Nothing screams summer quite like a tray of colorful pool party jello shots. They’re ridiculously easy to whip up, super simple to serve, and honestly, they’re always a crowd-pleaser when the sun’s out and drinks are icy.
Here’s how to make the kind of party jello shots that look as good as they taste—no fuss, just fun.
What I love most is how these shots bring together bold colors and fruity flavors that just fit a poolside mood. You won’t need anything fancy—just some basics you probably already have.
Once you see how fast they come together, you’ll want to make them for every summer hangout.
Pool Party Jello Shots Recipe
I usually make these when I want something bright, cold, and easy for guests to grab. They work with or without booze, and the flavors just go with everything summer.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls – one for each color or flavor.
- Measuring cups – for both water and alcohol.
- Whisk or spoon – for stirring the gelatin smooth.
- Small saucepan – to heat up the water.
- Disposable jello shot cups – 1 or 2-ounce sizes are perfect.
- Tray or baking sheet – to move the filled cups into the fridge.
- Refrigerator space – enough to keep the cups flat.
- Optional: a little funnel or a pitcher if you want to avoid drips.
I honestly find it way easier if I set everything out before I start. Saves time and keeps things from getting messy.
Ingredients
- 1 box (3 oz) blue raspberry gelatin mix or berry blue jello
- 1 cup boiling water
- ½ cup cold water
- ½ cup vodka, rum, tequila, or coconut rum (flavored vodka is fun too)
- Gummy bears for garnish
- Optional: fruit juice or soda to swap in for alcohol if you want them non-alcoholic
Blue raspberry is my go-to for that classic pool color, but sometimes I’ll switch it up and make margarita or watermelon jello shots for something different.
Instructions
- Boil 1 cup of water in your saucepan.
- Pour the gelatin mix into a bowl, then add the boiling water.
- Stir for about 2 minutes until the powder’s totally dissolved.
- Add ½ cup cold water and ½ cup of whatever alcohol (or juice) you’re using.
- Mix gently until it’s all combined.
- Pour into the jello shot cups, filling each about three-quarters full.
- Set the cups on a tray and slide them into the fridge for 2 to 4 hours until they’re firm.
- Pop a gummy bear on top of each shot right before serving.
I always keep them chilled until it’s time to serve—makes them way easier to handle.
Notes
If you want the shots a bit stronger, you can cut back on the cold water a little, but keep the total liquid close to 2 cups so the gelatin sets.
For non-alcoholic versions, I just use lemonade or some fruity soda instead of booze. Kids love the colors and the flavor.
Disposable cups are just easier for cleanup, honestly. Plus, clear cups show off those blue jello shots in the best way.
If you’re feeling creative, try layering different colors—just let the first layer chill halfway, then pour on the next for a striped look. It’s a fun touch for any poolside table.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Disposable jello shot cups
- Tray or baking sheet
- Refrigerator
- Funnel or pitcher (optional)
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil 1 cup of water in a small saucepan.
- Pour the gelatin mix into a mixing bowl, then add the boiling water.
- Whisk for about 2 minutes until the powder is fully dissolved.
- Stir in 1/2 cup cold water and 1/2 cup vodka (or your chosen alcohol) until combined.
- Pour into jello shot cups, filling each about three-quarters full.
- Place cups on a tray and refrigerate 2 to 4 hours until set.
- Top each shot with a gummy bear just before serving.
Tasting Notes
I try the first jello shot and, wow, it’s just so sweet and cool. That flavor instantly brings to mind fresh fruit punch—plus those summer parties by the pool that everyone secretly misses.
The texture? Smooth, but it still holds its shape, which I honestly appreciate.
Each color seems to have its own personality. The blue layer is light, almost tropical, while the red one leans into berry territory.
I can’t help but notice how bright and cheerful those layers look when they’re stacked together.
There’s a nice mix of sweetness and a mild kick from the alcohol. It’s balanced, not overwhelming.
You could eat a few and not feel like you’re overdoing it.
When these are served cold, they’re crisp and honestly, super refreshing. The chill just makes them perfect for hot days—who doesn’t want something fun but not too heavy?
Even after a few minutes in the sun, the flavor sticks around. The jello keeps its shape and color, so it’s actually pretty easy to serve outside.
Flavor Highlights:
- Sweet fruit notes
- Cool, refreshing texture
- Light alcohol taste
- Bright colors that match a poolside theme
