These fun Apple Pie Jello Shots are a sweet twist on a classic dessert! Made with apple juice, cinnamon, and a splash of vodka, they taste like autumn in a cup.
They’re perfect for parties, and everyone gets excited when they see them! I love serving these alongside some whipped cream for extra fun. 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apple Juice: Opt for unfiltered apple juice if possible; it has a richer flavor and more texture. If you can’t find it, regular apple juice works too. For a twist, try cider for a spicier taste.
Vodka: You can adjust the amount based on how strong you like your shots. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, just replace the vodka with more apple juice or a flavored sparkling water.
Gelatin: I usually use unflavored gelatin for its neutral taste, but an apple-flavored gelatin can add an additional layer of apple sweetness. For a vegetarian option, look for agar-agar as a substitute.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices are essential for the apple pie flavor. If you’re out of nutmeg, you could skip it or use a bit of allspice instead for a similar taste.
How Do You Get the Perfect Jello Texture?
Getting the right texture in your jello shots is all about the gelatin. First, let the gelatin ‘bloom’ by soaking it in juice before heating. This step ensures it dissolves evenly. When heating, keep it low and avoid boiling to maintain that smooth texture.
- Mix apple juice and gelatin, and let it sit for 5 mins.
- Heat slowly while stirring until completely dissolved.
- Chill in the fridge for a minimum of 4 hours for it to set properly.
For the best consistency, ensure your shots are well-chilled before serving. Using small cups helps them set more evenly and makes for easy gripping while enjoying at parties!
How to Make Apple Pie Jello Shots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup apple juice (preferably unfiltered for more flavor)
- 1 cup vodka (adjust based on desired strength)
- 2 packets (about 1/2 oz) unflavored gelatin or apple-flavored gelatin
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Additional ground cinnamon or cinnamon sugar, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time plus at least 4 hours to chill and set in the refrigerator. It’s a quick process to make the jello shots, but patience is the key while they set!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Bloom the Gelatin:
In a medium saucepan, pour 1 cup of apple juice and sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the surface. Let it sit for about 5 minutes. This step helps the gelatin dissolve smoothly.
2. Heat the Mixture:
Gently heat the saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t boil! Continue until the gelatin is fully dissolved, and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add Flavor:
Once the gelatin is dissolved, remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the vodka, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg until everything is well-mixed. This is where the magic happens; you’re bringing the apple pie flavor into the shots!
4. Pour into Cups:
Carefully pour the mixture evenly into small plastic shot cups or molds. Make sure to leave a little space at the top, as they might expand slightly when set.
5. Refrigerate:
Place the filled cups in the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or until fully set. You want them to be firm, so they hold their shape when you take them out!
6. Add the Topping:
When you’re ready to serve, top each jello shot with a dollop of whipped cream. For that final touch, sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon or cinnamon sugar on top for a bit of sparkle and extra flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
These vibrant and delicious jello shots are best served chilled. Enjoy the fun, sweet, and spicy flavors of apple pie in this unique treat!
These jello shots are a delightful way to bring the warmth of apple pie into your next party. They’re sure to be a hit and bring smiles to everyone’s faces!
Can I Use Non-Alcoholic Ingredients?
Absolutely! If you’d like a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the vodka with an additional cup of apple juice or a flavored sparkling water for a fun twist. This way, everyone can enjoy them!
How Long Do These Jello Shots Last?
Stored in the refrigerator, these jello shots will last up to 5 days. Just make sure they are in an airtight container to maintain their flavor and texture!
What If My Jello Shots Are Too Soft?
If your jello shots are too soft, it could be because the gelatin didn’t dissolve properly, or the proportions were off. To fix this in the future, ensure you bloom the gelatin correctly before heating and maintain the correct ratio of liquid to gelatin (typically 1 cup of liquid to 1 packet of gelatin).
Can I Add Other Flavors or Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding flavored liqueurs like butterscotch or caramel for a different twist. Just be mindful of the overall consistency and adjust the gelatin amount if necessary.