Strawberry Daiquiri Jello Shots

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Prep time 15 minutes

Cooking time 4 hours

Total time 4 hours 15 minutes

Servings 12 shots

Strawberry Daiquiri Jello Shots are my go to party trick when I need something fun, fast, and basically impossible to ignore on the snack table. You know those moments when you said you would bring “something small” and then you realize you need it to actually be good? Yep. That is exactly where these come in. They taste like a fruity little vacation, but they are still simple enough to make on a weeknight. And because you can make them ahead, you are not stuck in the kitchen while everyone else is hanging out.

The Story Behind This Recipe

Here’s why I love this Strawberry Daiquiri Jello Shots: it uses pantry staples and it tastes like a bakery treat. Strawberry Daiquiri Jello Shots are my go to party trick when I need something fun, fast, and basically impossible to ignore on the snack table. You…

Alexandraa

Why We Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it hits that sweet spot between nostalgic and grown up. It is basically the classic strawberry daiquiri vibe, but in a cute little cup you can grab and go. The flavor is bright and fruity, and you can make it as strong or as light as you want depending on the crowd.

Another reason I keep coming back to Strawberry Daiquiri Jello Shots is that they are forgiving. If your strawberries are super sweet, great. If they are a little tart, also great because the gelatin mix balances it out. Plus, they look adorable lined up on a tray, especially if you add a tiny garnish.

And if you are anything like me, you probably have a strawberry phase every spring and summer. When I am in that mood, I will also make something like this strawberry banana smoothie earlier in the day, then switch to these shots at night. It is called balance.

“I brought these to a girls night and they disappeared in ten minutes. Everyone kept asking if I bought them somewhere. Nope, just followed your steps and they set perfectly.”

Best part: they can be made a day ahead, so you can actually enjoy your own party.

Helpful Supplies

You do not need anything fancy, but a few basics make the process smoother and less messy. I learned the hard way that trying to pour liquid gelatin into tiny cups without a spout is a recipe for sticky countertops.

• Small plastic shot cups with lids if you are traveling with them
• Measuring cup or a bowl with a pouring spout
• Whisk or fork for mixing
• Small saucepan to heat the liquid
• Baking sheet to move the cups to the fridge without spills
• Paper towels because life happens

If you want them to look extra cute, grab a piping bag or a zip top bag for adding whipped cream later. Not required, just fun.

When I am doing a full strawberry dessert spread, I like adding something creamy nearby like this strawberry crunch cheesecake. The combo of creamy and fruity is always a win.

Strawberry Daiquiri Jello Shots Ingredients

Here is what I typically use. I am keeping it straightforward, because this is not the time to overcomplicate things. The goal is bold strawberry flavor, a little citrusy kick, and that classic jiggle.

• 1 box strawberry flavored gelatin (3 oz)
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 half cup cold water
• 1 half cup white rum (adjust to taste)
• 1 to 2 tablespoons lime juice (fresh is best, but bottled is fine)
• 1 half cup strawberry puree or very finely chopped strawberries
• Optional: 1 tablespoon sugar or honey if your strawberries are not sweet

If you want them to look extra pink and summery, choose strawberries that smell amazing right in the container. If they smell like nothing, they will taste like nothing. That little tip has saved me so many times.

Also, if you are planning a bigger party menu, strawberry desserts pair so well with these. Something like chocolate covered strawberry brownies is a total crowd pleaser next to a fruity shot.

Substitutions And Additions

This is where you can make these your own. Strawberry Daiquiri Jello Shots are super flexible, and honestly, that is why they are so popular for parties.

Make it stronger or lighter

If you want a stronger shot, you can reduce the cold water a bit and add a splash more rum. Just do not overdo the alcohol, because too much can keep them from setting properly. If you want them lighter, use more cold water and less rum.

Swap the alcohol

White rum is classic for a daiquiri flavor, but you can also use coconut rum for a tropical twist. Vodka works too, but the flavor will be less “daiquiri” and more “strawberry cocktail.”

Add fun extras

Here are a few additions I have tried and liked:

Extra lime zest for a punchy citrus smell, mini strawberry slices tucked against the cup for a pretty look, or a tiny swirl of whipped cream right before serving.

And if you are skipping alcohol, you can still make a cute strawberry version with lemon lime soda or sparkling water instead of rum. It becomes a fun dessert snack for baby showers or family parties.

How To Make This Strawberry Daiquiri Jello Shots Recipe

This is the part where you will feel like you are barely cooking, because it is mostly mixing and waiting. The waiting is the hardest part, not going to lie.

Step by step directions

1. Set out your shot cups on a baking sheet. Trust me, it makes fridge transport so much easier.

2. In a bowl, add the strawberry gelatin powder.

3. Pour in 1 cup boiling water and whisk for about 2 minutes until the powder is fully dissolved. Take an extra 30 seconds here if you need it. Undissolved bits can mess with the texture.

4. Stir in the cold water, rum, lime juice, and strawberry puree. Mix until everything looks evenly combined.

5. Carefully pour the mixture into the shot cups. Fill them about three quarters full so they are easier to pick up without spills.

6. Refrigerate at least 3 to 4 hours, but I usually do overnight for the best set.

7. Right before serving, you can top with a tiny piece of strawberry or a little dollop of whipped cream.

My little “learned it the hard way” tips

Do not use fresh pineapple near gelatin shots since it can prevent setting. Chill them on a flat surface so they do not set at an angle. And if you are traveling with them, lids are your best friend.

If you are going full strawberry themed party, I also love having something soft and bakery style like strawberry cheesecake filled donuts on the side. People go crazy for that combo.

Common Questions

Can I make Strawberry Daiquiri Jello Shots the day before?

Yes, and I actually recommend it. They set better overnight and you are not rushing the day of your party.

How long do they last in the fridge?

They are best within 3 to 4 days. Keep them covered so they do not pick up fridge smells.

Why did my shots not set?

Usually it is too much alcohol or the mixture was not mixed well enough. Stick close to the liquid amounts and dissolve the gelatin completely in the boiling water.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yep. Thaw them first and then blend or chop. Frozen strawberries can be super flavorful, especially out of season.

How do I make them less sweet?

Add a bit more lime juice and use unsweetened strawberry puree. You can also skip any extra sugar entirely.

A Sweet Send Off

If you need a simple party treat that feels festive with almost zero stress, Strawberry Daiquiri Jello Shots are it. They are fruity, easy to prep ahead, and totally customizable once you get the basic method down. If you want extra inspiration, I found helpful notes on Strawberry Daiquiri Jello Shots – Planning Inspired and a super handy walkthrough on Strawberry Daiquiri Jello Shots {Video} – Tammilee Tips when you feel like watching someone make them. Put them on a tray, add a tiny strawberry garnish, and watch them disappear. Let me know if you make them for a party, because I love hearing what little twists you tried.