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These festive Candy Corn Jello Shots have become my go-to party treat each October thanks to those eye-catching layers and fun candy-inspired flavor. If you want to impress your guests with something sweet and boozy that captures the spirit of Halloween, these easy Jello shots deliver.
Every time I serve these, they disappear before dinner is even ready. The mix of sweetened condensed milk and whipped vodka creates a silky nostalgic creaminess you do not find in average Jello shots.
Ingredients
- Lemon Jello: brings a bright yellow base for the candy corn layers look for a vibrant, fresh-smelling box
- Orange Jello: offers that classic orange stripe and a sweet citrusy pop choose a box with a strong fragrance
- Sweetened condensed milk: creates the creamy white middle and softens the alcohol use the most velvety brand you can find
- Knox Gelatin: gives structure for clean sharp layers use unflavored packets for best results
- Pinnacle Whipped Vodka: adds a vanilla cake flavor that keeps the treats sweet and dessert-like this vodka blends smoothly with Jello
- Water: is essential for dissolving gelatin make sure yours is filtered for a pure taste
- Cooking spray: prevents sticking and messy layers opt for a neutral one
- Loaf pans: standard size works best for slicing triangular servings choose sturdy pans for easy unmolding
Ingredient Highlight
I love splurging on a rich sweetened condensed milk. It makes an unbeatable creamy texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the White Layer:
- Pour water and sweetened condensed milk into a medium saucepan. Whisk until totally combined. Sprinkle gelatin on top and let the mixture sit for a minute so the gelatin blooms. Stir and gently heat on medium just until the gelatin dissolves test with your fingers to make sure it is not grainy. Do not allow the mixture to boil. Whisk in the vodka until thoroughly mixed.
- Chill the White Layer:
- Divide the white mixture into two lightly greased loaf pans about one cup in each. Chill in the refrigerator for thirty minutes until just barely firm but still sticky to the touch.
- Make the Orange Layer:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk water and the orange Jello packet together then mix in a spoonful of sweetened condensed milk for smoothness. Sprinkle gelatin evenly then wait a minute to bloom. Stir and warm over medium heat just until all the granules melt. Add the vodka and whisk well so everything stays combined.
- Layer the Orange Mixture:
- Carefully pour the orange mixture over the white layer in each loaf pan one cup per pan. Refrigerate another thirty minutes so the orange layer is set but still slightly tacky.
- Make the Yellow Layer:
- Pour water and lemon Jello into your saucepan. Add a spoonful of sweetened condensed milk for richness and whisk until combined. Sprinkle the gelatin over the mixture wait one minute for it to activate then heat gently while stirring until completely smooth and dissolved. Whisk in the vodka ensuring a uniform texture.
- Finish Layering and Chill:
- Gently pour the yellow lemon mixture over each orange layer. Place both pans in the fridge and chill for at least three hours or until totally firm.
- Slice and Serve:
- Sit each loaf pan in a shallow pan of very hot water for thirty seconds to loosen. Carefully run a butter knife around the edge and invert the pan to release the Jello loaf onto your hand or cutting board. Cut slices just like bread then cut those slices into candy corn triangles for serving.
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I love how the whipped vodka makes each layer melt in your mouth. One year I made these for my sister’s Halloween party and they were the first thing the adults snatched off the buffet.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to four days. Try not to stack them or the layers may squish. If making ahead for a big party keep the slices chilled on a tray until ready to serve.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap out the vodka for clear tequila or coconut rum if you prefer a different base flavor. For nonalcoholic treats just use cold water in place of spirits. Any brand of lemon or orange gel dessert works as long as the flavor is strong.
Serving Suggestions
Present on a white platter to highlight the vibrant layers or set on small cupcake liners for easy grab and go at parties. Add a few pieces of real candy corn on the side for a playful touch.
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Cultural Context
Candy corn’s bright tri-color stripes have represented American Halloween since the late 1800s. By turning this nostalgic treat into a fun party shot, you get to share that old school holiday spirit with a modern grownup twist.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
- → How do I ensure the gelatin layers don’t mix?
Pour each layer gently over the previous one when it’s slightly firm but still sticky. This helps maintain distinct layers without bleeding.
- → Can I substitute the whipped vodka with another alcohol?
Yes, clear flavored vodkas or light spirits work well to maintain the delicate flavors and consistency.
- → What’s the best way to remove the gelatin from the loaf pan?
Soak the loaf pan briefly in hot water, then run a butter knife around the edge before flipping it carefully onto a cutting surface.
- → How long should I chill the layers between pours?
About 30 minutes per layer or until it's firm but still sticky to the touch, which prevents mixing and helps clean layering.
- → Is it possible to make these in smaller portions?
Absolutely, use smaller molds or containers but keep the layering and chilling times consistent for best results.