Wild Women’s Chocolate Covered Cherry Jello Shots: A Celebration in a Cup

I remember the first time I encountered these delightful little concoctions. It was at a particularly spirited bachelorette party years ago, the kind where laughter flowed as freely as the champagne. Our hostess, a woman who embodied the very spirit of fun and indulgence, unveiled a tray laden with these vibrant crimson gems. The playful name, “Wild Women’s Chocolate Covered Cherry Jello Shots,” set the tone perfectly, promising a treat that was both sophisticated and delightfully naughty. The shimmering crimson, crowned with a swirl of whipped cream, a glossy drizzle of chocolate, and a bright red cherry, was a visual appetizer, hinting at the burst of flavor to come. Each sip was a symphony – the tartness of cherry, the subtle sweetness of chocolate liqueur, and the cool, jiggly texture that danced on the tongue. They weren’t just a dessert or a drink; they were an experience, a moment of pure, unadulterated joy captured in a tiny cup.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 minutes (boiling water)
• Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (includes chilling)
• Servings: 36
• Yield: 36 jello shots
• Dietary Type: Customizable (see variations)

Ingredients

For these festive treats, precision in measurement ensures the perfect balance of flavor and texture. You’ll need:

• Two (1/2 ounce) boxes black cherry gelatin
• Two (1/4 ounce) envelopes unflavored gelatin (optional, but recommended for a firmer set – a standard Knox box contains four packets, so you’ll use half the box)
• Two cups boiling water
• One cup Creme de Cacao (a chocolate-flavored liqueur)
• One-half cup coffee, cold
• Thirty-six maraschino cherries, fresh, with stems if possible for an elegant presentation
• Seven ounces whipped cream (from a can for ease)
• Six ounces chocolate syrup (for drizzling)

Equipment Needed

To bring these Wild Women’s Jello Shots to life, you’ll want to have the following on hand:

• Microwave-safe measuring cup (or a saucepan and stove)
• Large bowl or pitcher with a pouring spout
• Whisk
• Thirty-six small disposable plastic or paper cups (approximately 1 to 2 ounces each)
• A sturdy container or tray that can hold the cups and fit in your refrigerator
• Can of whipped cream

Instructions

Crafting these jello shots is a straightforward process, designed for maximum enjoyment with minimal fuss. Follow these steps for a perfect batch:

1. Prepare the Boiling Water: Begin by measuring the two cups of water into a microwave-safe measuring cup. Microwave for 3 minutes, or until the water reaches a rolling boil. If you prefer not to use a microwave, you can achieve the same result by heating the water in a saucepan on the stovetop until it boils.
2. Dissolve the Gelatin: In a large container, ideally one with a pouring spout like a measuring cup or pitcher, add the two (1/2 ounce) boxes of black cherry gelatin. If you’re using the unflavored gelatin for a firmer set, add the two (1/4 ounce) envelopes now as well. Carefully pour the hot boiling water over the gelatin powders. Stir continuously with a whisk until all the gelatin is completely dissolved, ensuring no granules remain at the bottom. This step is crucial for a smooth texture.
3. Incorporate the Liqueurs: Next, measure out the one cup of Creme de Cacao and the one-half cup of cold coffee. Add these liquids to the dissolved gelatin mixture. Stir thoroughly to combine all the ingredients. The coffee subtly deepens the chocolate notes and balances the sweetness.
4. Prepare the Cups: Arrange your thirty-six small disposable plastic or paper cups (approximately 1 to 2 ounces in size) in a sturdy container or tray. This will not only keep them stable but also catch any potential spills and make transferring them to the refrigerator much easier. You can use the cardboard insert from a case of drinks, trimmed down if necessary, or a shallow baking pan.
5. Fill the Cups: Carefully pour an equal amount of the jello mixture into each of the thirty-six cups. Aim for consistency so each shot is the same size.
6. Chill to Set: Once all the cups are filled, place the container with the jello shots into the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours, or until the jello is completely set and firm. This chilling time is essential for the jello shots to achieve their signature jiggly texture.
7. Garnish and Serve: When you’re ready to serve, take the can of whipped cream and shake it well. Invert the can over each cup and spray a small, decorative dollop of whipped cream on top. Next, take your chocolate syrup and drizzle about a teaspoon over the whipped cream. Finally, top each jello shot with a maraschino cherry. If you were able to find stemmed cherries, they add a charming touch!

Expert Tips & Tricks

To elevate your jello shot game and ensure effortless execution, consider these professional insights:

• Firmness is Key: For a truly firm jello shot that holds its shape perfectly, the addition of unflavored gelatin is highly recommended. It prevents the shots from becoming too liquidy, especially if they’ll be out of the refrigerator for a bit.
• Temperature Matters: Ensure your coffee is cold before adding it to the mixture. This helps prevent the hot gelatin from prematurely setting.
• The Power of a Spout: Using a pitcher or a large measuring cup with a spout for mixing the jello ingredients makes the pouring process into the individual cups significantly cleaner and more accurate.
• Chilling Strategy: For optimal chilling and to prevent any accidental spills during transfer, it’s best to place all the filled cups into a shallow tray or container before they go into the refrigerator. This also makes them incredibly easy to transport.
• Presentation Points: Using stemmed maraschino cherries adds a touch of elegance that belies the playful nature of the jello shot. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.
• Whipping Cream Wisdom: For that perfect swirl, don’t over-spray the whipped cream. A small, delicate dollop looks more sophisticated and allows the other flavors to shine.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Wild Women’s Chocolate Covered Cherry Jello Shots are designed to be served chilled, straight from the refrigerator. Their compact size makes them ideal for parties, gatherings, or as a fun after-dinner treat.

For optimal freshness and flavor, it’s best to garnish them just before serving. The whipped cream is best enjoyed immediately after application.

Storage: Leftover, un-garnished jello shots can be stored in their original container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, their texture is best within the first 24-48 hours. Avoid storing them with the whipped cream and chocolate syrup as they can become soggy. For best results, garnish only the shots you plan to serve immediately. These jello shots are not suitable for freezing, as the freezing process will alter their texture.

Nutritional Information

While these are meant to be enjoyed as a treat, here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional content per jello shot, based on the provided ingredients. Please note that these are approximations and can vary based on specific brands and precise measurements.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	54.8 kcal	–
Calories from Fat	(not specified)	–
Total Fat	0.7 g	1%
Saturated Fat	0.4 g	1%
Cholesterol	0.9 mg	0%
Sodium	22.9 mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate	8.4 g	2%
Dietary Fiber	0.3 g	1%
Sugars	6.9 g	27%
Protein	0.3 g	0%

Note: The % Daily Value is based on a 2,000 calorie diet. The specific values for “Calories from Fat” and “Calories from Fat % Daily Value” were not precisely quantified in the original data, but the Total Fat has been provided.

Variations & Substitutions

The beauty of these jello shots lies in their adaptability. While the black cherry and chocolate combination is classic, don’t hesitate to experiment:

• For a Non-Alcoholic Version: Simply omit the Creme de Cacao and increase the cold coffee by a half cup, or substitute with an additional half cup of cold water or a complementary non-alcoholic syrup like cherry or chocolate.
• Different Gelatin Flavors: Feel free to swap the black cherry gelatin for other flavors. Strawberry, raspberry, or even a mixed berry blend would be delicious. For a truly decadent chocolate experience, try chocolate pudding mix with a hint of cherry liqueur.
• Sugar-Free Options: You can easily make these jello shots with sugar-free or low-sugar gelatin mixes and sugar-free liqueurs if available. Adjust the sweetness to your preference.
• Booze It Up: For those who prefer a stronger kick, consider adding a splash of vodka or kirsch alongside the Creme de Cacao.
• Creamy Texture: A small amount of condensed milk or evaporated milk can be added to the jello mixture for an even richer, creamier texture, though this will alter the clarity.

FAQs

Q: Can I make these jello shots ahead of time?
A: Yes, the jello mixture can be made and poured into cups up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Garnish just before serving.

Q: How do I prevent the cherries from sinking to the bottom?
A: Ensure your jello mixture is partially set before adding the cherries. You can also place the cherries on top of the partially set jello and then add a small additional layer of jello to hold them in place.

Q: What’s the best way to transport these jello shots?
A: Transport them in the container they were chilled in, ensuring it’s stable. Placing them inside a cooler with ice packs is ideal for longer journeys.

Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
A: Fresh cherries can be used, but they may not hold up as well in the jello and might bleed their color. Maraschino cherries offer a consistent sweetness and vibrant hue.

Q: How do I ensure the whipped cream dollop looks neat?
A: Practice makes perfect! Hold the can at a consistent distance from the jello shot and use a gentle, controlled spray.

Final Thoughts

These Wild Women’s Chocolate Covered Cherry Jello Shots are more than just a recipe; they are an invitation to embrace joy, to celebrate life’s sweet moments, and to let your playful spirit shine. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering, looking for a fun dessert to impress your friends, or simply treating yourself, these vibrant little delights are guaranteed to bring smiles and effervescent cheer. So gather your ingredients, unleash your inner wild woman, and create a batch of these irresistible treats. I’d love to hear about your creations and any fun twists you’ve added! Happy mixing, and more importantly, happy celebrating!