If you’re looking for a party treat that combines vibrant tropical flavors with a playful boozy twist, Malibu Watermelon Rum Jello Shots are here to steal the show! These easy-to-make, sweet, and colorful shots are perfect for gatherings, whether it’s a backyard barbecue, summer celebration, or a themed party. With their punchy watermelon flavor and a hint of coconut from the rum, these jello shots promise to add a burst of fun to your festivities. And if you love recipes like this one, why not subscribe to my email list? I’ll send unique, easy-to-make crowd-pleasers like this directly to your inbox. Now, let’s dive into why you’ll adore this recipe and how to bring it to life!

Why You’ll Love These Malibu Watermelon Rum Jello Shots

1. Packed with Flavor

Think juicy watermelon, sweet tropical notes, and a hint of coconut mingling together in one delightful bite. These shots taste like summer in a cup!

2. Eye-Catching Presentation

Bright pink jello topped with adorable gummy watermelon candies makes these a feast for the eyes as much as for the palate. Guests will be reaching for their phones to snap a pic before tasting them.

3. Simple to Make

With just four ingredients and a straightforward process, these jello shots are beginner-friendly yet feel like a pro-level party hack.

4. Customizable Fun

From experimenting with other flavored gelatins to swapping out garnishes, there are endless ways to tweak these jello shots to fit your theme or preferences.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients:

1.5 cups water
1 package (3.89 oz) watermelon-flavored gelatin mix
1.5 cups Malibu Watermelon Rum
Gummy watermelon candies (optional, for garnish)

Tools:

Saucepan (for boiling water)
Mixing bowl
Whisk or spoon (for stirring)
Plastic condiment cups (2 oz size works great!)
Tray (to hold the cups while they set)

How to Make Malibu Watermelon Rum Jello Shots

1. Prepare the Gelatin Mixture

Start by boiling 1.5 cups of water. Once the water is bubbling hot, pour it over the watermelon gelatin powder in a mixing bowl. Stir thoroughly until the gelatin has completely dissolved—this step is crucial for that silky-smooth texture.

2. Add the Malibu Watermelon Rum

Let the gelatin mixture cool for about 5 minutes (to prevent the alcohol from burning off). Then, pour in 1.5 cups of Malibu Watermelon Rum. Stir until everything is evenly combined.

3. Pour into Cups

Set out your plastic condiment cups on a tray to make transporting them easier. Carefully pour the gelatin mixture into the cups, filling each about three-quarters of the way full.

4. Chill

Place the tray in your refrigerator and let the jello shots chill for at least 2 hours. You’ll know they’re ready when the jello has set and is firm to the touch.

5. Garnish and Serve

Right before serving, top each jello shot with a gummy watermelon candy for an extra pop of fun and flavor. If gummies aren’t your thing, you can also garnish with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of edible glitter to match your party vibes.

Tips for Perfect Jello Shots

Don’t Skip Cooling the Gelatin: Adding alcohol to gelatin that’s too hot can reduce its potency. Let it cool slightly before mixing in the rum.
Stick to the Ratios: Too much alcohol can keep the jello from setting properly. The 1:1 water-to-rum ratio ensures the shots stay firm while still packing a boozy punch.
Make Ahead: Jello shots can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making them a convenient party prep option. Just add the garnish right before serving for maximum freshness.

What to Serve with Malibu Watermelon Rum Jello Shots

These jello shots are festive on their own, but pairing them with complementary treats will elevate your party spread. Consider these ideas:

Tropical Fruit Platter: Pineapple, mango, and kiwi slices pair beautifully with the watermelon-coconut vibe.
Mini Sliders: Savory snacks like sliders or mini tacos balance out the sweetness of the jello shots.
Cocktail Pairing: Serve alongside a refreshing watermelon mojito or piña colada for a complete tropical experience.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Switch Up the Rum: While Malibu Watermelon Rum is the star of this recipe, you can substitute it with classic Malibu Coconut Rum or even a fruit-flavored vodka for a twist.
Experiment with Gelatin Flavors: Lime, strawberry, or even tropical punch gelatin would be delicious alternatives.
Alcohol-Free Version: For a kid-friendly or sober-friendly option, replace the rum with watermelon juice or coconut water.

FAQs About Malibu Watermelon Rum Jello Shots

Q: Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd? Absolutely! Just double all the ingredients and use a larger tray to hold the cups.
Q: How long do jello shots take to set? They typically take around 2-4 hours to fully set in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I make these non-alcoholic? Yes! Substitute the rum with an equal amount of cold water or a complementary juice like watermelon or coconut.

Wrapping It All Up

These Malibu Watermelon Rum Jello Shots are the ultimate way to infuse fun and flavor into your next party. They’re easy to make, visually stunning, and oh-so-delicious. Whether you’re hosting a summer bash or simply looking to wow your friends, these boozy bites won’t disappoint. Craving more party-perfect recipes? Check out some of my other cocktail-inspired treats like Piña Colada Popsicles or Tropical Fruit Sangria. Don’t forget to pin this recipe and share your creations with me—I’d love to see your versions!

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Shot)

Calories: 90
Carbs: 9g
Sugars: 8g
Alcohol: 10g

Enjoy responsibly and let the tropical vibes flow! Cheers!