Caramel Apple Jello Shots
Caramel Apple Jello Shots are a festive and fun autumn treat combining the warm flavors of caramel and crisp apple with a boozy twist. Perfect for fall parties, these visually stunning and easy-to-make shots offer a sweet, smooth flavor with a playful texture, sure to impress guests and add charm to any celebration.
- Author: Lucas
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 20-24 jello shots 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons gelatin powder
- 1 cup apple juice or cider (high-quality preferred)
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce
- 1/2 cup vanilla vodka
- 1/2 cup cold water
Optional Garnishes and Add-ins
- Thin apple slices for garnish
- Ground cinnamon for garnish or spiced variation
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional for spiced variation)
- Sea salt pinch for salted caramel topping
- Prepare the Gelatin Mixture: Pour 1/2 cup cold water into a bowl and evenly sprinkle 2 teaspoons of gelatin powder over it. Let it bloom for about 5 minutes to ensure a smooth and lump-free texture later.
- Heat the Liquids: Warm 1 cup apple juice and 1/4 cup caramel sauce gently in a saucepan, stirring until the caramel melts and fully blends into the juice. Avoid boiling to preserve the fresh flavors.
- Combine Gelatin and Liquids: Gradually whisk the bloomed gelatin into the warmed apple-caramel mixture until completely dissolved. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Add Alcohol and Mix: Once the mixture is cooled but not starting to set, gently stir in 1/2 cup vanilla vodka to evenly distribute the alcohol throughout.
- Pour and Chill: Pour the mixture into desired molds or shot glasses. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set and jiggly.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish each shot with thin apple slices, a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, or a tiny drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra festive fall touch.
Notes
- Always start with cold water for blooming gelatin to achieve perfect texture.
- Heat liquids gently without boiling to preserve flavor and avoid bitterness.
- Cool the mixture slightly before adding alcohol to prevent evaporation of the vodka.
- Use high-quality caramel sauce and apple juice for a richer, more authentic taste.
- If shots are not firm enough, increase gelatin by 0.5 teaspoons in the next batch.
- For vegan versions, substitute gelatin with agar agar and use vegan caramel sauce.
- Store leftover jello shots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing is not recommended as it affects the gelatin texture negatively.
- These shots are best served chilled and fresh from the refrigerator.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 shot (about 1.5 oz)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: caramel apple jello shots, fall party drinks, boozy jello shots, autumn cocktails, caramel apple dessert, festive shot recipes