Christmas Jello Balls are a fun and festive treat perfect for adding a splash of color and flavor to your holiday celebrations. These vibrant, bite-sized delights are infused with the sweet, tangy taste of cherry gelatin and a hint of alcohol from vodka, making them the ultimate adult treat for any Christmas party. Whether you’re serving them as a quirky dessert or a creative party snack, these jello balls are sure to steal the spotlight at your holiday gatherings.

With their bright red color and the addition of maraschino cherry juice, these jello balls not only taste amazing but also look gorgeous on a festive spread. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they come together in a few simple steps. Plus, the option to make them ahead of time means you can focus on other holiday prep while your treat chills in the fridge. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or simply want a playful snack to enjoy with friends, these jello balls are sure to bring some cheer to your Christmas season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Fun and Festive

The bright red color and playful shape make these jello balls a fun addition to any Christmas spread.

2. Quick and Easy to Make

With just a few ingredients and simple instructions, these jello balls come together quickly and require minimal effort.

3. Alcohol-Infused for Adults

The vodka adds a boozy kick, turning these jello balls into a festive adult treat.

4. Versatile Flavor

The cherry gelatin can be swapped out for other flavors, making these jello balls adaptable to your taste.

5. Make Ahead

These jello balls can be prepared in advance, saving you time on the day of your party.

Ingredients

3 oz. package of cherry gelatin
1 cup boiling water
1/2 cup cold water
1/2 cup vodka
1/4 cup maraschino cherry juice
Maraschino cherries, drained and sliced

Variations

Swap the Gelatin Flavor

While cherry gelatin is a festive choice, you can use other flavors like raspberry, strawberry, or even lime for a unique twist.

Non-Alcoholic Version

For a family-friendly version, simply omit the vodka and replace it with extra cold water or fruit juice.

Add More Fruit

To make these jello balls even more colorful and flavorful, add small pieces of chopped fruit like strawberries or raspberries to the gelatin mixture.

Make Mini Versions

Instead of making large jello balls, use a small melon baller to create mini-sized jello balls for bite-sized servings.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Dissolve the Gelatin

In a bowl, dissolve the cherry gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved.

Step 2: Add Cold Water and Vodka

Once the gelatin is dissolved, add 1/2 cup of cold water, 1/2 cup of vodka, and 1/4 cup of maraschino cherry juice. Mix well.

Step 3: Refrigerate

Pour the mixture into a shallow dish or small molds. Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, or until fully set.

Step 4: Form the Jello Balls

Once the gelatin has set, use a melon baller or spoon to scoop out small, round balls of jello.

Step 5: Garnish

Slice the maraschino cherries and place a small piece of cherry on top of each jello ball for a festive garnish.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the jello balls chilled and enjoy the fun, boozy treat!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Quality Vodka: Since the vodka flavor is prominent, choose a quality vodka for the best taste.
Let the Gelatin Set Completely: Make sure the gelatin has fully set before scooping out the balls. This ensures they hold their shape.
Chill Properly: Allow the jello balls to chill for at least 3-4 hours for the best texture.
Add Color: If you want to enhance the look, add a drop of food coloring to the gelatin mixture before refrigerating.

How to Serve

Serve the Christmas Jello Balls as a fun, colorful treat at your holiday party. Place them on a festive serving platter or in individual cups for a cute presentation. They pair well with other holiday treats like cookies, cake pops, and cocktails. For an extra special touch, serve them alongside a punch bowl or festive cocktails.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover jello balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The gelatin balls should stay firm and ready to serve.

Freezing

While it’s best to enjoy these fresh, you can freeze the jello balls for up to a month. However, freezing may affect the texture, so it’s recommended to consume them within a few days for optimal quality.

Reheating

These jello balls should be served chilled and not reheated. They’re best enjoyed cold from the fridge.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different flavor of gelatin?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other gelatin flavors like raspberry, strawberry, or lime.

2. How long do Christmas Jello Balls last?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Can I make these non-alcoholic?

Yes, you can simply omit the vodka and use extra cold water or fruit juice.

4. Can I add other fruits to the jello balls?

Yes, small pieces of fruit like berries can be mixed into the gelatin before it sets.

5. Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! These jello balls can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

6. How do I get the perfect round shape?

Using a melon baller or small spoon helps create a round, uniform shape for the jello balls.

7. Can I use regular cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Maraschino cherries are ideal for this recipe because of their vibrant color and sweet taste, but you can use regular cherries if you prefer.

8. What if I don’t have a melon baller?

You can use a small spoon or a cookie scoop to form the jello balls, though the shape may be less uniform.

9. Can I add a different alcohol?

Yes, you can substitute vodka with rum or flavored liqueurs like peach schnapps or amaretto for a different flavor.

10. Can I freeze the Jello Balls?

It’s not recommended to freeze the jello balls, as freezing may affect their texture. They are best served fresh.

Conclusion

Christmas Jello Balls are a festive and fun addition to any holiday gathering. Their vibrant red color and playful bite-size form make them perfect for serving at parties, family gatherings, or as a unique dessert for your Christmas meal. With a simple recipe and customizable ingredients, these boozy jello balls are sure to impress and delight your guests, adding a touch of cheer to your holiday season.