There’s something so wonderfully nostalgic about red, white, and blue treats. Growing up, my grandmother Betty had a tray she pulled out every Fourth of July, and it was always filled with tiny, wiggly Jello cups that looked just like the American flag. No alcohol, no fuss just colorful fun that made us kids feel like we were part of something festive and special.
These Red White & Blue American Flag Jello Shots were always a highlight of the party vibrant, sweet, and layered with love. This non-alcoholic version stays true to her tradition while making it perfect for kids, family gatherings, and summer BBQs.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Jello Shots
- Kid-friendly and alcohol-free: Everyone can enjoy them!
- Festive and fun: The perfect dessert for patriotic holidays.
- Easy to make ahead: Ideal for busy hosts and potlucks.
- Customizable: You can mix and match Jello flavors or even add toppings like whipped cream or sprinkles.
These Red White & Blue American Flag Jello Shots also make the perfect treat to hand out after the fireworks show or during a sunny backyard BBQ.
Ingredients
To make 60 non-alcoholic Jello shots (1 oz each), you’ll need:
- 1 box (3 oz) cherry Jello
- 1 box (3 oz) berry blue Jello
- 3 cups boiling water, divided
- 1½ cups cold water, divided
- 2 packets (0.25 oz each) unflavored gelatin (0.5 oz total)
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 60 disposable 1 oz plastic cups with lids
- Optional: Star sprinkles, whipped cream, or fruit for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Place your 60 1-ounce plastic cups on a tray or baking sheet. Make sure the tray fits in your refrigerator trust me, this will save you the headache of juggling wobbly cups later!
Step 2: Make the Blue Layer
- In a mixing bowl or spouted measuring cup, combine 1 cup of boiling water with the berry blue Jello. Whisk until fully dissolved.
- Add ½ cup of cold water. Stir to combine.
- Carefully pour the blue liquid into the cups, filling each about one-third full.
- Place the tray in the refrigerator and chill for 30 minutes or until the layer is firm.
For clean layers in your Red White & Blue American Flag Jello Shots, chilling time is key.
Step 3: Make the White Layer
- In a clean mixing bowl, pour ½ cup of cold water and sprinkle both packets of unflavored gelatin over it. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Stir in 1 cup of boiling water and whisk until fully dissolved.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk and whisk until smooth. Let it cool.
- Once the blue layer is set, pour the white mixture on top until the cups are two-thirds full.
- Chill again for 30 minutes.
Step 4: Make the Red Layer
- Whisk 1 cup of boiling water with the cherry Jello until dissolved.
- Stir in ½ cup cold water.
- Pour to the top of each cup.
- Chill for at least 2 hours or until fully set.
Top your Red White & Blue American Flag Jello Shots with sprinkles or fruit before serving.
Decorating & Serving
Decorate with:
- Whipped cream
- Blueberries or raspberries
- Star-shaped sprinkles
These Red White & Blue American Flag Jello Shots are easy to serve, transport, and display. Add festive flair with small American flag picks or themed napkins!
How to Store Red White & Blue American Flag Jello Shots
Store in the refrigerator in airtight containers or with the plastic lids on. They’ll last up to 7 days, but for the best texture and color, enjoy within 3–4 days. Don’t leave them outside for long Jello melts!
FAQs
How to store them?
Jello shots should be stored in the fridge in an airtight container or with lids. If left out too long at room temperature or outdoors, they’ll lose their shape.
How many does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 60 one-ounce jello shots.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is easily doubled or even tripled—just make sure you’ve got enough space in your fridge and enough small cups.
How long do jello shots keep?
Up to 7 days in the fridge, covered. For best taste and presentation, try to serve them within 3–4 days.
🎉 Celebrate with a Crowd-Pleaser Dessert
Planning a patriotic party? These Red White & Blue American Flag Jello Shots are guaranteed to steal the spotlight. With their vivid layers and festive flair, they’re more than just a sweet treat they’re a visual celebration of the stars and stripes. Because they’re non-alcoholic, you can confidently serve them to guests of all ages. Whether it’s a Fourth of July bash or a Memorial Day cookout, these Red White & Blue American Flag Jello Shots add color, fun, and flavor to any occasion. Want more ideas? Check out our dessert recipes for equally delightful party-ready inspiration.
Easy to Transport and Serve Anywhere
Transporting desserts to summer events like parades, BBQs, or beach picnics can be a hassle—but not with these Red White & Blue American Flag Jello Shots. Their compact size, secure plastic lids, and firm texture make them incredibly easy to stack in a cooler and take on the go. Whether you’re feeding a few friends or an entire neighborhood block party, handing out these mini desserts takes seconds. There’s no need for plates, knives, or even napkins—just pop the lid and enjoy! You can also customize them with themed toppers or mini American flags to add that extra festive touch. This makes them an ideal option not just for July 4th, but also for Memorial Day, Labor Day, and other red-white-and-blue holidays. It’s all about convenience without compromising on creativity or flavor.
A Healthier, Guilt-Free Patriotic Treat
While summer celebrations often involve indulgent desserts like pies, cakes, and cookies, these Red White & Blue American Flag Jello Shots offer a lighter alternative that won’t leave you feeling sluggish. Made primarily from flavored gelatin and sweetened condensed milk, they’re lower in fat and calories than most traditional treats. And if you want to make them even healthier, simply opt for sugar-free Jello or a reduced-sugar condensed milk. For a boost of natural flavor and color, top each cup with fresh blueberries, raspberries, or sliced strawberries fruits that not only enhance the patriotic theme but also offer antioxidants and vitamins. These small but mighty cups deliver on taste, texture, and nutrition, all in one festive bite. Want to know more about the meaning behind red, white, and blue celebrations? Visit Wikipedia’s Fourth of July article to dive into the holiday’s fascinating history.
Final Thoughts
Celebrate in style and flavor by serving these easy, alcohol-free Red White & Blue American Flag Jello Shots. They’re the perfect blend of nostalgia, family fun, and patriotic pride. So whether you’re setting up for a backyard bash or packing a picnic for fireworks, bring the joy and color with these make-ahead party favorites.
Red White & Blue American Flag Jello Shots
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- Tray or Baking Sheet
- Refrigerator
Ingredients
Jello Base
- 1 box cherry Jello (3 oz)
- 1 box berry blue Jello (3 oz)
- 3 cups boiling water divided
- 1.5 cups cold water divided
- 2 packets unflavored gelatin (0.25 oz each) 0.5 oz total
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 60 cups disposable 1 oz plastic cups with lids
Optional Garnish
- star sprinkles optional
- whipped cream optional
- fruit for garnish optional
Instructions
- Place 60 1-oz plastic cups on a tray or baking sheet. Ensure it fits in your refrigerator.
- Blue Layer: Dissolve berry blue Jello in 1 cup boiling water. Add 0.5 cup cold water. Pour into cups to fill 1/3. Chill 30 mins.
- White Layer: Sprinkle gelatin over 0.5 cup cold water. Let sit 5 mins. Add 1 cup boiling water, whisk to dissolve. Stir in sweetened condensed milk. Cool, then pour to fill 2/3 of cups. Chill 30 mins.
- Red Layer: Dissolve cherry Jello in 1 cup boiling water. Add 0.5 cup cold water. Pour on top. Chill at least 2 hours.
- Decorate with whipped cream, sprinkles, or fruit. Cover with lids for transport.