Ingredients
Espresso Layer
- 2 (0.25 ounce) envelopes unflavored gelatin
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 cup hot brewed espresso (or very strong coffee)
- 1/2 cup Kahlúa (coffee liqueur)
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 2 tablespoons simple syrup (optional, for a sweeter shot)
Cream Foam Layer
- 1 (0.25 ounce) envelope unflavored gelatin
- 1 cup half & half
- 2 tablespoons Kahlúa (coffee liqueur)
- 1 tablespoon simple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Espresso beans (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Gelatin for Espresso Layer: Sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water in a medium saucepan and let it stand for 5 minutes to bloom.
- Dissolve Gelatin: Heat the gelatin mixture over low heat while stirring constantly until fully dissolved, approximately 2 minutes. Avoid boiling to preserve gelatin properties.
- Add Espresso and Spirits: Remove from heat and whisk in hot brewed espresso, Kahlúa, vodka, and simple syrup until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
- Pour Espresso Layer: Evenly divide the espresso gelatin mixture among fifteen 2-ounce plastic shot cups, filling each about three-quarters full.
- Chill Espresso Layer: Refrigerate for 2 hours or until the espresso layer is mostly set but not fully firm.
- Prepare Gelatin for Cream Layer: Pour half & half into a small saucepan and sprinkle gelatin evenly over the surface. Allow it to stand for 5 minutes to bloom.
- Dissolve Gelatin in Cream: Whisk the gelatin and half & half mixture well, then heat over low heat stirring constantly until gelatin has fully dissolved. Avoid boiling.
- Add Flavorings: Remove from heat and whisk in Kahlúa, simple syrup, and vanilla extract. Let cool for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mixture is no longer warm.
- Top Espresso Layer: Carefully spoon or pour a thin layer of the cream gelatin mixture over the set espresso layer in each shot cup.
- Final Chill: Refrigerate the assembled shots for at least 2 more hours or until the cream layer is fully set.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish each jello shot with an espresso bean for an elegant finishing touch before serving.
Notes
- For a stronger coffee flavor, use espresso instead of brewed coffee.
- Adjust simple syrup amount to taste for desired sweetness level.
- Ensure gelatin does not boil during heating as it will lose setting ability.
- Plastic shot cups make serving and eating these jello shots easy and neat.
- These jello shots are best served chilled and consumed within 24 hours for optimal texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Refrigerating (Setting Gelatin)
- Cuisine: American