How Long Are Jello Shots Good For? Answered (2023 Updated)

Last Updated on September 29, 2023 by Lydia Martin

It’s not an adult party unless there are Jello shots. Jello brings out your inner child, and the booze eases the pains of adulthood. 

Jello shots are fantastic, but you could get yourself into a jam if you make them too early or have too much to get rid of.

So, the main question is – how long are Jello shots good for? Luckily, we have the answer. Keep reading.  

How Long Do Jello Shots Stay Good?

In the fridge, Jello shots stay good for 7 to 10 days. But even with the alcohol mixed in, the gelatin will lose its flavor until it’s almost gone around the 8- to 9-day mark.

Most people think that Jello shots are just like regular package Jello because of its ridiculously long shelf life. Jello powder can be stored for a long time (even after the expiration date has passed) as long as it is stored in a dry, cool place.

Ideally, Jello shots stay good within three months of opening the package.

But when you make Jello – whether it’s a cup of Jello for dessert or a boozy Jello shot, you should consume those ASAP.

But which vodka brand is best for jello shots?

How Long Can You Keep Them Good? 

Sealed

You can keep sealed Jello shots good for two to three months. The shelf life is a little longer when stored in an airtight glass container than in a plastic container.

That’s because heat moves slowly in glass containers compared to plastic ones – causing spoilage. 

Opened

Once you open the Jello shots, it will be susceptible to microbes – causing it to go bad. Therefore, an opened Jello shots can only be good for three to five days and must be refrigerated.

Better to consume the shots right away after opening the packaging to savor the full flavor of Jello. Find out how to make tequila jello shots here.

Do Jello Shots Go Bad? 

Yes, Jello shots go bad. There are signs that the shot goes bad, and that include: 

• Strange smell
• Discoloration
• Mold buildup on top
• Change in texture (watery or hard)

Even though the alcohol will still be mostly good, the gelatin will start to deteriorate. You might see water seeping through the gelatin –collecting on the sides. Once you see these signs, you must discard them right away. But how long can club soda last?

Will Freezing Jello Shots Make Them Stay Fresh Longer?

Freezing Jello shots can make them stay longer but not fresh.

The presence of alcohol won’t help the Jello set faster because it doesn’t usually freeze. Also, you can only make your Jello shots cold on the outside and wet on the inside. The rest of the shot will tumble down because the ice will form on the top.

Remember – you can store Jello shots in the fridge for up to 7–10 days. But, if you really opt for freezing Jello shots, it can last up to four months in the freezer. But we don’t really recommend it. 

Read: Mexican Candy Shot Recipe

How Far In Advance Can You Make Them? 

You make Jello shots in advance, like 3 to 5 days before the party or event. 

Gelatin is an animal-derived product [1], so once it’s been made, it doesn’t last as long, whether it has alcohol in it or not.

If you want the shots at your party to be the best they can be, don’t wait too long to serve them out. In about five days, the flavors will be less strong. But how many jello shots can get you drunk?

FAQs

Are jello shots still good after a week?

Jello shots can still be good after a week. However, consuming them within 3 to 5 days is highly recommended if you want them fresh and at their best.

How long will jello shots last in a cooler?

Jello shots can last in a cooler for three to five days, especially the opened shots. But in some cases, if you store them properly, it can extend to 7 to 10 days in the fridge. 

How long are jello shots good for in the freezer?

Jello shots can still be good for up to four months in the freezer. But don’t expect it to be fresh as new, as the longer it is stored, the higher the chance of losing its flavors and shape. Check out our recommended tequilas for jello shots here. 

Final Thoughts

Jello shots are a fun alcohol-infused treat to serve at the party. They’re colorful, flavorful, and delicious, which matches well with any lively occasion. 

While making the shots in advance is a good idea, considering their shelf life is an important factor.

Remember – it can only stay good and fresh for two to three months when sealed and three to five days once opened. 

Reference:

1. https://www.peta.org/about-peta/faq/what-is-gelatin-made-of/