onto the orange layer. Refrigerate the pans again but this time for at least three hours, ensuring everything sets fully and firms up nicely. Patience here results in stable layers that slice cleanly and show off the stunning candy corn effect.
Step 7: Unmold and Slice
To release your layered jello shots, dunk the bottoms of the loaf pans in a small pool of very hot water for about 30 seconds. Run a butter knife gently along the edges to loosen. Invert the pans onto a cutting board or plate, and out come your perfect jello slabs. Slice them lengthwise like bread, then cut those pieces diagonally into triangles that beautifully imitate candy corn pieces. Chill and serve responsibly!
How to Serve Candy Corn Layered Jello Shots Recipe
Garnishes
Though the Candy Corn Layered Jello Shots Recipe is a visual treat on its own, adding a simple garnish can elevate the experience. Try small swirls of whipped cream on each shot or a tiny sprinkle of edible gold glitter for sparkle. A fresh mint leaf or tiny Halloween-themed picks also add charm and make the presentation pop at your party.
Side Dishes
Jello shots are best enjoyed alongside light finger foods that complement their sweetness without overpowering. Opt for salty snacks like pretzels, popcorn, or mini cheese cubes. These savory bites balance the creamy, sweet flavors perfectly and keep your palate excited for the next shot.
Creative Ways to Present
To really impress your guests with the Candy Corn Layered Jello Shots Recipe, serve these slices on a rustic wooden board or a bright serving platter shaped like a pumpkin. You can also place each triangular piece in colorful mini cupcake liners for easy grab-and-go fun. For outdoor gatherings, consider putting them on a tiered dessert stand to showcase their vibrant layers elegantly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These layered jello shots keep wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days when covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. Storing them correctly helps maintain their firmness and prevents drying out, ensuring each shot stays fresh and flavorful for your next craving.
Freezing
While it’s possible to freeze jello shots, it’s not recommended for the Candy Corn Layered Jello Shots Recipe because freezing can alter the delicate textures and cause separation of layers. For best results, enjoy these jello shots fresh or within a few days refrigerated.
Reheating
Since these are cold, gelled treats intended to be served chilled, reheating is not necessary or advised. Instead, just let them come slightly to room temperature for a few minutes if you prefer a softer texture before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of alcohol instead of Pinnacle Whipped Vodka?
Absolutely! You can substitute Pinnacle Whipped Vodka with other flavored vodkas or even rum. Just keep the volume the same to maintain consistency in setting and flavor. Flavored vodkas with creamy or vanilla notes work best to complement the sweet layers.
How can I make the layers set faster?
Refrigerate each layer uncovered for about 30 minutes until slightly firm but sticky. Make sure your fridge is set to a colder temperature, but avoid freezing as that can ruin the texture. Patience is key to keeping those distinct layers crisp and clean.
What can I do if the gelatin doesn’t dissolve completely?
If you notice any graininess, keep gently heating the mixture on low, stirring constantly, but do not let it boil. Gelatin fully dissolves when heated evenly. Blooming the gelatin for a minute before heating also prevents clumps.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of this recipe?
Yes! Simply replace the vodka with extra water or fruit juice for taste. Use the same quantities and follow the layering steps for a fun, kid-friendly Candy Corn Layered Jello treat without the alcohol.
How do I cut the jello shots without them falling apart?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water before each cut to smoothly slice through the layers. Cutting freshly set but fully chilled jello shots helps maintain their shape. Cutting them like bread first, then diagonally, creates the perfect candy corn triangles.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say you are going to love making and sharing this Candy Corn Layered Jello Shots Recipe at your next gathering. It’s a festive, visually stunning treat that combines playful layers of flavor with a creamy vodka twist. Once you master this recipe, you’ll find it hard not to showcase it every Halloween or autumn party. Dive in, get creative, and enjoy every delicious, colorful bite!
Print
Candy Corn Layered Jello Shots Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Easy Candy Corn Jello Shots recipe combines layers of creamy gelatin infused with Pinnacle Whipped Vodka to create a festive, colorful treat perfect for Halloween parties. The layered effect mimics candy corn with distinct white, orange, and yellow sections, each made with a subtle blend of sweetened condensed milk, gelatin, and flavored Jell-O, resulting in a smooth, boozy dessert that is both visually appealing and delicious.
Ingredients
White Layer
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 2 envelopes Knox Gelatin
- 1 cup Pinnacle Whipped Vodka
Orange Layer
- 1 cup water
- 1 small box orange Jell-O (3 oz)
- 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
- 1 envelope Knox Gelatin
- 1 cup Pinnacle Whipped Vodka
Yellow Layer
- 1 cup water
- 1 small box lemon Jell-O (3 oz)
- 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
- 1 envelope Knox Gelatin
- 1 cup Pinnacle Whipped Vodka
Additional
- Cooking spray (for greasing pans)
- 2 loaf pans
Instructions
- Make white layer: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup water and 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk. Whisk until smooth. Sprinkle 2 envelopes Knox Gelatin over the mixture and let it bloom for 1 minute. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until gelatin dissolves and mixture is smooth, about 2 minutes—do not let it boil. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup Pinnacle Whipped Vodka.
- Set white layer: Lightly grease two loaf pans with cooking spray. Divide the white layer mixture evenly, pouring 1 cup into each loaf pan. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes until the layer is slightly firm but still sticky to the touch.
- Make orange layer: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup water, the small box of orange Jell-O, and 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk. Whisk to combine. Sprinkle 1 envelope Knox Gelatin over the mixture and let sit for 1 minute to activate. Heat over medium, stirring constantly until gelatin dissolves and mixture is smooth, about 2 minutes without boiling. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup Pinnacle Whipped Vodka. Whisk well to prevent separation.
- Set orange layer: Carefully pour 1 cup of orange layer mixture over the white layer in each loaf pan. Refrigerate about 30 minutes until this layer is slightly firm but still sticky.
- Make yellow layer: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup water, the small box lemon Jell-O, and 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk. Whisk to combine. Sprinkle 1 envelope Knox Gelatin over the mixture and let sit for 1 minute. Heat over medium heat, stirring until gelatin dissolves and mixture is smooth, about 2 minutes without boiling. Remove from heat and whisk in 1 cup Pinnacle Whipped Vodka.
- Set yellow layer: Carefully pour 1 cup of yellow layer mixture on top of the orange layer in each loaf pan. Refrigerate until fully set and firm, at least 3 hours.
- Unmold jello shots: To release gelatin from loaf pans, briefly dip the bottom of pans in very hot water for 30 seconds. Run a butter knife gently around edges to loosen. Flip pans over onto hands or a cutting board to release jelly slabs.
- Slice and serve: Cut the layered gelatin slab into loaf-shaped slices like bread, then cut slices diagonally into triangles to resemble candy corn pieces. Serve chilled and enjoy responsibly.
Notes
- Do not let the gelatin mixture boil as it can affect texture and setting.
- Make sure each layer is slightly firm but still sticky before adding the next to help layers adhere.
- Use cooking spray on loaf pans to aid in easy unmolding of gelatin.
- Cutting the jello shots into triangles enhances the candy corn visual effect.
- Consume responsibly due to the alcohol content.
