Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These jello shots don’t just look cute—they taste like a creamy pink Starburst candy with a refreshing citrus twist. Made with strawberry jello, lemon juice, and Cool Whip, they’re bright, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. With no alcohol, they’re ideal for family-friendly parties or fun afternoon treats.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 package strawberry jello (any brand, Simply Delish vegan jello works well)
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1 1/2 cups boiling water
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1 cup Cool Whip
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1/2 cup lemon juice
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Optional: 1 shot sour mix or 1 shot extra lemon juice
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Optional: pink Starburst candies for garnish
Directions
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Prepare the strawberry jello according to the package instructions. Adjust the amount of hot water as needed depending on your jello brand.
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In a mixing bowl, pour the boiling water over the jello powder and whisk until fully dissolved.
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Add the lemon juice and sour mix (if using) to the mixture and whisk well.
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Stir in the Cool Whip and whisk until smooth. The mixture should become light pink with small bubbles on top.
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Carefully pour the mixture into small shot cups.
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Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until the jello is firm.
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Optional: top with a dollop of Cool Whip and a pink Starburst before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: About 12–16 jello shots, depending on the size of your cups
Prep time: 5 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Variations
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Vegan Version: Use a vegan jello brand and ensure your whipped topping is dairy-free. Omit the Starburst garnish unless you confirm it’s vegan-friendly.
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Citrus Twist: Add lime juice or orange juice for a more complex citrus flavor.
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Extra Sweetness: Mix in a tablespoon of honey or agave syrup if you prefer a sweeter shot.
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Layered Look: Use multiple jello flavors in layers, letting each layer firm before adding the next.
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Candy Garnish: Top with gummy candies or sour belts instead of Starburst for fun alternatives.
Storage/Reheating
Store the jello shots in the refrigerator with lids or plastic wrap on each cup. They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. Avoid freezing, as the texture will be compromised. Do not attempt to reheat jello shots; they are meant to be served chilled.
FAQs
1. Can I make these jello shots ahead of time?
Yes, they can be made a day or two in advance. Just keep them covered and refrigerated until ready to serve.
2. How do I make them without Cool Whip?
You can skip the Cool Whip, but the texture will be more like classic jello. For a creamy alternative, use whipped coconut cream.
3. What kind of cups should I use for jello shots?
Small plastic or silicone shot cups (1–2 oz) with lids work best for easy serving and storage.
4. Can I use another citrus juice instead of lemon?
Yes, lime, orange, or grapefruit juice can be used for different flavors.
5. Are these good for kids?
Absolutely! Since this version uses lemon juice instead of soda, it’s completely kid-friendly.
6. Can I use flavored Cool Whip?
Yes, flavored or colored whipped toppings can add a fun twist to the appearance and taste.
7. How can I transport jello shots to a party?
Use cups with lids and keep them chilled in a cooler or insulated bag during transport.
8. Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely. Just scale up all ingredients evenly and ensure you have enough fridge space for the additional cups.
9. Do I need to spray the cups with nonstick spray?
No, it’s not necessary. The shots should come out easily with a small spoon or by gently squeezing the sides of the cup.
Conclusion
These Pink Starburst Jello Shots are a cheerful that’s perfect for parties, holidays, and family gatherings. With a citrusy lemon twist and a creamy texture, they’re easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a kid’s birthday or just want a fun snack, this recipe brings a splash of pink joy to any occasion.
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Pink Starburst Jello Shots Recipe
Description
These Pink Starburst Jello Shots are a fun treat with a creamy strawberry flavor and a citrusy twist. Perfect for parties, kids’ events, or themed celebrations, they’re colorful, sweet, and easy to make.
Ingredients
1 package strawberry jello (any brand, Simply Delish vegan jello works well)
1 1/2 cups boiling water
1 cup Cool Whip
1/2 cup lemon juice
Optional: 1 shot sour mix or 1 shot extra lemon juice
Optional: pink Starburst candies for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the strawberry jello according to the package instructions, adjusting the hot water amount as needed for your brand.
- In a mixing bowl, pour the boiling water over the jello powder and whisk until fully dissolved.
- Add the lemon juice and sour mix (if using) and whisk until combined.
- Stir in the Cool Whip and whisk until the mixture is smooth and light pink with small bubbles on top.
- Carefully pour the mixture into small shot cups.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until the jello is firm.
- Optional: Before serving, top with a dollop of Cool Whip and a pink Starburst candy.
Notes
Use vegan jello and dairy-free whipped topping for a vegan version.
Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days. Do not freeze.
For a layered look, let each jello layer set before adding the next.
Cool Whip can be replaced with whipped coconut cream for a different texture.
Use small 1–2 oz plastic or silicone shot cups with lids for easy serving and transport.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jello shot
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
