Halloween Eyeball Jello Shots are a fun and spooky treat that’s perfect for any Halloween party! These little jiggly eyeballs are made with colorful jello and a surprise candy eye center that looks just like a real eyeball. They’re playful, a little creepy, and super tasty, combining a sweet, fruity flavor with a cheeky Halloween twist.
I love making these because they always get everyone laughing and chatting. It’s a simple recipe, but the eyeball effect is so clever that people can’t stop looking at them before enjoying their shot. I usually make a few batches in different colors to keep things bright and exciting, and I find it’s a great way to break the ice at a party.
My favorite way to serve these is chilled on a spooky platter with some scattered candy pumpkins and fake spider webs around. They’re a total hit with friends and family, young and old (just without the alcohol for the kids, of course!). If you’re looking for something that’s a bit different but still easy and fun, these Halloween Eyeball Jello Shots are an awesome choice!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flavored Jell-O: Cherry or raspberry works great for the red “bloodshot” part. If you want a different color, try lime or blue raspberry flavors for a unique twist. I stick to red for the creepy eyeball look!
Vanilla or Coconut Jell-O: This white layer forms the eyeball’s sclera (the white part). Vanilla is mild and sweet, but coconut adds a subtle tropical flavor. If unavailable, unflavored gelatin mixed with sweetened condensed milk can work too.
Vodka: Optional! Add vodka for adult jello shots, but leave it out for kids or those avoiding alcohol. You can swap vodka with sparkling water or fruit juice to keep the jello’s texture nice.
Candy Eyeballs: These are the star of the show. If you can’t find candy eyeballs, small round white candies with a black dot made from edible marker or melted chocolate can do the trick.
Silicone Molds: Dome-shaped molds help create that perfect eyeball shape. If you don’t have molds, small round bowls or even cupcake liners can work, but the shape won’t be as round.
How Can I Layer Jello Smoothly Without Mixing Colors?
Layering the red and white jello without them blending is key to that cool eyeball effect! Here’s how I do it:
- Pour the first red layer and chill until just set but still slightly tacky—about 15 minutes.
- Make sure the white jello is cool but liquid. Warm white jello can melt the red layer and cause mixing.
- Carefully place candy eyes on the red layer before adding white jello to keep them from sinking.
- Pour the white layer slowly over the back of a spoon to gently cover the candy eyes without disturbing the red layer.
- Chill the white layer until fully set before adding the final red layer.
- Patience and slow pouring keep the layers neat and distinct!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Dome-shaped silicone molds – perfect for creating rounded, eyeball shapes and easy to pop jello shots out.
- Medium mixing bowls – to dissolve the different jello flavors separately without mixing them too soon.
- Measuring cups – for accurate water and vodka amounts so your jello sets just right.
- Spoons or small ladles – helps to gently layer jello without stirring colors together.
- Refrigerator – to chill and set the jello layers properly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap raspberry or cherry jello with lime or blue raspberry for fun color twists that still look cool as eyeballs.
- Use coconut milk instead of water for the white layer to add a creamy texture and hint of tropical flavor.
- Add a drop of red food coloring to vodka for a deeper red hue and stronger cocktail flavor if you prefer boozy shots.
- Try edible glitter or small candy “veins” inside the red layer for extra spooky eyeball details.
Halloween Eyeball Jello Shots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Red Jello Layer:
- 1 package (3 oz) raspberry or cherry-flavored Jell-O
- 1 cup boiling water
- ½ cup cold water
- ¼ cup vodka (optional, omit for non-alcoholic version)
For The White Jello Layer (Eyeball white part):
- 1 package (3 oz) vanilla or coconut-flavored Jell-O
- 1 cup boiling water
- ½ cup cold water
For Decoration and Tools:
- Candy eyeballs or edible googly eyes (about 12 pieces)
- Dome-shaped silicone molds (to form the eyeball shapes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare in stages and a total of 3 to 4 hours, mostly chilling time to let the layers set properly between pours. Patience is key to get those sharp, distinct eyeball layers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Red Jello Base Layer:
In a medium bowl, pour 1 cup boiling water over the raspberry or cherry Jell-O powder and stir until fully dissolved. Mix in ½ cup cold water and vodka if you’re using it. Pour a little of this red Jello into each dome mold—just enough to cover the bottom. Chill the molds in the fridge for about 15 minutes until the layer is slightly firm but not fully set. This will keep candy eyeballs from sinking.
2. Prepare the White Jello Layer:
In another bowl, dissolve the vanilla or coconut Jell-O powder in 1 cup boiling water. Add ½ cup cold water and refrigerate. Stir occasionally as it cools, but don’t let it set. The mixture should be firm enough to hold its shape but still pour easily to cover the eyeball.
3. Add Candy Eyes and White Layer:
Place one candy eyeball in the center of each partially set red Jello dome, with the eye facing up. Gently pour the white Jello mixture over the candy eyes, covering them completely. Return the molds to the fridge and chill for about 30 minutes to let this white layer firm up.
4. Add Final Red Jello Layer and Chill:
After the white layer is set, pour the remaining red Jello mixture over it, filling the molds to the top. Place back in the fridge and chill for 2–3 hours, or until completely firm.
5. Unmold and Serve:
Carefully loosen the edges of the silicone molds and invert the jello shots onto a serving plate. You’ll have spooky, round eyeball jello shots ready to impress your guests. Keep them chilled until serving and enjoy your creepy treats!
Can I Make These Jello Shots Without Alcohol?
Absolutely! Simply omit the vodka and replace it with an equal amount of cold water or fruit juice. The jello will still set perfectly and be just as tasty for all ages.
How Do I Store Leftover Eyeball Jello Shots?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and firm for up to 3 days. Avoid storing at room temperature to prevent melting.
Can I Use Different Flavors or Colors for the Jello?
Yes! You can switch the red layer to other flavors like lime or blue raspberry for fun variations. Just keep the white layer vanilla or coconut to maintain the eyeball effect.
What’s the Best Way to Remove the Jello Shots from the Molds?
Gently pull the silicone mold edges away from the jello to loosen them, then invert onto a plate. Silicone molds work best for easy removal without breaking your eyeballs!
