Let me begin by saying how genuinely grateful I am that you’re here. Whether you’re planning a themed birthday bash, hosting a girls’ night in, or just on the hunt for a standout treat to bring to your next gathering, you’ve found a recipe that’s not only show-stopping but incredibly fun to make. These Pink Pony Jello Shots are nothing short of magical—layered with pastel hues, bursting with fruity flavor, and delivering just the right touch of boozy bliss.

They’re vibrant, playful, and surprisingly smooth, thanks to whipped vodka or coconut rum that complements the candy-inspired taste. These aren’t your average jello shots. Think of them as little cups of enchantment that bring color and joy to every party platter.

Why You’ll Love These Pink Pony Jello Shots

There’s a reason these jello shots have become my go-to for parties. First off, let’s talk about the look. The layered pink and purple tones are not just eye-catching—they’re mood-setting. Whether you’re hosting a unicorn-themed birthday, a bachelorette party, or a pastel-themed picnic, these fit right in.

But the appeal goes beyond their appearance. The taste is just as charming. The bottom layer has that nostalgic berry or grape jello sweetness, while the top is a tangy, slightly creamy pink lemonade that instantly evokes childhood memories—just with an adult twist.

These shots also have a surprisingly smooth mouthfeel. The use of whipped vodka or coconut rum adds richness without overwhelming the fruity flavors. They go down easy, which is both delightful and a little dangerous in the best kind of way.

Reasons to Love This Recipe

Stunning layered aesthetic that fits any fun or feminine theme
Easy to prep in advance—perfect for entertaining
Customizable based on the liquor and flavors you prefer
Tastes like a fruity dessert with a cocktail’s kick
A huge hit with guests of all kinds

Whether you’re making them for a themed event or just looking for something to impress your friends, these little cups deliver every time.

Ingredients for Pink Pony Jello Shots

This recipe yields approximately 16 to 18 mini 2-ounce cups. It’s designed for entertaining, but you can easily scale it up or down depending on your guest list.

Bottom Layer (Purple)

1 box (3 oz) grape or berry-flavored jello
1 cup boiling water
½ cup cold water
½ cup vanilla vodka or berry rum

Top Layer (Pink Lemonade Starburst)

1 packet Pink Starburst drink mix (or another pink lemonade powder)

1 box (3 oz) unflavored gelatin
1 cup boiling water
½ cup cold water
½ cup whipped vodka or coconut rum

Tools You’ll Need

To keep things simple and clean, here are the tools you’ll want on hand:

2 medium-sized mixing bowls
Measuring cups (both liquid and dry)

Whisk or stirring spoon
Mini 2-ounce plastic cups (preferably with lids if you’re traveling with them)
A baking tray or flat pan to keep the cups stable in the fridge
A ladle or pourable measuring cup to help with even layering

Ingredient Substitutions and Additions

The great thing about jello shots is how easy they are to customize. Don’t feel locked into just one version—here’s how you can make these your own:

If you can’t find Pink Starburst drink mix, Crystal Light Pink Lemonade, Country Time, or even a combination of strawberry drink mix with a splash of lemon juice will give you a similar effect.
Not a fan of grape jello? Try black cherry, blue raspberry, or strawberry. You’ll still get a gorgeous color contrast.
Switch out vanilla vodka for marshmallow or whipped cream vodka for an even creamier flavor profile.
For a boozier punch, reduce the cold water and increase the alcohol in each layer—but be mindful that too much liquor can prevent the jello from setting.

How to Make Pink Pony Jello Shots

Here’s the step-by-step breakdown of how to build these layered beauties.

Step 1: Make the Purple Bottom Layer

Start by boiling one cup of water. Empty your box of grape or berry-flavored jello into a mixing bowl and pour the boiling water over it. Stir thoroughly until the powder is completely dissolved.

Next, add half a cup of cold water and half a cup of your choice of vanilla vodka or berry rum. Stir to combine.

Now, carefully pour the mixture into your mini cups, filling each one about halfway. Use a tray to keep the cups steady, and place them in the refrigerator to set. This should take about 1 to 1.5 hours. They need to be firm enough to support the top layer without blending.

Step 2: Prepare the Pink Lemonade Top Layer

In a clean bowl, mix one packet of Pink Starburst drink mix with the unflavored gelatin. Pour in one cup of boiling water and stir until the gelatin and powder have fully dissolved.

Add half a cup of cold water and half a cup of whipped vodka or coconut rum, mixing well. Let the mixture cool to room temperature before proceeding—this step is crucial to avoid melting the bottom layer.

Step 3: Layer It Up

Once the bottom layer is fully set and the top mixture has cooled slightly, you’re ready to pour.

Use a spoon or ladle to gently add the pink mixture on top of the purple layer. Aim to pour slowly and close to the surface of the purple jello to minimize splash and disturbance.

Return the cups to the fridge and chill for another 2 to 3 hours, or until the entire shot is firm and ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

These jello shots are already a showpiece, but you can elevate them even more with these creative serving ideas:

Top each with a dollop of whipped cream just before serving.
Add edible glitter or colorful sprinkles for extra flair.
Serve alongside mini desserts like pastel macarons, cake pops, or unicorn bark.
Present them on a cake stand or mirrored tray to catch the light and showcase the layers.

They also make a playful pairing with other unique jello shot recipes. If you want to expand your lineup, check out these flavorful ideas:

Snappin’ Sour Jello Shots: Tart, tangy, and perfect for sour candy lovers.
Mexican Candy Jello Shots: A spicy, sweet fusion inspired by the popular Mexican treat.
Extra Chile Lime Jello Shots: A bold choice for guests who like heat with their sweet.

Pro Tips for Success

Making layered jello shots is easy once you get the hang of it, but a few tips can help ensure perfect results:

Always let each layer fully set before adding the next. Impatience will result in blended, muddy layers.
Use a spoon or slow pour to add the top layer. The slower you pour, the neater your final presentation.
Be mindful of temperature. If the top layer is too hot, it can melt the set layer below.
Chill with the cups on a baking sheet. It makes transferring in and out of the fridge much easier.
For even more visual impact, tilt the cups slightly while the first layer sets to create a diagonal split between colors.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These jello shots are fantastic for prepping in advance, which is one of the reasons I return to them for every major event.

Store in the refrigerator, covered, for up to five days. Lidded cups are ideal for keeping them fresh and transport-friendly.
Avoid freezing jello shots. Alcohol prevents a proper freeze, and the texture can become gritty or broken.
Keep them cool until serving time. They’re best served chilled and firm.

General Info: What Makes a Great Jello Shot?

Jello shots are more than a party gimmick—they’re a versatile and surprisingly elegant way to serve cocktails in a small, fun format. The combination of gelatin and alcohol creates a unique mouthfeel that’s both nostalgic and novel.

The key to a perfect jello shot lies in the balance of liquid. Too much alcohol and it won’t set. Too little, and you miss the fun. Flavored spirits, creative colors, and layer play turn the simple concept into something truly impressive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these without alcohol?

Yes, you can absolutely create a non-alcoholic version of Pink Pony Jello Shots. Simply replace the alcohol in each layer with additional cold water or use fruit juice (such as white grape or lemonade) to add more depth of flavor.

What if my layers mix?

Layer separation issues are almost always caused by impatience. Make sure the bottom layer is fully set and that your top layer has cooled significantly before pouring. A warm top layer can melt the bottom and cause the layers to blur.

Can I use molds instead of cups?

You can, but it’s a bit trickier. If you choose silicone molds, lightly spray them with cooking spray for easy removal. Be gentle when popping them out, and keep in mind that presentation might suffer compared to serving them in cups.

How do I transport them?

Use a baking tray or cupcake carrier with a lid to transport your shots in their cups. If possible, keep them cold with ice packs or a cooler during travel.

Conclusion

These Pink Pony Jello Shots are the kind of party treat that makes people stop and smile. They’re colorful, flavorful, and just a bit whimsical—perfect for turning any celebration into a pastel fantasy. With two distinct layers of fruity, boozy delight, they offer a playful twist on a classic cocktail format that’s sure to steal the show.

Whether you’re throwing a themed bash or just want to elevate your next happy hour, these shots deliver big on flavor and fun. I’m kicking myself for not having shot it all sooner—it’s just that good.

Don’t stop here. Try making a complete jello shot bar by adding Snappin’ Sour Jello Shots, Mexican Candy Jello Shots, or Extra Chile Lime Jello Shots to your menu. Each one brings its own unique twist and flavor profile to the party.

Share the Love

Did you try these? I would absolutely love to see your creations. Tag your jello shots on Pinterest or Instagram using #PinkPonyShots and let’s inspire each other with more creative cocktail ideas. Your reviews and photos help others too, so don’t be shy—show off your sweet little masterpieces.

Nutritional Information (Per Shot, Approximate)

Calories: 75
Total Carbohydrates: 8 grams
Sugars: 7 grams
Alcohol: About 0.5 oz per shot
Fat: 0 grams
Protein: 1 gram (from the gelatin)

Pink Pony Jello Shots: A Pastel Party Treat That Packs a Punch

Author: Sam

Print Recipe

Description

These Pink Pony Jello Shots are layered, pastel-colored party treats with a smooth, fruity kick. The combo of berry jello and pink lemonade with whipped vodka or coconut rum creates a sweet, dangerously delicious shot that’s perfect for bachelorette parties, birthdays, or any fun-filled celebration. They’re eye-catching, customizable, and totally crowd-pleasing!

Ingredients

Scale

Bottom Layer (Purple):

1 box (3 oz) grape or berry-flavored jello
1 cup boiling water
½ cup cold water
½ cup vanilla vodka or berry rum

Top Layer (Pink Lemonade):

1 packet Pink Starburst drink mix (or any pink lemonade powder)
1 box (3 oz) unflavored gelatin
1 cup boiling water
½ cup cold water
½ cup whipped vodka or coconut rum

Instructions

Make the Bottom Layer:
In a medium bowl, dissolve the grape or berry jello in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until fully dissolved. Add ½ cup cold water and ½ cup vanilla vodka or berry rum, stirring to combine.
Pour evenly into mini 2 oz plastic cups, filling each halfway. Place on a tray and refrigerate for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until set but not frozen.
Prepare the Top Layer:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the Pink Starburst drink mix and unflavored gelatin. Add 1 cup of boiling water and stir until the gelatin is fully dissolved. Mix in ½ cup cold water and ½ cup whipped vodka or coconut rum. Let the mixture cool to room temperature—this is key to prevent melting the bottom layer.

Layer and Chill:
Once the bottom layer is firm and the pink mixture is cool, carefully spoon or pour the pink layer on top of each cup. Chill for another 2 to 3 hours, or until fully set and ready to serve.

Notes

Flavor Swap Ideas: Try black cherry or blue raspberry for the bottom layer. Strawberry drink mix also works beautifully in place of Pink Starburst.
Make it Non-Alcoholic: Skip the booze and replace it with extra cold water or juice. White grape juice adds a nice touch!
Serving Tip: Add whipped cream, sprinkles, or edible glitter just before serving for extra flair.
Storage: Keep refrigerated in lidded cups for up to 5 days. Do not freeze—alcohol prevents proper freezing and ruins the texture.

Pouring Tip: Pour slowly and gently to keep those beautiful layers clean and distinct.