About Glow in the Dark Jello Shots
The 90’s teen in me is so excited to share this recipe with you guys, because, well… c’mon, it’s glow in the dark jello shots we’re talking about there!
Because if you didn’t notice, they glow. In the dark.
And if you’re one of my fellow thirty-somethings, I’m sure you’re just as hyped as I am for these.
Because no matter how old (or young!) we are, everything neon that glows will always be cool, amirite?
How do these glow in the dark?
These spooky shots glow in the dark for two reasons:
- Tonic water is one of the ingredients.
- A blacklight is shined on them.
So you need a black light for these shots to glow?
Yes, you do need a black light. This is a simple recipe takes advantage of the unique chemicals in tonic water, which glows under a black light. These shots will not glow in the dark on their own.
Why does tonic water glow under a black light?
Tonic water has a small amount of a chemical called quinine dissolved into it. When illuminated under a black light, quinine will glow a brilliant, bright blue color.
You can use tonic water in other recipes to create the same effect, but be careful; tonic water has a strong taste that needs to be balanced with enough sweetness. Tonic water will also glow best when used in translucent treats (which makes it ideal for drinks and jello). If you used tonic water in a food that was thick or opaque (like frosting, baking, etc) it will not glow. I know, I’ve tried it, and was bummed with the results.
Notes & tips for glow in the dark jello shots
- You can use any color or flavor for these jello shots, but from what I hear, green and blue jello glow the brightest under a black light.
- Tonic water is what makes these jello shots glow, and if you’ve had tonic water, you know the taste is… harsh. The jello has sugar and helps take the edge off, but it’s not enough on its own. You’ll want to make sure you also pick a sweet rum, vodka, or liqueur to help cover up the bite of the tonic water. When making these jello shots, I used malibu rum, but you could also use midori, blue curacao, or another sweet flavored drink. Just be sure that it’s clear in color or is a close match to the color of the jello you’re using.
More fun Halloween recipes
How to make glow in the dark jello shots
This next part is only a photo tutorial of the recipe steps. If you’re looking for the full recipe measurements and instructions, scroll down to Recipe Details.
Step 1 – Add tonic water to a saucepan, then bring to a boil.
Step 2 – Add powdered jello into a large mixing bowl, then pour in boiling tonic water. Whisk them together until the jello is dissolved.
Step 3 – Pour in the sweet alcohol of your choice, then whisk again to combine.
Step 4 – Pour jello into your chosen cups, filling about 3/4 or 4/5 full. Once ready, transfer the jello shots to the refrigerator to set.
Step 5 – Let chill.
Step 6 – Shine a black light, shoot, and enjoy!
Recipe Details
Glow in the Dark Jello Shots
Electrify your next party with these glow in the dark jello shots! You only need 3 ingredients and they can be spiked with any sweet rum or vodka.
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a small saucepan over medium heat, bring tonic water to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat.
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In a large bowl, add powdered jello mix and pour in boiled tonic water. whisk quickly until jello is dissolved.
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Add chilled rum (or vodka) to jello mix and whisk quickly until combined.
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Pour jello into shot cups, smoothing or spooning out any bubbles that form on top. Place jello shots in the refrigerator and let set for at least 4-6 hours.
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Shoot and enjoy!
What a fun and creative treat for Halloween! You always have the best ideas for this time of year (and the rest of the year)! 🙂
Could I ask where’d you get the skull shot glasses? They look amazing.
Hey Veera! I actually picked them up at BevMo 😀 You can find them online here: http://www.bevmo.com/kikkerland-skull-shot-set-4–set-of-4-.html
Do they glow in the dark or do they only glow under black light? That photo looks like black light, and not glow in the dark as the title says.
It says shine a black light and shoot as one of the last items so I assume it only works with a black light which is unfortunate.
I too would like to know if they only glow under black light?
Any suggestion for non alcoholic version? What to add to take the edge off from the tonic water?
Thanks for this fun and awesome-looking recipe. Any suggestions for a nonalcoholic version? Thanks again and I can’t wait to try this. 🙂
My thought in making non alcoholic version wb possiblyusing a clearish type juice. Maybe pineapple, white grape juice? Just a guess. You’ll need to do a trial run!
Mine didn’t set at all. I used tonic and fruit juice cuz my kids don’t drink alcohol. Any tips?
Followed recipe to the T, got black light did not glow in dark at all