Who doesn’t love a caramel apple? It’s the perfect fall sweet treat, albeit a little messy to eat usually. That’s why I love these caramel apple Jello shots! They’re all the flavors you love in a simple, make ahead, individually portioned treat that’s easy to eat (plus a boozy kick for the adults)!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect fall flavor. Sweet caramel and crisp apple taste just like a caramel apple in shot form. Prefer a more classic shooter? Check out my layered Caramel Apple Shot instead!
- Fun party treat. Great for Halloween parties, tailgates, and other fall parties
- Easy to make ahead. Prep them in advance and keep chilled until party time
- Sweet with a little tartness. The apple flavor keeps them balanced and refreshing
- Customizable. Use different liquors, caramel sauces, or garnishes to make them your own!
- Great presentation. Caramels or apple slice garnishes make them extra festive
- Crowd-pleasing flavor combo. Caramel and apple is a classic pairing almost everyone loves!
- Dessert and cocktail in one. A fun boozy treat that feels a little nostalgic and playful
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Ingredients List
- 3.94 oz box Sonic green apple Jello
- ½ cup Crown Royal apple whiskey (or apple flavored vodka)
- ½ cup butterscotch schnapps
- 2 cups water
- Caramel sauce (I use Ghirardelli)
- Optional toppings (whipped cream, caramel or apple candies, or apple slices)
- 24 Jello shot cups (or similar)
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
- The Sonic brand of Jello is slightly larger than a standard 3-ounce box of Jello. You can absolutely use Jolly Rancher or another brand of green apple Jello if you like, but you’ll want to adjust down to ¼ cup each of whiskey/vodka and schnapps, 1 ½ cups water, and around 15 shot cups instead
- Plain whiskey or vodka is also alright since there is some apple flavor in the Jello (but I think using flavored is a great addition)
- You can also use caramel vodka or whiskey, and then use sour apple pucker schnapps instead of the butterscotch schnapps (basically reverse the flavors)
- Any caramel sauce you like is fine. Torani and Ghirardelli are thick, but you can use a thinner ice cream style caramel sauce if preferred, or even use melted caramel candies
Step By Step Instructions
- Boil 1 ½ cups of water. Add it to a large microwave-safe mixing bowl or measuring cup, and heat until bubbling all over, at least 212°F (this takes me about 3 ½ minutes on high in a 1000W microwave). You could also use a kettle or heat it on your stovetop. Add the green apple Jello, and stir or whisk until completely dissolved
- Stir in the whiskey or vodka, butterscotch schnapps, and the remaining ½ cup of cold water, mixing to combine
- Pour the Jello mixture into your shot cups (leave a little head space so the lids don’t leave imprints). I like to place mine on a baking sheet, which catches drips and allows for easy transfer to and from the fridge
- Cover the shots (if your shot glasses don’t have lids, use plastic wrap) and transfer to the fridge for at least 4 hours (but longer is fine too) until set
- Drizzle the top of each shot with caramel sauce (and any other edible decorations as desired) just before serving. Enjoy!
Pairing Suggestions
Savory Pairings
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Classic apple-and-cheese pairing with a savory contrast
- Pretzels: Salty crunch balances the caramel sweetness
- Candied bacon: Sweet, smoky, and perfect for fall parties. Try my Bacon Wrapped Apples to double down on flavors!
- Charcuterie boards: Meats, cheeses, nuts, and fruit all pair naturally with apple flavors
Fall Snacks
- Caramel popcorn: Doubles down on the caramel flavor in the best way
- Spiced nuts: Warm cinnamon and spice flavors complement the apple notes
- Pumpkin dip: Creamy and seasonal for a festive spread
- Mini apple pies: A fun dessert pairing for apple lovers!
Fruity Options
- Apple slices with caramel dip: A playful match for the shots. My Air Fryer Apple Fries are a fun choice!
- Pear slices: Light and juicy with similar fall vibes
- Grapes: Fresh and refreshing between richer bites
Drink Pairings
- Hard apple cider: Crisp apple flavor that fits perfectly with the shots.
- Hot apple cider: Warm and cozy for cooler weather gatherings.
- Sparkling water: Light and refreshing between sweet treats.
- Caramel apple martini: A fun cocktail pairing for full-on fall dessert vibes! Or, try my classic Appletini Cocktail for sweet tart flavor!
When to Serve
Perfect for Halloween parties, Friendsgiving, tailgates, bonfires, and cozy fall gatherings where fun seasonal flavors are the star!
Recipe FAQs
What Is The Best Alcohol To Put In Jell-O Shots?
Vodka is a popular choice because its neutral flavor works with almost any Jello flavor. However, flavored vodkas, rum, tequila, whiskey, and liqueurs can all work well depending on the recipe. For caramel apple Jello shots, caramel or apple vodka or whiskey pairs especially nicely.
What Jello Flavor Goes With Caramel Vodka?
Apple Jello is one of the best pairings for caramel vodka because it creates that classic caramel apple flavor combination. Other good options include butterscotch, vanilla, cinnamon apple, or even cherry for a sweeter twist.
What Not To Do When Making Jell-O Shots?
Avoid using too much alcohol, or the Jello may not set properly. It’s also important not to skip the boiling water, since it’s needed to fully dissolve the gelatin. Finally, don’t rush the chilling time, as Jello shots need several hours in the refrigerator to fully firm up.
Tips For the Best Caramel Apple Jello Shots
- Due to the caramel topping, I think these shots are best served with a small spoon for enjoying (it’s a little messy trying to just suck them out of the cups)!
- As long as you don’t use a super thick caramel sauce (by super thick I mean it requires a spoon to get it out of the jar), it should self level as you pour it over the chilled Jello
- I use a large microwave-safe measuring cup to mix my Jello, as the pour spout makes it easy to fill the cups. If you don’t have one, you can also use a ladle, pitcher, or similar
Serving and Make Ahead Tips
- Serve well chilled. Caramel apple Jello shots taste best straight from the refrigerator (though the caramel flows easiest at room temperature, so add it just before serving)
- Use small cups with lids for parties. Easy transport and simple cleanup for gatherings and tailgates!
- Make them a day ahead. Jello shots are perfect for prepping in advance since they need time to fully set
- Leave room in the cups. This makes it easier to add the caramel garnish later, and prevents the lids from creating indents
- Keep them cold outdoors. If serving outside, place the cups on a tray over ice to help them stay cold longer
- You could also serve these shots in hollowed out apples (similar to the style of my Lavender Lemonade Jello Shots). Use a melon baller to remove the inside of the apples, add the apple halves to the cups of a muffin pan for stability, then pour the apple caramel jello mixture in and allow them to set before slicing lengthwise with a sharp paring knife (or similar) into slices
More Fall Jello Shots
- Sour Green Apple Jello Shots
- Apple Pie Jello Shots
- Cranberry Jello Shots
- Fireball Apple Jello Shots
Final Thoughts
These caramel apple Jello shots are such a fun fall treat (for the adults, thanks to their boozy kick)! I make mine with Crown Royal apple whiskey and I think the warming flavors are perfect, but they’re equally good with an apple or caramel vodka too, making them super customizable.
They’re one of those treats that are easy to make ahead, which is perfect for parties! Just let them sit overnight and top right before serving. These caramel apple shots are great for any fall occasion, like Thanksgiving, Halloween, tailgates, or any other party!
Katie’s tip
For more fall-forward boozy creations, check out all of my Crown Apple Drink Recipes for inspiration!
Caramel Apple Jello Shots (Whiskey or Vodka)
Servings: 20
These caramel apple Jello shots are a perfect boozy party treat for fall! Make them with caramel or apple whiskey or vodka, for a delicious crowd-pleasing option.
Equipment
- Microwave safe bowl (or large microwave safe measuring cup)
- Spatula (or whisk/spoon for mixing)
Ingredients
- 3.94 ounce box Sonic green apple Jello
- ½ cup Crown Royal apple whiskey (or apple flavored vodka)
- ½ cup butterscotch schnapps
- 2 cups water (divided)
- Caramel sauce (such as Ghirardelli)
- Optional toppings as desired (such as whipped cream, caramel or apple candies, or apple slices)
Instructions
- Boil 1 ½ cups of water. Add it to a large microwave-safe mixing bowl or measuring cup, and heat until bubbling all over, at least 212°F (this takes about 3 ½ minutes on high in a 1000W microwave). You could also use a kettle or heat it on your stovetop. Add the green apple Jello, and stir or whisk until completely dissolved3.94 ounce box Sonic green apple Jello, 2 cups water
- Stir in the whiskey or vodka, butterscotch schnapps, and the remaining ½ cup of cold water, mixing to combine½ cup Crown Royal apple whiskey, ½ cup butterscotch schnapps, 2 cups water
- Pour the Jello mixture into your shot cups (leave a little head space so the lids don’t leave imprints). I place mine on a baking sheet, which catches drips and allows for easy transfer to and from the fridge
- Cover the shots and transfer to the fridge for at least 4 hours (but longer is fine too) until set
- Drizzle the top of each shot with caramel sauce (and any other edible decorations desired) just before serving. Enjoy!Caramel sauce, Optional toppings as desired (such as whipped cream, caramel or apple candies, or apple slices)
Notes
- Sonic brand Jello is slightly larger than a standard 3-ounce box of Jell-o. You can absolutely use Jolly Rancher or another brand of green apple Jello instead, but you’ll want to adjust down to ¼ cup each of whiskey/vodka and schnapps, 1 ½ cups water, and around 15 shot cups instead
- You can also use caramel vodka or whiskey, and then use sour apple pucker schnapps instead of the butterscotch schnapps (basically reverse the flavors)
- Any caramel sauce you like is fine. Torani and Ghirardhelli are thick, but you can use a thinner ice cream style caramel sauce too
- Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand and flavor of ingredients, any toppings added, and quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
Nutrition
Serving: 27g | Calories: 85kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 0.5g | Fat: 1.3g | Saturated Fat: 0.9g | Cholesterol: 5mg | Sodium: 52mg | Potassium: 0.2mg | Sugar: 11g
