Description

Have you ever wondered if a simple Jell-O could turn into a boozy, layered treat that looks like candy corn and packs a fun punch for adults? Imagine slicing into colorful shots that reveal white, orange, and yellow layers, topped with whipped cream and sprinkles for a spooky vibe

Ingredients

This recipe uses simple ingredients to create layered, boozy shots. Here’s what you’ll need, why each one matters, and some substitutions:

Unflavored Powdered Gelatin (1/4-ounce packet): Sets the creamy white layer.
- Substitution: Use agar-agar for vegan.
Nonstick Cooking Spray: Greases the baking dish for easy removal.
- Substitution: Use butter or oil.
Sweetened Condensed Milk (3/4 cup): Creates the creamy white base.
- Substitution: Use coconut condensed milk for dairy-free.
Vodka (1 1/2 cups): Adds the boozy kick to all layers.
- Substitution: Use rum, tequila, or non-alcoholic spirit for mocktails.
Orange-Flavored Gelatin (6-ounce box, like Jell-O): Forms the orange layer.
- Substitution: Use strawberry or peach for different colors.
Boiling Water (2 cups): Dissolves the gelatin mixes.
- Substitution: Use hot water from a kettle.
Lemon-Flavored Gelatin (6-ounce box, like Jell-O): Creates the yellow top layer.
- Substitution: Use lime for green or pineapple for yellow.
Heavy Whipping Cream (1/2 cup): Whips into a fluffy topping.
- Substitution: Use coconut cream for dairy-free.
Sugar (1 teaspoon): Sweetens the whipped cream.
- Substitution: Use honey or omit.
Orange and Black Halloween Sprinkles (3 tablespoons): Adds festive color.
- Substitution: Use any Halloween-themed sprinkles.

Why These Ingredients Matter

The gelatin layers provide a light, fun texture, while the sweetened condensed milk adds creaminess. Vodka brings the adult fun, and the fruit-flavored gelatins evoke candy corn colors. The whipped cream and sprinkles make them party-ready. These ingredients are easy to find and adaptable for non-alcoholic versions or dietary needs, keeping the recipe versatile and healthy-ish with portion control.

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Instructions

Step 1: Bloom the Unflavored Gelatin

Bring 3 cups water to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat, then lower to a simmer.
In a medium heatproof bowl, combine the 1/4-ounce packet unflavored gelatin with 1/2 cup cold water.
Stir frequently until the gelatin becomes a thick paste, about 5 minutes.

Tip: Have the bowl ready to fit over the saucepan without touching the water.

Step 2: Prep the Baking Dish

Lightly grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Tip: This makes unmolding the set Jell-O easy.

Step 3: Melt and Mix the White Layer

Place the bloomed gelatin bowl over the simmering water and stir until melted, about 30 seconds.
Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
If lumps remain, return to the water briefly.
Stir in 1/2 cup vodka, then pour into the prepared dish.
Refrigerate until just set and sticky, about 30 minutes.

Tip: Check for stickiness with a clean finger to know it’s ready for the next layer.

Step 4: Make the Orange Layer

Whisk the 6-ounce box orange gelatin with 1 cup boiling water until dissolved, about 2 minutes.
Whisk in 1/2 cup cold water, 1/2 cup vodka, and 1 tablespoon condensed milk.
Skim bubbles from the surface with a spoon.
Let cool to room temperature until the white layer is set.
Pour over the white layer and refrigerate until just set, about 30 minutes.

Tip: Cooling prevents melting the bottom layer.

Step 5: Make the Lemon Layer

Whisk the 6-ounce box lemon gelatin with the remaining 1 cup boiling water until dissolved.
Whisk in 1/2 cup cold water, remaining 1/2 cup vodka, and 1 tablespoon condensed milk.
Skim bubbles.
Let cool until the orange layer is set.
Pour over and refrigerate until firm, at least 90 minutes or overnight.

Tip: Overnight chilling ensures perfect layers.

Step 6: Unmold and Cut

Grease a plastic cutting board or baking sheet.
Run a knife around the edges and invert onto the board.
Trim edges and cut into 40 equal squares.
Transfer to a platter.

Tip: Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.

Step 7: Whip the Cream and Decorate

Whip 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1 teaspoon sugar until firm peaks form.
Pipe a small star on each shot using a piping bag with a large star tip.
Sprinkle with 3 tablespoons orange and black sprinkles.

Tip: Refrigerate the piping bag until ready to use.