Who says fun is just for kids? The Root Beer Float Jello Shot brings together the nostalgic charm of a classic soda shop float with the playful, grown-up twist of vanilla vodka and gelatin. These adorable, jiggly desserts are part cocktail, part dessert, and 100% guaranteed to get guests smiling.
Perfect for BBQs, retro-themed parties, tailgates, or casual summer gatherings, these shots are a crowd-pleasing mashup of flavor and fun. With creamy vanilla, fizzy root beer, and a sweet topping of whipped cream and a maraschino cherry, they’re equal parts whimsy and wow.
Whether you’re serving them at a birthday bash, a throwback diner-style event, or just want something unique for your next hangout, these jello shots offer a simple and creative way to liven up your dessert table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup root beer (cold)
- 1 envelope unflavored gelatin
- 1/2 cup vanilla vodka
- 1/2 cup cream soda
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Maraschino cherries (optional) 🍒
- Mini plastic shot cups
Preparation
Step 1: Bloom the gelatin
In a small saucepan, pour in 1 cup of cold root beer. Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin evenly over the surface and let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes. This process, called blooming, softens the gelatin and prepares it for melting.
Step 2: Dissolve the gelatin
Place the saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly, until the gelatin fully dissolves. Do not let the mixture boil—boiling can ruin the gelatin’s setting ability.
Step 3: Add the booze and bubbles
Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla vodka and cream soda. Mix gently to preserve some of the soda’s natural fizz.
Step 4: Fill the shot cups
Use a measuring cup or spouted container to pour the liquid into mini plastic shot cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Leave space for the whipped cream topping.
Step 5: Chill and set
Place the filled cups on a tray and transfer them to the refrigerator. Let chill for 2–3 hours, or until fully set and jiggly to the touch.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Just before serving, top each shot with a dollop of whipped cream and finish with a bright maraschino cherry. Serve cold and enjoy the smiles.
Variation
Give your Root Beer Float Jello Shots a fun twist with these easy variations:
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Alcohol-Free Version: Replace vodka with a splash of vanilla extract and use only root beer and cream soda. Still fun and great for kids!
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Float Style: Layer vanilla pudding and root beer gelatin in cups for a creamy, spoonable dessert shot.
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Extra Creamy: Stir in 1–2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk to the mixture before setting for a richer, milkshake-like texture.
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Grown-Up Twist: Use whipped cream vodka or root beer-flavored vodka for even more retro soda shop flavor.
COOKING Note
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No Boiling: Always heat gently and avoid boiling the gelatin. Overheating can reduce its ability to set.
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Cold Root Beer Matters: Using cold soda for blooming helps the gelatin absorb evenly.
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Chill the cups first: Cold shot cups help the gelatin set faster and more evenly.
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Use a spouted container: Makes pouring into small cups easy and mess-free.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation is key when it comes to themed or whimsical treats like this. Make your Root Beer Float Jello Shots extra festive with these ideas:
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Serve in clear plastic cups so the dark root beer color stands out and the toppings are clearly visible.
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Add mini paper straws, soda-shop drink picks, or striped spoons for a nostalgic diner look.
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Display on a vintage tray, surrounded by striped napkins and retro candies like root beer barrels or bubble gum.
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Serve alongside a burger and fries bar for a fully themed experience.
Tips
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Double the batch: These are usually the first to disappear—make more than you think you need!
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Use canned whipped cream right before serving—it deflates quickly, so wait until the last moment.
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Don’t skip the garnish: The whipped cream and cherry combo seals the deal visually and flavor-wise.
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Best when fresh: Enjoy these within 24 hours for ideal texture, though they’ll hold for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 80
Protein: 0g
Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 12mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of vodka?
A: Definitely. Whipped cream vodka, caramel vodka, or even root beer vodka adds a fun spin on the flavor profile.
Q: How long do these last in the fridge?
A: They’re best within 24–48 hours, but will last up to 4 days if kept covered in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I use flavored gelatin instead of unflavored?
A: Technically yes, but it will change the taste. Unflavored gelatin lets the natural root beer and cream soda flavors shine.
Q: Can I freeze jello shots to set faster?
A: Not recommended. Freezing can change the texture of the gelatin and cause separation.
Q: What if I don’t have mini cups?
A: Use small ramekins, silicone molds, or even a muffin tin with liners.
Conclusion
The Root Beer Float Jello Shot is a playful, flavorful, and ultra-fun addition to any party. Combining the creamy fizz of a classic root beer float with the festive jello shot format makes this a show-stopping dessert cocktail that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
Whether you’re reminiscing about soda fountains or looking for a unique way to serve dessert and drinks in one, this recipe has everything: nostalgia, novelty, and just the right amount of boozy charm.
So grab your mini cups, whip up a batch, and float away on a wave of retro delight. 🍒🥤✨
[tasty-recipe id=”2121″]
