Champagne is, of course, a classic for your New Year’s Eve celebration. So, I’m making it into a fun, boozy treat you can eat with these champagne Jello shots! They’re great for your holiday parties, and best of all, you can make them in advance for some low stress entertaining.
What Are Champagne Jello Shots?
Champagne Jello shots are a fun, festive twist on classic Jello shots, made by combining champagne (or sparkling wine) with gelatin and a little soda as a sweetener to create an edible version of your favorite celebratory drink!
You can serve them in small cups or molds, or cut them into stackable cubes! It’s like a party in a single bite, making champagne Jello shots popular for New Year’s Eve, weddings, or holiday celebrations.
For a flavor variation, also check out my Pink Champagne Jello Shots which are strawberry, and great for bridal showers, Valentine’s Day, and more!
Feel free to customize yours by using different flavors of Jello, champagne, prosecco, or different sparkling wines and sweeteners, and of course by adding your favorite sparkling sprinkles on top! Try my French 75 Jello Shots made with champagne and gin!
Quick + Easy Recipes
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Ingredients Needed
- 3 cups champagne, prosecco, or cava
- 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup vodka
- ½ cup Sprite (or another lemon-lime soda)
- 4 Tbsp (4 packets) unflavored plain gelatin (like Knox)
- Gold sprinkles (or your favorite)
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
- You can use any type of sparkling wine you like. Prosecco is sweeter than champagne. Feel free to substitute sparkling white grape juice or cider (and omit the vodka, adding more Sprite or some water) for a mocktail version without alcohol!
- The Sprite can be swapped for ginger ale as well, if preferred
- For a stronger shot, use 1 cup of vodka instead, and add ¼ cup granulated sugar instead of the liquid soda
Equipment Notes
I prefer to make my champagne Jello shots in an 8×8 baking dish so that I can cut them into cubes for serving (they look cute in a cocktail glass or on a serving tray)!
However, you can also portion them into individual Jello shot cups for display on a table. Add fun mini tasting spoons to make them easier to eat!Of course, there are other ways to eat a Jello shot, so the spoons are totally optional.
How to Make Champagne Jello Shots
- Line an 8×8 pan with plastic wrap (including the sides). If you plan to put your shots in cups, you can skip this step
- In a large bowl, mix the gelatin, Sprite, lemon juice, and vodka together. Let stand for 1-2 minutes
- Add the champagne to a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high in the microwave until boiling (212°F). Time will depend on microwave wattage and bowl size, but 5 minutes in a 1000W microwave is what I do
- Carefully pour the hot champagne into the gelatin mixture, and stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved, about 2-3 minutes
- Pour into the lined pan (or use a funnel or something with a spout to pour into individual shot cups). You can add some extra sprinkles into the bottom of the pan if you want for extra sparkle – that’s why mine is a bit gold tinted
- Place in the refrigerator until firm, usually 3-4 hours. Then, slice into 1” cubes (or as desired)
- Top with festive gold sprinkles before serving. Enjoy!
Additional Topping Ideas
Fruity Garnishes
- Fresh Berries: Top with raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries for a pop of color and freshness
- Citrus Zest: Sprinkle grated lemon, lime, or orange zest for a zesty aroma and visual flair
- Pomegranate Seeds: Add for a festive, jewel-like appearance!
Edible Glitter and Decorations
- Edible Glitter or Luster Dust: Sprinkle gold or silver edible glitter on top to give the shots a glamorous sparkle!
- Gold or Silver Sprinkles: Add a touch of luxury with metallic sprinkles or edible stars
- Sugar Crystals: Create a “frosted” look with coarse sanding sugar. If you’re using cups, you can also rim the cups with sugar (dip the rim in simple syrup, then into the sugar to coat)
- Pop Rocks. For a fizzy, popping, and celebratory twist, top with some Pop Rocks candy!
Dessert-Inspired Toppings
- Whipped Cream: Add a dollop for a creamy contrast
- Chocolate Shavings: Pairs with the champagne for a decadent flavor twist
- Candied Citrus Peel: Place a small piece of candied orange or lemon peel for added sweetness and elegance!
Herbal or Floral Accents
- Edible Flowers: Use pansies, violets, or small rose petals for a sophisticated touch
- Rosemary Sprigs: Perfect for a winter-themed party, adding an aromatic note
- Mint Leaves: A refreshing option, especially for fruity variations
Other Creative Ideas
- Mini Macarons: Place a small macaron on top for a French-inspired flair!
- Tiny Champagne Bubbles Candy: Use bubble-shaped candies or boba pearls for a playful nod to champagne
- Maraschino Cherries: A classic garnish that adds a sweet burst of flavor!
- Football Jello Shots
Recipe FAQs
What is the Best Vodka For Jello Shots?
The best vodka for Jello shots depends on your taste preferences and budget. For a smooth flavor, use a mid-range vodka like Tito’s, Smirnoff, or Absolut.
If you want to add a flavor twist, try a fruit-flavored vodka, such as citrus or vanilla, to complement the champagne flavor. Avoid overly cheap vodka, as it may have a harsh taste that stands out in the shots.
Is 1 Cup of Vodka Too Much for Jello Shots?
For a standard box of flavored Jello (3 ounces), 1 cup of vodka is too much as it may prevent the Jello from setting. Use ½ to ¾ cup of vodka depending on strength preferences.
This recipe uses unflavored gelatin, which works slightly differently, so you could use up to 1 cup. However, I find it too strong in combination with the champagne, so I choose to only use ½ cup.
Are You Supposed to Chew or Swallow Jello Shots?
Jello shots are meant to be fun, so it’s up to you! Some people chew to enjoy the flavor, while others swallow them whole for convenience.
Either approach works, but using your tongue or a small spoon to loosen the shot from the cup can make it easier to consume.
How to Make Jello Shots Easier to Eat?
To make Jello shots easier to eat, lightly grease the inside of the cups with nonstick spray before pouring the mixture. You can also use flexible silicone molds, which allow the shots to pop out easily.
By making them in a square pan like I do here, you can cut them into individual cubes, which prevents having to mess with cups entirely!
Recipe Pro Tips For the Best Champagne Jello Shots
- If you use Jello shot cups, you’ll need about 20 of them. Try to fill them as evenly as possible, and leave a little space at the top so the lid doesn’t leave a depression in the Jello
- When using individual plastic shot glasses, set them on a baking sheet with filling (to catch any drips). This also makes it convenient to transfer them into and out of the fridge!
- Use a champagne or prosecco that you really like – the flavor is strong and prominent in these jellies!
- As written, this recipe is not overly sweet. It’s more like drinking a traditional glass of champagne in cube form!
Advance Preparation and Storage of Champagne Jello Shots
- Champagne Jello shots last in the refrigerator for up to one week in an airtight container (or in individual cups with the lids on)
- For best results, make champagne Jello shots no more than 2 days in advance, as this will give you the best flavor and texture. Store in the fridge until ready to serve!
- Pot of Gold Mimosa
Final Thoughts
These champagne Jello shots are a fun and festive addition to New Year’s Eve parties, bridal showers, bachelorette parties, and other celebratory occasions! They’re delicious, sparkly, and add an elegant and boozy touch.
You can cut them into individual squares for an easy to eat treat, or make them in individual cups that guests can easily grab and consume. Either way, these jelly shots are always a crowd pleaser!
Of course, you can customize this champagne Jello shot recipe to your specific tastes and occasion by using different flavors of champagne, sodas, or even experimenting with juices and fun garnishes like sprinkles or edible gold stars!
Champagne Jello Shots With Vodka
Equipment
- Spatula (or spoon/whisk)
- Square pan (8×8 or 9×9)
Ingredients
- 3 cups champagne or prosecco
- 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup vodka
- ½ cup Sprite (or another lemon-lime soda)
- 4 Tbsp (4 packets) unflavored plain gelatin (like Knox)
- 2-3 Tbsp Gold sprinkles (or similar)
Instructions
- Line an 8×8 pan with plastic wrap (including the sides). If you plan to put your shots in cups, you can skip this step
- In a large bowl, mix the gelatin, Sprite, lemon juice, and vodka together. Let stand for 1-2 minutes1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice, ½ cup vodka, ½ cup Sprite, 4 Tbsp (4 packets) unflavored plain gelatin
- Add the champagne to a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high in the microwave until boiling (212°F). Time will depend on microwave wattage and bowl size, but 5 minutes in a 1000W microwave is what I do3 cups champagne or prosecco
- Carefully pour the hot champagne into the gelatin mixture, and stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved, about 2-3 minutes
- Pour into the lined pan (or use a funnel or something with a spout to pour into individual shot cups). You can add some extra sprinkles into the bottom of the pan if you want for extra sparkle – that’s why mine is a bit gold tinted
- Place in the refrigerator until firm, usually 3-4 hours. Then, slice into 1” cubes (or as desired)
- Top with festive gold sprinkles before serving. Enjoy!2-3 Tbsp Gold sprinkles
Notes
- You can use any type of sparkling wine you like. Prosecco is sweeter than champagne. Feel free to substitute sparkling white grape juice or cider (and omit the vodka, adding more Sprite or some water) for a mocktail version without alcohol! Choose something you like – this will be the primary flavor!
- The Sprite can be swapped for ginger ale as well, if preferred
- For a stronger shot, use 1 cup of vodka instead, and add ¼ cup granulated sugar instead of the liquid soda
- As written, this recipe is not overly sweet. It’s more like drinking a traditional glass of champagne in cube form!
- 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
