Name: Malibu Watermelon Rum Jello Shots
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h
Ingredients: 🍉 1 box (3 oz) watermelon-flavored Jello; 💧 1 cup boiling water; 🧊 1/2 cup cold water; 🥥 1/2 cup Malibu coconut rum; 🍒 Optional garnishes: whipped cream, watermelon slice, maraschino cherry, mint leaves; 🧁 2 oz plastic shot cups with lids (makes approx. 10–12 shots)

Introduction:

If summer had a flavor, it would taste just like these Malibu Watermelon Rum Jello Shots, a playful, fruity, and boozy treat that delivers the ultimate beachy vibe in a single bite. These vibrant little shooters are perfect for pool parties, BBQs, or any adult gathering that calls for a splash of fun and flavor. Blending juicy watermelon Jello with the sweet, tropical essence of Malibu rum, these shots are an irresistible combo of nostalgia and island escape. Not only are they easy to make ahead, but they also add a festive pop of color to your party table. These aren’t your college jello shots, these are the elevated, Malibu-kissed version everyone will want to copy.

Why is this recipe so popular?

🍉 Watermelon flavor = summer favorite: Sweet, juicy, and instantly refreshing.
🥥 Malibu rum adds a tropical twist: Coconut pairs perfectly with watermelon for a beachy vibe.
🎉 Party-ready and photogenic: Bright colors, fun presentation, and individually portioned.
🧊 Make ahead = stress-free hosting: Chill and serve—no last-minute fuss.
🍸 A hit with adults: A nostalgic treat with an upgraded cocktail twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

🎯 Super easy to make: Minimal ingredients and steps.
🍬 Sweet & fruity flavor profile: No harsh alcohol burn—just tropical goodness.
🧊 Perfectly chilled & refreshing: Great for warm weather events.
🍸 Customizable: Adjust strength, flavor, or presentation to your preference.
🥳 Fun for events: Ideal for birthdays, beach days, girls’ night, or holiday weekends.
🍉 Eye-catching & colorful: Aesthetic shots that look great on the table and on social media!

Ingredients:

These ingredients come together to form a powerhouse of flavor:

🍉 1 box (3 oz) watermelon-flavored Jello
💧 1 cup boiling water
🧊 1/2 cup cold water
🥥 1/2 cup Malibu coconut rum
🍒 Optional garnishes: whipped cream, watermelon slice, maraschino cherry, mint leaves
🧁 2 oz plastic shot cups with lids (makes approx. 10–12 shots)

Preparation:

Step 1: Boil the water

In a small saucepan or kettle, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. You’ll use this to dissolve the Jello thoroughly.

Step 2: Dissolve the Jello

In a medium mixing bowl, empty the watermelon Jello powder. Pour in the boiling water and whisk for about 2 minutes until completely dissolved—no grains or clumps should remain.

Step 3: Add the cold ingredients

Stir in 1/2 cup cold water and 1/2 cup Malibu coconut rum. Mix well to evenly distribute the alcohol.

Step 4: Fill the cups

Carefully pour the Jello mixture into 2 oz plastic cups, filling each about 3/4 full to leave room for garnishes (if desired). A spouted measuring cup makes this easier.

Step 5: Chill until set

Place the filled cups on a tray or baking sheet for stability. Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2–4 hours or until fully set.

Step 6: Garnish and serve

Just before serving, garnish with a squirt of whipped cream, a small watermelon wedge, cherry, or mint leaf if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy responsibly!

Variation:

🍓 Switch the flavor: Use strawberry, cherry, or tropical punch Jello for a different fruity profile.
🍍 Add pineapple juice: Substitute part of the cold water for pineapple juice for a tangy punch.
🌶️ Spicy version: Add a dash of chili-lime seasoning (Tajín) for a bold, spicy-sweet twist.
🥭 Malibu Mango: Try Malibu’s flavored versions like Mango or Passion Fruit for added dimension.
❄️ Layer it: Create layers with different flavored Jello for a striped shot effect.
🥂 Mocktail option: Replace the rum with coconut water or a flavored soda for a fun alcohol-free version.

COOKING Note:

These jello shots are very forgiving but follow these key tips:

🌡️ Do NOT add alcohol to boiling water—it should always go in after the Jello is dissolved.
🍸 Alcohol above 13–15% ABV can prevent Jello from setting, so don’t increase the rum too much.
🧊 Let shots chill completely for a clean, firm texture. Avoid the freezer—it changes the consistency.

Serving Suggestions:

🏖️ Poolside party: Serve chilled from an ice bucket or cooler with colorful spoons or cocktail picks.
🎨 Color theme: Coordinate with pink or tropical-themed party decor.
🍓 Garnish bar: Offer various toppings for a fun DIY shot station.
🎂 Birthday treat: Serve alongside cupcakes or cake pops for a grown-up dessert table.
🍸 Shot board: Present them on a serving tray with lime wedges, mint sprigs, and cocktail umbrellas.

Tips:

🧁 Use a tray: Transport cups on a tray to avoid spills during chilling.
🍍 Boost flavor: Add a splash of fruit juice to replace part of the cold water.
❄️ Store with lids: Keeps them fresh and stackable in the fridge.
📦 Make ahead: Best enjoyed within 3–4 days but can last up to 5 days chilled.
⚖️ Measure carefully: Don’t eyeball the alcohol or water—it affects the texture.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

0 minutes

Total Time:

4 hours (including chill time)

Nutritional Information (per shot, estimated):

Calories: 60 kcal
Protein: 1 g
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Sugar: 7 g
Fat: 0 g
Sodium: 60 mg
Alcohol content: Approx. 5–7% ABV per shot

FAQs:

Q: Can I double the alcohol?
A: You can increase it slightly, but more than 1/2 cup Malibu may prevent proper setting. For stronger shots, use less water, but know they may not firm up as well.

Q: Do I have to use watermelon Jello?
A: No! Strawberry, raspberry, cherry, or lime all pair well with Malibu coconut rum.

Q: How long do these last?
A: They’re best within 3–4 days, but can last up to 5 days if stored properly with lids in the fridge.

Q: Can I make them without alcohol?
A: Yes! Just replace the Malibu with coconut water or lemon-lime soda for a delicious mocktail version.

Q: Do I need to grease the cups?
A: Nope—no need to grease. These should pop out easily or can be eaten right from the cup.

Conclusion:

Malibu Watermelon Rum Jello Shots are a bite-sized taste of paradise. With juicy watermelon flavor and tropical coconut notes from Malibu rum, they’re an instant hit for summer parties, celebrations, or anytime you want to liven up your event with something sweet and spirited. Whether you’re hosting a rooftop soirée, bringing the fun to a BBQ, or just want to surprise your friends with a festive treat, these shots are low-effort, high-reward, and impossible not to love. Cool, colorful, and infused with vacation vibes, what’s not to love?

So grab a tray, pop them in the fridge, and get ready to be everyone’s favorite party host.