Let me just say mahalo from the bottom of my rum-loving heart for landing here—because today, we’re diving into a recipe that’s as wild and sunny as a Hawaiian luau in full swing. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or just dreaming of island breezes from your tiny apartment kitchen, these Hawaiian Hammer Jello Shots are here to whisk you away—no boarding pass required.

These aren’t your average wiggly party cubes. We’re talking layers of juicy pineapple and orange juice infused with coconut rum, banana liqueur, and a splash of 151-proof rum for that unmistakable tropical kick. Topped with a maraschino cherry or a cheeky little cocktail umbrella, these shots are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. They’re sweet, punchy, and dangerously easy to eat (and repeat).

What Are Hawaiian Hammer Jello Shots?

Hawaiian Hammer Jello Shots are tropical-inspired, gelatin-based shooters made with real fruit juice and a hearty blend of rum-based spirits. Unlike the standard neon Jell-O shots of your college days, these are more refined, balanced, and flavorful—though no less fun!

Layered with grenadine for that iconic sunrise effect and infused with pineapple, orange, and coconut flavors, they channel all the vibes of a beach bar at sunset. And let me tell you, the smell when you’re heating that juice with gelatin? Absolutely transportive.

These jello shots are ideal for:

Beach-themed parties
Summer BBQs
Bachelorette nights
Birthday blowouts
Any Tuesday when life feels a little too landlocked

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe

Ridiculously fun to make and serve
Perfectly sweet and strong
Looks impressive, tastes even better
Easy to make ahead and customize
Pairs well with all kinds of party food

And if you’re already swooning over the sound of these, you’ll definitely want to try some of my other party shot favorites like the Tequila Rose Layered Shot, the oh-so-fun Colorful Vodka Shots, or the nostalgic Butternut Rum Lifesaver Shot. Your next party just leveled up.

What Do They Taste Like?

They’re like a vacation in your mouth. Sweet pineapple and tangy orange dance with the creamy richness of coconut rum, all balanced by the bold burn of high-proof rum and the smooth tropical hint of banana liqueur. The grenadine adds a subtle tartness and makes every bite a little visual masterpiece.

Each shot is layered like a sunset and hits like one too—gently at first, then boom, full beach mode. They’re sweet, fruity, with a kiss of booze at the end. Trust me, you’ll be going back for seconds (and thirds).

The Benefits of These Boozy Beauties

Easy to prep ahead – Make them the night before, and they’re party-ready by go-time.
Portable and mess-free – No mixing or spilling at the party. Just peel and pop!
Fun to decorate and theme – Think flamingo picks, paper umbrellas, tropical fruit garnishes.
Delightfully strong – There’s a reason we call these “hammer” shots.

Ingredients List

Makes about 12–16 shots, depending on your cup size:

1 cup pineapple juice
1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup coconut rum
1/4 cup 151-proof rum (Don Q or Bacardi—go easy, this stuff is potent)
1/4 cup banana liqueur
1/4 cup grenadine (for layering)
2 envelopes unflavored gelatin (or pineapple-flavored for extra pop)
Optional Garnish: maraschino cherries, pineapple wedges, whipped cream, cocktail umbrellas

Tools You’ll Need

Medium saucepan
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Muffin tin or small plastic shot cups
Mini ladle or pourable container
Refrigerator space
Small plate for garnishing

Possible Ingredient Swaps and Add-Ons

Juices – Passionfruit, guava, or mango juice are all great swaps for pineapple or orange.
Spirits – Use spiced rum, peach schnapps, or even blue curaçao for a new twist.
Gelatin – Swap for flavored gelatin (pineapple or tropical punch) if you like extra sweetness.
Grenadine substitute – Try raspberry syrup or pomegranate juice concentrate.
Vegan alternative – Use agar-agar instead of gelatin (follow package instructions).

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bloom Your Gelatin

Pour pineapple juice and orange juice into a medium saucepan. Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin evenly over the top and let it sit for about 2 minutes. This allows it to “bloom,” or hydrate and soften.

2. Heat to Dissolve

Turn on medium heat and gently stir the mixture until the gelatin is completely dissolved—about 2-3 minutes. Do not boil, as boiling can break down the gelatin and affect how it sets.

3. Add the Alcohol

Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the coconut rum, banana liqueur, and 151-proof rum. Set aside to cool for 10 minutes—this ensures your grenadine base doesn’t mix when layering.

4. Prep Your Shot Cups

Pour about 1/2 teaspoon of grenadine into each plastic shot cup. Place the cups in a muffin tin (helps keep them steady). Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to partially set.

5. Fill with Gelatin Mixture

Once your grenadine layer is firm-ish, carefully pour the boozy gelatin mixture over it. Fill each cup to just below the rim. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.

6. Garnish and Party!

Just before serving, top each shot with a cherry, a pineapple wedge, or a dollop of whipped cream. Pop in a mini umbrella if you’re feeling festive—and why wouldn’t you be?

What to Serve with Hawaiian Hammer Jello Shots

These shots go hand-in-hand with anything grilled, fruity, or dipped in coconut. Here are a few pairing ideas:

Grilled chicken skewers with pineapple glaze
Coconut shrimp with sweet chili sauce
Tropical fruit kabobs (mango, kiwi, watermelon)
Mini poke bowls or sushi bites
Salted plantain chips and mango salsa

Or honestly? Just more jello shots. Pair these with the ultra-fun Colorful Vodka Shots for a DIY shooter bar at your next party.

Tips for Perfect Jello Shots Every Time

Cool it down before pouring – Too-hot gelatin will melt your grenadine layer.
Use a spouted measuring cup or small pitcher for neater pouring.
Get creative with flavors – Infuse your juice or spirits with herbs or citrus zest.
Set overnight for best texture – These are even better the next day.
Use silicone molds if you want to pop them out for plating.

Storage Instructions

Keep your Hawaiian Hammer Jello Shots in the fridge in a sealed container or lightly covered tray. They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. Don’t freeze them—they’ll get weird and watery.

If serving at a hot outdoor event, place them in a cooler or on a tray of ice to keep them firm and fabulous.

FAQs

Can I make these without alcohol?

Absolutely! Just replace the alcohol with additional juice or sparkling coconut water. You’ll still get tropical flavor, just no buzz.

What can I use instead of 151-proof rum?

Try dark rum, overproof spiced rum, or skip it altogether for a milder version. Keep in mind, the name “Hammer” comes from that 151 punch!

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Just use a larger saucepan and more shot cups. This recipe scales easily for larger parties.

Can I use flavored gelatin instead?

Definitely. Pineapple or tropical punch gelatin will give a stronger fruit flavor and a brighter color, just reduce the sugar elsewhere if needed.

How do I get the perfect layered look?

Let the grenadine base set for at least 30 minutes before adding the gelatin. Also, pour slowly and gently to avoid mixing the layers.

Final Thoughts: Why Hawaiian Hammer Jello Shots Deserve a Spot at Your Next Party

They’re playful. They’re potent. They’re ridiculously delicious. Whether you’re hosting a luau, ringing in summer, or just need a dessert that winks at your inner beach bum, these Hawaiian Hammer Jello Shots will have your guests raving—and possibly dancing on tables.

They hit that sweet spot between fun and fancy, with just enough punch to get the party going. And hey, you didn’t hear it from me, but these also make a pretty great Friday night treat when you need a taste of the tropics without leaving your couch.

More Tropical-Inspired Recipes to Try

If you’re loving these island-inspired flavors, you’ve got to check out:

Tequila Rose Layered Shot – Like strawberry shortcake in a glass.
Colorful Vodka Shots – A rainbow explosion of vodka fun.
Butternut Rum Lifesaver Shot – Creamy, nostalgic, and oh-so-smooth.

Nutritional Info (Per Shot – Approximate)

Calories: 65
Sugar: 5g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 0g
Alcohol content: ~0.6 oz

Note: These are estimates and will vary depending on brands and substitutions

Hawaiian Hammer Jello Shots

Author: Ethan

Print Recipe

Description

Hawaiian Hammer Jello Shots bring bold tropical flavors to your next party with layers of pineapple, orange, coconut, and banana—plus a fiery splash of 151 rum! These fruity, boozy bites are easy to make, totally fun to serve, and taste like a beach vacation in a cup. Whether you’re planning a luau or just need a mini getaway, these shots bring the sunshine.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup pineapple juice
1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup coconut rum
1/4 cup 151-proof rum (Don Q or Bacardi)
1/4 cup banana liqueur
1/4 cup grenadine
2 envelopes unflavored gelatin (or use pineapple-flavored for extra zing)

Optional garnishes: whipped cream, maraschino cherries, pineapple wedges, cocktail umbrellas

Instructions

Bloom the Gelatin – In a medium saucepan, combine the pineapple and orange juices. Sprinkle gelatin over the top and let sit for 2 minutes to bloom.
Heat Gently – Warm the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the gelatin fully dissolves. Don’t boil it!
Add Alcohol – Remove from heat and stir in coconut rum, 151 rum, and banana liqueur. Let cool slightly for about 10 minutes.
Layer with Grenadine – Pour 1/2 teaspoon of grenadine into each plastic shot cup and refrigerate for 30 minutes until it starts to set.
Pour the Gelatin – Carefully pour the boozy gelatin mixture over the grenadine layer in each cup. Fill to just below the rim.
Chill to Set – Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Garnish and Serve – Top with whipped cream, a cherry, or a mini umbrella to bring on the island vibes!

Notes

These shots are strong! If you want a lighter version, cut the 151 rum in half or replace it with more coconut rum.
Want to change up the flavors? Try mango juice, guava nectar, or passionfruit instead of pineapple or orange.
Make them non-alcoholic by swapping the booze for tropical soda or juice—great for family-friendly events!
Silicone molds work great if you want to pop them out for serving—just give them a light spray of oil first.
Store in the fridge for up to 5 days. Avoid freezing!