Summer means fun in the sun, no school, and a LOT of extra work for Mom. Today I’m bringing you an adults-only treat…in the form of Rainbow Jello Shots! Organizing camps, daycare, and pool days in addition to washing an endless stream of beach towels can be exhausting, and sometimes you need a totally frivolous pick-me-up. These Rainbow Jello Shots are just the ticket. And yes, you can also make a batch sans alcohol for the kids, too!

Who remembers Jello Jigglers?! As a kid, there was nothing more delightful than squishy, wiggling dessert, especially when you could pick it up with your fingers. Jello shots are such a nostalgic nod to those carefree days and a great way to let loose as an adult. They’re also customizable with very little effort; use this recipe as a spark of creativity and let your imagination run wild with combinations of Jello and liquor. 

To make these colorful little shots, we’ll be using Blue Raspberry Jello AND Blue Raspberry Vodka for a punchy flavor. I’d recommend SVEDKA Blue Raspberry; it’s bright and tangy and finishes with a citrus twist. It’s also really fun to use in other cocktails, too; you’ll definitely find ways to get creative with the leftovers! My favorite part of this recipe is the little candy rainbow strip that you’ll place on the top at the end. It’s just a little bit of whimsy that makes you feel like a kid again! 

If you’ve never made Jello shots before, you’re going to love them! The most complicated part of the whole process is remembering to buy the little condiment cups. Otherwise, making Jello shots is the same as making regular Jello; you’re just replacing some of the water with vodka. In this recipe, we’re using the Jolly Rancher Jello flavor, but any blue raspberry brand will do. Use whatever you can easily find. 

These Rainbow Jello Shots are a great surprise for summer barbeques, too; what host wouldn’t be pumped if you brought a tray? Once you’ve mastered the technique (which won’t take long), go crazy with all the flavors you can think of. It’s a great reason to buy some funky liquors to add to your cabinet, too! Get silly with candy toppings and names; I’m thinking Lemonheads, Jolly Ranchers, Lifesavers…the list goes on! This is a fun way to get the kids involved, too; just add candy to virgin Jello shots and they can join in. 

Whatever your summer looks like this year, it’s so important to make sure to do some fun things just for YOU. It’s often very easy to postpone self care until it’s more convenient, especially during a time of year when schedules are chaotic and routines are often disrupted. Make sure to be intentional about giving yourself special little treats, and you’ll enjoy the summer just as much as the kids!