Halloween Eyeball Jello Shots are a fun and spooky treat that’s perfect for any Halloween party. These little jello cups look like creepy eyeballs, with gelatin that wobbles and fake pupils that give them a spooky, fun vibe. They’re made with vibrant colors and just the right amount of sweetness and buzz to keep the party going.
I love making these because they always get a big reaction from friends. They’re easy to prepare but look super cool on the table. I usually use small clear cups to show off the “eyeball” effect, and I like to add a little candy detail to make them look extra creepy. Making them is a great way to get into the Halloween spirit and add some playful fun to the night.
When it’s time to serve, I like chilling them well ahead of time so they’re perfectly firm but still jiggle as people pick them up. They’re great for adults who want a party snack that’s a little different and lots of fun. Plus, watching everyone try to figure out which flavor is which always makes for some good laughs.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Flavored Gelatin: Cherry or strawberry flavors work great here. If you want a different look or flavor, try raspberry or watermelon. For a non-alcoholic version, just use fruit juice instead of vodka.
Unflavored Gelatin: This is what gives the creamy white layer its firmness without adding flavor. Agar powder can work for a vegetarian option, but the texture will be a bit different.
Sweetened Condensed Milk or Cream: This creates the opaque white “sclera” of the eyeball. You can use coconut milk or a dairy-free creamer if needed for allergies or preferences.
Vodka: Adds the alcohol punch. You can swap this for flavored vodka or omit it for a kid-friendly version.
Black Olives or Edible Ink Pens: Olives make an easy, tasty pupil, but if you want a cleaner look, edible icing pens are perfect for drawing iris details.
How Do You Get the Best Eye Shape and Clear Layers?
The eyeball shape depends on using round silicone molds, ideally half-spheres that you can fill in two steps. Here’s how to get clear, nice layers:
- Chill the red gelatin half first until fully firm before adding the white layer.
- Pour the white gelatin gently on top of the red half to avoid mixing colors.
- Allow plenty of time for the white layer to set—overnight is best for firmness.
- When unmolding, gently press the mold edges to pop the eyeballs out cleanly without breaking.
Patience is key here! Taking your time lets each layer set perfectly, giving you those eye-catching clear halves and crisp, spooky details.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Half-sphere silicone molds – perfect for shaping your gelatin into round eyeballs easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the right amount of water, vodka, and gelatin.
- Mixing bowls – for dissolving and mixing different gelatin layers without mess.
- Small whisk or spoon – helps dissolve gelatin evenly and mix layers smoothly.
- Edible icing pens or fine paintbrush – great for drawing iris details if you don’t want to use olive slices.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap vodka for flavored vodka like citrus or berry to add a fun twist to the taste.
- Use blue or green flavored gelatin for the eyeball halves instead of red for a cooler look.
- Add small gummy worms inside the gelatin for a gross, fun surprise when eaten.
- Try coconut milk instead of cream for a subtle tropical flavor in the white layer.
Halloween Eyeball Jello Shots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Gelatin Layers:
- 1 package (3 oz) red flavored gelatin (e.g., cherry or strawberry)
- 1 package (3 oz) unflavored gelatin
- 1/2 cup boiling water, divided
- 1/2 cup cold water, divided
- 1/4 cup vodka (or more depending on desired strength)
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk or cream (for white eyeball base)
Decorations:
- Small round edible eye decorations or blue/black edible icing pens
- 1/4 cup black olives (optional, for the pupil)
- Small half-sphere silicone molds or spherical molds (approx. 1.5 inch diameter)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prepare the jello shots in about 15 minutes of active work. You’ll need to chill them twice: 1-2 hours for the red layer, then 2-3 hours or overnight for the white layer. Plan for at least 3-5 hours total chill time for best results.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Red Gelatin Eyeballs:
In a bowl, dissolve the red flavored gelatin in 1/4 cup boiling water, stirring well until it’s fully dissolved. Add 1/4 cup cold water and 1/8 cup vodka, then stir to combine. Pour this mixture carefully into half of the molds to create the red layer of the eyeballs. Fill them about halfway and place the molds in the fridge to chill and set for 1-2 hours.
2. Prepare White Gelatin Eyeball Base:
In a separate bowl, dissolve the unflavored gelatin in 1/4 cup boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved. Add 1/4 cup cold water, 1/8 cup vodka, and the sweetened condensed milk or cream to create a white, opaque mixture. Once the red gelatin has set, gently pour this white mixture over the red layer in each mold, filling all the way to form complete spheres. Chill again for 2-3 hours or overnight so the white layer firms up completely.
3. Create Eyeball Pupils:
If you want to use black olives, slice them into small circles to mimic pupils and press one onto the white layer of each eyeball. Alternatively, use black edible icing pens to draw pupils on the white gelatin after unmolding. You can also add iris details with blue or black edible markers for an extra spooky touch.
4. Unmold and Serve:
Carefully pop the jello eyeballs out of the molds onto a serving dish. Arrange them to look like creepy eyeballs ready for your Halloween party. Keep the shots refrigerated until serving, and enjoy responsibly!
Can I Make These Without Alcohol?
Yes! Simply replace the vodka with an equal amount of cold water or flavored juice to keep the flavor while making them kid-friendly or alcohol-free.
How Do I Store Leftover Jello Shots?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’ll stay firm and tasty—just give them a gentle stir if they start to weep.
Can I Use Other Flavored Gelatins?
Definitely! You can swap the red gelatin for any flavor or color you like. Just keep in mind that lighter colors might make it harder to see the “eyeball” effect clearly.
What’s the Best Way to Unmold the Jello Shots?
Gently press the edges of the silicone molds and slightly twist to release the eyeballs. If they stick, briefly dip the bottom of the mold in warm water for a few seconds, but avoid melting the gelatin.
