Next, I mix in the freshly squeezed lime juice and white rum. The combination of the sweet strawberry mixture with the tangy lime is simply irresistible. I then add the blended strawberries, stirring everything together until smooth. Now for the fun part! I carefully pour the mixture into my shot cups, filling them about three-quarters full, leaving room for a garnish if desired. Once all the cups are filled, I place them in the refrigerator. They need at least 4 hours to set, but I prefer leaving them overnight for the best texture.
When the Jello shots are set and ready to go, I take them out and give them a quick look. The vibrant red hue of the strawberries pops against the clear base. If you’re feeling fancy, now’s the time to garnish with sliced strawberries on top. Enjoying these little beauties with friends, while lounging outside with a cool breeze, just makes my heart happy.
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this recipe three ways, and I found that using fresh strawberries really makes a world of difference compared to frozen ones. The flavor was richer and more vibrant! When blending, I recommend pulsing the strawberries a couple of times rather than blending continuously. That way, you still get those tiny bits of fruit, giving every shot a delightful texture.
Also, the type of rum you use can change the game completely. For a lighter touch, I enjoy using a white rum, but if you want a deeper flavor, try using a spiced rum. Just be careful with the amount—you want the rum to enhance, not overpower the fruity essence.
Lastly, don’t skimp on the chill time! The longer these set, the firmer and more delectable they become. I’ve made the mistake of not allowing them enough time, and the shots ended up a bit too wobbly for my liking. Trust me, patience really pays off!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I made on my first attempt was not dissolving the sugar completely before adding the Jell-O. If you don’t mix it well, you might end up with oddly sweet spots that don’t quite match the flavor profile of your shots. So, make sure that sugar is fully dissolved before moving forward. (See the next page below to continue…)