Easiest Four Loko Jello Shots Recipe

If you’re looking for a fun new party snack to bring to your next get together, look no further than four loko jello shots.

As a long-time fan of both jello shots and Four Loko, I was eager to try this buzzworthy combination for myself. The notion of packing the punch of an entire can of Four Loko into bite-sized jello cubes seemed like a recipe for fun and chaos.

Four Loko Cherry Burst Jello Shots Recipe

This recipe is a fun and festive twist on classic jello shots, perfect for a party or get-together. It combines the sweet and tart flavor of cherry Starburst candies with the energy boost of Four Loko for a boozy treat.

Ingredients

• 1 package of Starburst Cherry Gelatin Jello
• 2 cups boiling water
• 2 cups cold water
• 1 can (24 oz) Four Loko (cherry or original flavor)

Starburst Cherry Gelatin Jello:

This is the main flavoring ingredient for the jello shots. It provides the cherry flavor and the gelatin base for the jiggly texture.

Substitute: You can substitute any flavored gelatin mix you prefer. If you can’t find cherry flavored gelatin, other fruity flavors like strawberry, raspberry, or watermelon would also work well.

Four Loko (cherry or original flavor):

Four Loko is a caffeinated alcoholic beverage. It provides the alcohol content and additional cherry flavor (if using the cherry flavored Four Loko) for these jello shots.

Substitute: You can substitute another flavored malt beverage with similar alcohol content for the Four Loko. Just be sure to choose a flavor that would complement the cherry gelatin. You could also use vodka for a more neutral alcohol base, but you might want to add a bit of extra cherry flavoring to compensate.

Equipment Needed

• Large bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Pot or kettle to boil water
• Spoon
• 20 small plastic cups (2 oz capacity)
• Spoons for filling the cups (20 or however many cups you use)
• Plastic wrap or lids for the cups

Steps to make 4 Loko Jello shots

Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to prepare the Four Loko Cherry Burst Jello Shots at home:

Prepare the gelatin:

In a large bowl, whisk together the cherry gelatin powder. Slowly pour in the boiling water, whisking constantly until the powder is completely dissolved. The mixture should be clear and smooth.

Mix in the liquids:

The gelatin mixture will be hot after adding the boiling water. Let it cool slightly for a minute or two before adding the next ingredients. This is important to avoid “cooking” the alcohol in the Four Loko, which can affect its taste. Pour in the cold water and Four Loko. Use a spoon or whisk to gently stir the mixture until everything is well combined. Avoid vigorous stirring, as this can incorporate air bubbles into the jello, making it cloudy.

Assemble the jello shots:

If using, lightly coat the inside of each cup with cooking spray to make them easier to unmold.

 If you want the jello shots to be easier to remove from the cups, lightly coat the inside of each cup with cooking spray or grease them with a thin layer of vegetable oil or butter.

Evenly distribute the jello mixture among the prepared cups. You can use a ladle or spoon to carefully fill each cup.

Refrigerate and set:

Cover the cups with plastic wrap or lids to prevent them from drying out or absorbing fridge odors. Refrigerate the jello shots for at least 3 hours, or until they are completely set and firm.

For a quicker chill, place the jello shots towards the back of the fridge where it’s coldest.

Serve and enjoy! Once set, remove the jello shots from the refrigerator and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Four Loko Cherry Burst Jello Shots:

If you’re a cherry fanatic, using cherry-flavored Four Loko intensifies the cherry taste throughout the jello shots. The additional cherry flavor complements the cherry gelatin perfectly.

Experiment with other flavors of Four loko: 

While cherry-flavored Four Loko pairs well, don’t be afraid to experiment with other flavors! Try using original Four Loko for a more neutral base, or consider a citrus flavor like lemon or grapefruit Four Loko for a tangy twist. You can even get creative and use a different flavored gelatin, like orange or lime, to match the Four Loko flavor you choose.

Gelatin Substitutions for Variety:

Explore different gelatin flavors: The beauty of this recipe is the versatility! If you can’t find cherry gelatin, no worries. There are endless possibilities when it comes to flavored gelatin. Consider using strawberry, raspberry, watermelon, or even tropical fruit flavored gelatin for a fun and vibrant twist.

Pro-tip: Get creative with layering! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try layering different flavored gelatin mixtures in the cups for a visually stunning and layered flavor experience.

Scaling the Recipe and Setting Time:

Adjusting for cup size: The recipe is written for 2 oz cups, which is a standard size for jello shots. If you only have larger or smaller cups, don’t fret! You can still use them, just be mindful of adjusting the recipe and setting time accordingly.

Less is more: When using larger cups, remember, you’ll need less of the jello mixture per cup. Fill the cups only ¾ of the way full to avoid overflow when the jello sets.

Setting time for different sizes: Larger jello shots will take longer to set than smaller ones. Plan accordingly and factor in extra chilling time if using larger cups.

Festive Garnishes for the Finishing Touch:

Classic cherry on top: A simple yet elegant garnish is a maraschino cherry placed on top of each jello shot. It adds a pop of red color and complements the cherry flavor.

Sparkling with sanding sugar: For a touch of sparkle and sweetness, rim the cups with sanding sugar before pouring the jello mixture. This adds a nice textural contrast and a touch of visual flair.

Get creative with garnishes: There are endless possibilities when it comes to garnishing! Consider using other candy pieces like gummy worms or chopped fruit slices. You could even use festive sprinkles or cookie crumbles for a fun and colorful touch.

Blooming the gelatin: 

For a smoother texture, you can try “blooming” the gelatin before adding the boiling water. Sprinkle the gelatin powder over a small amount of cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes. This allows the gelatin to soften and hydrate, making it easier to dissolve in the hot water without any lumps.

Using leftover jello mixture: 

If you have leftover jello mixture after filling the cups, don’t toss it out! Pour it into a small mold or container and refrigerate it to set. You’ll have a little extra jello treat to enjoy later.

Variations and Twists on this Four Loko Jello Shots Recipe

I’m always on the lookout for creative twists I can put on party classics like Jell-O shots. There’s endless potential to get innovative and put my own distinctive spin on Four Loko Jell-O shots.

Fruity Fusion:

Tropical Paradise: Instead of cherry gelatin, use a tropical fruit flavored gelatin mix like pineapple, orange, or passion fruit. Pair it with original Four Loko or a citrus flavored Four Loko for a refreshing and tropical taste. Garnish with a wedge of pineapple or orange for a tropical vibe.

Berry Blast: Opt for a mixed berry flavored gelatin and combine it with original or raspberry flavored Four Loko. Top with fresh blueberries or raspberries for an extra burst of berry flavor.

If you’re looking for more fruity inspiration, check out our recipe of the Peach Tea Shot.

Creamy Delights:

Creamy Coconut: For a decadent twist, use coconut flavored gelatin and substitute half of the cold water with coconut cream or cream of coconut. Use original Four Loko and garnish with a toasted coconut shaving for a tropical and creamy experience.

Boozy Cheesecake: Combine plain gelatin with cream cheese, milk, and a touch of vanilla extract to create a cheesecake-flavored base. For the alcohol, you can use vanilla-flavored vodka or Baileys Irish Cream instead of Four Loko. Top with a graham cracker crumb crust for a complete cheesecake experience in a shot!

If you are a creamy cocktails lover, you need to try Sombrero Cocktail and Iron Butterfly Cocktail recipes.

Sour Power:

Sour Patch Kids Surprise: Use lime or green apple flavored gelatin and combine it with original Four Loko for a tart and tangy base. Garnish with a sour candy like a Sour Patch Kid for a sweet and sour flavor combination.

Spicy Fusion:

Spicy Watermelon Margarita: Level up your jello shots with a spicy kick! Use watermelon flavored gelatin and muddle some fresh jalapenos with the cold water before adding it to the mixture.

Use tequila or a jalapeno-infused vodka instead of Four Loko for an extra spicy kick. Balance the heat with a lime wedge garnish. I love spicing up my cocktails sometimes, and my favorite spicy cocktails are Rusa drink ad spicy passion fruit margarita.

Pina Colada Paradise:

Use Four Loko Pina Colada flavor combined with coconut or pineapple gelatin for a tropical escape. Add a splash of rum or coconut rum to the Jello mixture to enhance the cocktail flavor. Garnish each shot with a pineapple wedge and a maraschino cherry for a taste of the islands.

Non-Alcoholic Option:

For a fun and festive mocktail version: Simply omit the Four Loko and substitute it with additional cold water or fruit juice. This is a great option for those who don’t consume alcohol or for a kid-friendly version of the recipe.

How to properly store these Four Loko Jello Shots

Proper storage of Four Loko Jello Shots is essential to maintain their freshness, flavor, and safety. Follow these guidelines to store your Jello shots correctly:

Refrigeration:

Store the prepared Four Loko Jello Shots in the refrigerator to keep them chilled and prevent spoilage. Place the shot cups or molds on a flat surface inside the refrigerator to ensure even cooling.

Covered:

Cover the Jello shot cups or molds with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to protect them from absorbing odors or flavors from other foods in the refrigerator.

Alternatively, you can use airtight containers with lids to seal the shots and prevent any spills or contamination.

Separate Layers:

If storing multiple layers or flavors of Jello shots, consider separating them with a layer of parchment paper or plastic wrap to prevent them from sticking together.

This helps maintain the integrity of each layer and makes it easier to serve individual shots without mixing flavors.

Label the container or wrap with the date of preparation to track their freshness. Additionally, you can label the flavors of the Jello shots to easily identify them when serving.

Consumption Timeframe:

Consume the Four Loko Jello Shots within 3-5 days of preparation to ensure they remain fresh and safe to consume. Avoid storing them for extended periods, as the texture and flavor may degrade over time.

Temperature Control:

Ensure that your refrigerator is set to a proper temperature (ideally below 40°F or 4°C) to keep the Jello shots safe from bacterial growth.

Avoid leaving the shots at room temperature for extended periods, especially in warm environments, as this can increase the risk of spoilage.

Tips for Longer Storage (Not Recommended):

Freezing: Technically, you can freeze leftover jello shots, but it’s not recommended. Freezing can affect the texture of the gelatin, making it become watery or rubbery upon thawing.

If you do freeze: If you absolutely must freeze leftover jello shots, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. However, be aware that the quality may be compromised when thawed. It’s always best to enjoy these jello shots fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Four Loko Jello Shots Nutrition Facts

While the exact nutritional content can vary depending on the type of Four Loko and gelatin mix used, these jello shots are generally high in sugar and calories due to the combined ingredients.

Estimated Typical Nutritional Information per Serving:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	150-200
Total Fat	0g
Saturated Fat	0g
Cholesterol	0mg
Sodium	30-40mg
Total Carbohydrates	30-40g
Sugars	25-35g
Protein	1g
Alcohol Content	4-5% ABV

Based on a typical 24 oz can of Four Loko (around 8% ABV) used in this recipe, each jello shot serving (2 oz) can contain approximately 4-5% ABV.

In the United States, a standard drink typically contains about 0.6 fluid ounces or 14 grams of pure alcohol. This recipe typically yields around 20 small (2 oz) jello shots. The entire 24 oz can contains: 24 oz x 10% ABV = 2.4 oz of pure alcohol.

Divided among 20 jello shots, this translates to approximately 2.4 oz / 20 servings = 0.12 oz of alcohol per jello shot.

This is a rough estimate, and the actual alcohol content per jello shot can vary depending on the specific Four Loko used and the number of servings you get from the recipe.

Other Dietary Considerations

While Four Loko Jello Shots offer a fun and boozy twist on a classic dessert, they might not be suitable for everyone’s dietary needs. Here’s a breakdown of some key considerations:

Gluten:

Four Loko: The good news is that Four Loko itself is generally considered gluten-free according to the manufacturer’s information. However, always double-check the ingredients list on the specific can you purchase, as some variations might contain gluten-containing ingredients.

Gelatin: Plain gelatin is typically derived from collagen, which comes from animal sources like bones and skin. This means it’s not suitable for vegans. However, there are vegetarian and vegan gelatin alternatives made from seaweed or agar agar.

Vegan:

As mentioned above, traditional gelatin is not vegan. If you’re following a vegan diet, you’ll need to use a vegan gelatin alternative like agar agar to make these jello shots vegan-friendly.

Some Four Loko varieties might contain dairy-derived ingredients like whey or casein. Double-check the ingredients list on the can you choose to ensure it’s vegan-friendly.

Keto:

High Sugar Content: A significant concern for a ketogenic diet (keto) is the high sugar content in both Four Loko and most flavored gelatin mixes. Sugars are quickly converted to blood sugar in the body, which can knock you out of ketosis, the metabolic state where your body burns fat for energy.

Limited Keto-Friendly Options: While some sugar-free Four Loko varieties exist and sugar-free gelatin mixes are available, creating a truly keto-friendly version of this recipe would require careful modification and finding suitable sugar substitutes.

FAQS

Can I use a different type of alcohol besides Four Loko?

Yes! You can substitute Four Loko with another flavored malt beverage or even vodka for a more neutral base. Just be sure to choose something that complements the flavor of the gelatin you’re using, and adjust the recipe accordingly based on the alcohol content of your chosen substitute.

Are these jello shots strong?

The strength of these jello shots depends on the specific Four Loko used and the number of servings you get from the recipe. Generally, due to the inclusion of Four Loko, they will likely have a higher alcohol content than a typical jello shot. Consume them responsibly and be mindful of your tolerance.

How can I make these Jello shots less potent?

To reduce the alcohol content in these Jello shots, you can dilute the Four Loko with additional water or use less Four Loko in the recipe. Adjust the ratio of alcohol to water to suit your preference.

Can I make these jello shots ahead of time?

Absolutely! These jello shots are perfect for making in advance for a party or gathering. The gelatin mixture sets relatively quickly, and the finished jello shots can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure they are in an airtight container to prevent drying out or absorbing fridge odors.