This Tequila Sunrise Jello Shots recipe is my go-to when I want a playful, colorful addition to a party table that actually tastes like the cocktail it’s inspired by. I first made this for a summer rooftop gathering years ago when I wanted a portable, spill-proof way to serve cocktails. The layered look — a deep cherry bottom and a sunny orange top — always draws a crowd, and the flavor balance between the sweet grenadine, fresh orange juice, and a clean silver tequila makes each bite lively without being cloying.

I treasure this recipe because it carries memories: friends laughing as they pick up the tiny cups, the sound of clinking plastic as we toast, and the way the setting sun made the orange layer glow. Texturally, the shots are firm enough to pop out cleanly if you prefer to unmold them, but soft enough to spoon straight from the cup. They’re festive, simple to prepare, and reliably popular — even guests who claim not to like jello are curious and often surprised by how adult and cocktail-like these turns out.

Ingredients

• Cherry layer: 3 ounces cherry-flavored gelatin (one standard 3-oz packet). Choose a bright-flavored brand for the best color. The cherry mix provides a vibrant base that sets firmly so it supports the orange layer above.
• Boiling water: 1 cup hot water for each gelatin packet. Use freshly boiled water to dissolve the packets fully — this prevents grainy texture.
• Tequila: 3/4 cup silver tequila for the cherry layer and 1/2 cup for the orange layer. I used Jose Cuervo Silver; a blanco tequila with clean flavors works best so it doesn’t overpower the fruit notes.
• Grenadine: 1/4 cup high-quality grenadine syrup. Poured into the cherry mix, it deepens the color and adds that distinctive pomegranate-sweetness associated with a Tequila Sunrise.
• Orange layer: 3 ounces orange-flavored gelatin (one standard 3-oz packet). The citrus gelatin brightens the top layer and pairs well with fresh juice.
• Fresh orange juice: 1/2 cup strained fresh-squeezed navel orange juice (from 1 to 2 large oranges). Straining removes pulp for a smoother set and a clearer orange hue.
• Garnish: Maraschino cherries and small navel orange wedges. The cherries bring color contrast and nostalgia, while thin orange wedges add aroma and a fresh bite.

Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare cups and equipment: Place eighteen 2-ounce plastic jello shot cups on a rimmed tray for stability while filling and chilling. Having everything staged makes pouring faster and reduces spills. Use a bowl with a pour spout for cleaner transfers. Step 2 — Make the cherry layer: In a large mixing bowl with a pour spout, add the 3 ounces of cherry gelatin powder and 1 cup boiling water. Stir briskly until the gelatin is completely dissolved, about 1 to 2 minutes; dissolve fully to avoid grainy texture. Add 3/4 cup tequila and 1/4 cup grenadine, stirring to combine. The grenadine intensifies color and sweetness — taste and adjust only if necessary. Step 3 — Fill cups with the cherry layer: Carefully pour the cherry mixture into each 2-ounce cup until the bottom third to half is filled. Work steadily to ensure consistent levels. Tap the tray gently to remove air bubbles. Refrigerate for 2 hours or until the cherry layer is completely firm to the touch. Step 4 — Prepare the orange layer: While the cherry layer chills, combine the 3 ounces of orange gelatin powder with 1 cup boiling water in a second large spouted bowl. Stir until dissolved. Add 1/2 cup tequila and 1/2 cup fresh-squeezed, strained orange juice. Mix gently to prevent foam; let the mixture cool slightly at room temperature so it does not melt the cherry layer when poured. Step 5 — Top each cup with orange layer: When the cherry layer is fully set, carefully pour the orange mixture over the back of a spoon held just above the surface, or pour slowly down the side of each cup to avoid breaking the first layer. Fill to the rim of each cup. Refrigerate for an additional 3 to 4 hours, or until fully set. Step 6 — Garnish and serve: Once fully set, garnish each cup with a maraschino cherry and a small wedge of navel orange. Keep refrigerated until serving and remind guests these contain alcohol. Store leftovers chilled in a covered container for up to 48 hours for the best texture.

Storage Tips

Store the finished cups upright in a single layer in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap or inside an airtight container to prevent absorption of other flavors. Keep chilled until 10 to 15 minutes before serving for the best mouthfeel. For longer storage, freeze on a tray until solid then transfer to a freezer-safe container — frozen shots will keep for up to 3 months but the texture becomes slightly spongy after thawing. Discard if any off-odors develop or if condensation introduces excess moisture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer lower-alcohol options, substitute part of the tequila with additional orange juice or club soda, reducing tequila by up to half without drastically changing texture. For a non-alcoholic version, replace the tequila with extra orange juice and a touch of non-alcoholic tequila substitute or sparkling water for lift. Use raspberry or pomegranate juice for a different red base instead of grenadine, adjusting sweetness to taste. Note that sugar-free gelatin will produce a firmer, less sweet set.

Serving Suggestions

Arrange the cups on a decorative tray with small cocktail napkins and a wooden toothpick for easy garnishing. Pair them with light bites like citrus-marinated olives, cucumber canapés, or a cheese board to balance sweetness. These are ideal for pool parties, Cinco de Mayo gatherings, or a playful adult dessert table. For a fancier presentation, unmold into a shallow glass and garnish with edible flowers.

Cultural Background

The Tequila Sunrise cocktail traces its roots to 1930s Mexico and later gained popularity in the United States in the 1970s. This layered gelatin take captures the iconic visual of the drink — grenadine sinking to create a sunrise effect — while translating it into a shareable, handheld format. Using blanco tequila preserves the bright citrus character typical of the original, while grenadine introduces the sweet, rosy base that defines the sunrise look.

Seasonal Adaptations

In winter, swap fresh navel orange for blood orange juice for a deeper color and slightly tart profile; garnish with a thin blood orange wheel. For summer parties, boost the orange juice quantity slightly and use high-quality, chilled juice for a more refreshing finish. For holiday variations, add a splash of spiced liqueur into one layer or top with a tiny dusting of edible glitter for festive sparkle.

Meal Prep Tips

Make the cherry layer a day in advance and refrigerate overnight; prepare the orange layer the morning of the event for the freshest flavor. Use measuring jugs and marked cups to ensure consistent fills across all cups — this speeds up assembly. Label covered trays with the date and flavor to keep ahead of a busy event timeline. Transport on a flat, chilled surface to prevent sloshing and preserve the layered appearance.

These tiny Tequila Sunrise treats are a cheerful, nostalgic way to serve cocktail flavor with minimal fuss. They invite creativity, travel well, and are always a conversation starter — have fun with garnishes and enjoy sharing them with friends.