Apple Cider Jello Shots

Seasonal jello shots are a party must-have in my eyes, and I think you’re going to love these fall themed boozy treats! They’re sweet, spiced, and full of seasonal flavor — like a cozy mug of cider, but with a fun little kick. Made with real apple cider, cinnamon whiskey (Fireball is my recommendation), and unflavored gelatin, they come together in just a few simple steps and chill until they’re firm and jiggly.

They’re perfect for Halloween parties, bonfire nights, or any fall gathering where you want to surprise your guests with something a little playful. Top them with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, and a thin apple slice for a treat that’s equal parts cute and crowd-pleasing. Trust me — these will disappear faster than the candy corn! 

(If you’re planning a fall party, I also recommend my Fireball apple cider, salted caramel rice krispie treats, and Halloween ghost cornflake cookies!) 

Ingredients

I know that many regular readers prefer a printable recipe card, and so I’ve included one at the bottom of this post! Feel free to skip right down if you’re ready to make these apple cider jello shots straightaway. If you want to know more about the process and a little science behind the recipe, keep reading… 

• Hot apple cider: You’ll need this to dissolve the gelatin. Heat it until it’s steamy, but not boiling. Fresh cider from the store or orchard works best for that deep fall flavor.

• Fireball whiskey: This gives the jello shots their signature cinnamon-spice kick. You can swap in another cinnamon whiskey or even regular bourbon if you prefer a milder flavor.

• Cold apple cider: Used to bloom the gelatin. It helps everything set up nice and smooth — and adds even more apple flavor.

• Unflavored gelatin: This is what turns the liquid into jiggly, festive goodness. Make sure it’s unflavored so it doesn’t compete with the cider and whiskey.

• Whipped cream (optional garnish): A fun and creamy topping that makes these feel like a mini dessert. Store-bought or homemade — either works!

• Red apple slices (optional garnish): Thin slices add a cute (and crunchy!) fall touch on top. They’re optional, but they make the shots extra party-ready.

• Cinnamon sugar (optional garnish): A quick sprinkle over the whipped cream adds cozy spice and a little sparkle. Mix your own or use a store-bought blend.

How To Make Apple Cider Jello Shots

• Bloom the gelatin: In a medium bowl, pour in the cold apple cider and sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over the top. Give it a gentle stir just to make sure all the powder is moistened — no need to go wild here. Stirring too much can make it clumpy.
• Let it sit: Let the mixture rest for about 3 minutes to let the gelatin bloom and do its thing.

• Dissolve the gelatin: Now pour in the hot apple cider and stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.

• Add the booze: Stir in the Fireball. Give it a quick mix to combine.

• Fill and chill: Pour the mixture into your shot cups, filling each about ¾ of the way full. Transfer them to the fridge and chill for at least 2 hours, or until they’re fully set.
• Garnish and serve: Right before serving, add a swirl of whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, and a thin apple slice on top if you’re feeling fancy. Then pass them around — cheers!

Storage Tips

Hold off on adding the whipped cream and garnishes until just before serving — they don’t hold up well in the fridge. To store the jello shots, cover each cup with a lid or plastic wrap and keep them in the fridge for up to 4 days. Don’t freeze them — the texture gets weird and icy, and nobody wants that.

Recipe Notes & Tips

You can use room temperature apple cider instead of cold for blooming the gelatin — just make sure it’s not warm or hot, or the gelatin won’t set properly.

For a polished party look, I like to use a piping bag with a frosting tip to swirl the whipped cream on top. Totally optional, but it makes the shots look extra cute and Instagram-ready.

If your mixture ends up with a few gelatin lumps (it happens!), don’t stress. Just pour it through a fine mesh sieve before filling your shot cups — problem solved, and your jello shots will still turn out perfectly smooth.

Serving Ideas

These apple cider jello shots are made for fall parties — think Halloween gatherings, backyard bonfires, or Friendsgiving with your favorite people. Serve them on a rustic tray or mini cupcake stand, and don’t forget the whipped cream and cinnamon sugar right before they hit the table. Want to take it up a notch? Add a few fake leaves, mini pumpkins, or plastic spiders for a Halloween-ready presentation. They’re sweet, spiced, and just the right size for a little autumn mischief.

Whether you’re hosting a Halloween bash, a cozy fall get-together, or just looking for a fun way to serve drinks, these apple cider jello shots are always a hit. They’re sweet, spiced, and just the right amount of extra — especially with a little whipped cream on top. If you give them a try, tag me or leave a comment and let me know how they went down with your crowd (bonus points if you made them spooky!)