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These Grinch Jello Shots are honestly the best holiday party trick I've got! They mix fun green jello with vanilla vodka and peppermint schnapps, then get a little dollop of whipped cream and a tiny red heart on top. They're just like the Grinch himself – a bit naughty but totally delightful!
Absolute Party Wonder
The magic of these shots comes from how the mint and vanilla flavors work together, and they look so darn cute too! I'm all about making stuff ahead of time to make parties easier. Whenever guests spot these on my dessert table, they can't stop talking about them.
What You'll Need
- Cold Water (1 cup): Helps the gelatin set up correctly.
- Unflavored Powdered Gelatin (2 packets): Creates the jello texture; grab Knox at your grocery store.
- Green Gel Food Coloring: Gives your shots that perfect Grinchy green color.
- Peppermint Schnapps (½ cup): Brings in that cool minty taste.
- Vanilla Vodka (½ cup): Try brands like Absolut, Smirnoff or Pinnacle for a touch of sweetness.
- Whipped Cream: Makes a fluffy white topping.
- Red Sprinkle Hearts: The finishing touch that makes them truly Grinch-worthy.
- Shot Glasses (16 1-ounce or 8 2-ounce): For single servings that look great.
Getting Down To Business
- Set Up Your Containers
- Arrange your shot glasses or plastic cups on a cookie sheet with edges so they're easy to move to the fridge.
- Start The Gelatin
- Mix 1 cup cold water with the unflavored gelatin in a medium saucepan. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Warm It Up
- Put the pan over medium-low heat and stir until the gelatin completely dissolves. Don't let it boil.
- Color And Flavor Time
- Take the pan off the heat and mix in green gel food coloring until the color's even. Then add the vanilla vodka and peppermint schnapps.
- Fill And Chill
- Pour your mixture into a measuring cup with a spout. Fill each shot glass almost to the top. Cover them and put in the fridge for at least 4 hours.
- Finish Them Off
- Right before you serve, add whipped cream on top and place a red heart on each one.
Switch Things Around
I'm always playing with this recipe! You can try using lime Jello instead, or swap in regular vodka with a bit of sugar. Want them alcohol-free? Just use peppermint extract instead. Sometimes I'll cut a little strawberry slice to use instead of the heart and it works great!
Nailing It Every Time
I've found Knox gelatin works best and don't ever let your mixture come to a boil! Getting a measuring cup with a spout will make your life so much easier. You can make these up to 4 days before your party, but always wait to add the cream and hearts until you're ready to serve.
Storage Tips
These little guys will stay good in your fridge for up to 4 days if you keep them covered tightly. Just don't add the toppings until right when you're about to serve them. This keeps everything looking fresh and tasting amazing.
Presentation Ideas
I like to take these straight from the fridge and put them on a pretty holiday tray. Then I quickly add the whipped cream swirl and pop on the red hearts just before guests arrive. They always catch everyone's eye at holiday gatherings!
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these without alcohol?
- Absolutely! Swap out the alcohol for water or a clear soda like Sprite. Add a few drops of peppermint extract for the minty kick. The feel will be the same, just no booze.
- → How long ahead can I prepare them?
- Go ahead and make them 2-3 days early. Keep 'em covered in the fridge and wait until serving to spritz on the cream and sprinkle hearts.
- → Why shouldn’t the gelatin boil?
- Overheating the gelatin can mess up its ability to set. Just warm it enough to dissolve for the right texture.
- → Can lime jello replace unflavored gelatin?
- Totally! Try a 3oz lime jello pack with 1 cup of boiling water and about 1/2 to 1 cup of vodka. It'll taste a bit sweeter than the original.
- → What’s the benefit of vanilla vodka here?
- Vanilla vodka gives it a sweet, smooth taste. If you use plain vodka, toss in 1/4 cup white sugar to balance the flavor. The vanilla blends perfectly with the peppermint.