Let me tell you, the moment the sparkling bubbles of champagne dance on your tongue while the zesty orange flavor bursts through is downright irresistible. The first time I made these Sparkling Mimosa Jello Shots, I was instantly hooked. It was at a sunny brunch gathering, and honestly, the kind of moment where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’re onto something truly special. When I was knee-high to a grasshopper, my grandma used to whip up all sorts of jiggly desserts, but these shots bring that nostalgic comfort with a grown-up twist.
My family couldn’t stop sneaking them off the tray (and I can’t really blame them). Let’s face it, they’re dangerously easy to make and provide pure, nostalgic comfort with a splash of sparkle. Whether you’re looking to brighten up your Pinterest cookie board or need a sweet treat for your next potluck, these Sparkling Mimosa Jello Shots are the perfect choice. I’ve tested this recipe more times than I can count—in the name of research, of course—and it’s become a staple for family gatherings, gifting, and sunny celebrations alike. You’re going to want to bookmark this one.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Honestly, these Sparkling Mimosa Jello Shots hit all the right notes. They’re perfect for anyone who loves a quick, refreshing treat with a little bubbly kick. Here’s why this recipe stands out:
- Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for last-minute party plans or casual get-togethers.
- Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery trips needed; you probably already have the essentials in your kitchen.
- Perfect for Parties: Great for brunches, bridal showers, bachelorette parties, or any celebration calling for a fun, sparkling sip.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Always gets rave reviews from both kids and adults—okay, maybe just the adults here!
- Unbelievably Delicious: The combo of crisp champagne and fresh orange juice in a jiggly, bite-sized form is next-level refreshment.
This isn’t just another jello shot recipe. The trick? Using real sparkling wine (champagne or prosecco) combined with fresh-squeezed orange juice for that authentic mimosa flavor. Plus, the perfect balance between the jello’s texture and the fizzy bubbles makes it a party hit every time. It’s like comfort food, but with a festive fizz that’s surprisingly light and bright. It’s ideal for impressing guests without the fuss or turning a simple celebration into something memorable.
What Ingredients You Will Need
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and a satisfying jiggly texture without any fuss. Most of these are pantry staples or easy to find at your local market—no stress, no mystery.
- 1 cup (240 ml) fresh orange juice (best if freshly squeezed for brightness)
- 1 cup (240 ml) sparkling wine (champagne, prosecco, or cava works beautifully)
- 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar (adjust to taste if you prefer sweeter or less sweet)
- 3 tablespoons (30 g) unflavored gelatin powder (I recommend Knox brand for consistent results)
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) water (to bloom the gelatin)
- Optional: fresh orange slices or zest (for garnish and an extra pop of citrus)
If you want to swap out sparkling wine, use a non-alcoholic sparkling cider or sparkling grape juice for a festive mocktail version. For a gluten-free option, all ingredients here are naturally gluten-free—just check your sparkling wine label. Also, if you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of triple sec or orange liqueur amps up the flavor nicely, but it’s totally optional.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls: One to bloom the gelatin, another to mix the liquids.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precision makes a difference here.
- Whisk or spoon: For blending the sugar and gelatin smoothly.
- Small silicone molds or mini cups: To set the jello shots—silicone ones make unmolding a breeze.
- Refrigerator space: You’ll need room to chill these for at least 4 hours.
If you don’t have mini silicone molds, small paper cups or even an ice cube tray work fine, but I find silicone molds give the best shape and easy release. Personally, I avoid metal pans here since jello can stick. Using a small ladle or measuring cup with a spout helps pour the mixture evenly without spills. Keeping your tools clean and dry also ensures no weird textures or clumps sneak in.
Preparation Method
- Bloom the gelatin: Pour 1/4 cup (60 ml) cold water into a small bowl. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons (30 g) unflavored gelatin evenly over the surface. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the gelatin absorbs the water and becomes a thick, spongy mass.
- Heat the orange juice and sugar: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup (240 ml) fresh orange juice and 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar. Warm over medium heat, stirring often until the sugar dissolves completely. Don’t let it boil; just get it hot enough to dissolve the sugar and melt the gelatin later. This should take about 3–5 minutes.
- Add gelatin to the orange juice mixture: Remove the pan from heat. Stir the bloomed gelatin into the warm orange juice mixture until completely dissolved and smooth. This is key; any undissolved bits will ruin the texture.
- Cool slightly before adding sparkling wine: Let the orange juice and gelatin mixture cool for about 10 minutes at room temperature. It should still be liquid but not hot, so it doesn’t fizz out your bubbles.
- Mix in sparkling wine: Gently stir in 1 cup (240 ml) sparkling wine. Go slow to keep as much fizz as possible. At this point, you want a smooth, well-blended liquid with all your flavors combined.
- Pour into molds: Carefully ladle or pour the mixture into mini silicone molds or small cups. Don’t fill to the brim; leave a little space to avoid spills.
- Refrigerate: Chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. The jello shots will set firm but still have a tender, slightly bouncy texture.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, top each shot with a tiny slice of fresh orange or a sprinkle of orange zest for extra zing and pizzazz.
If you notice your gelatin isn’t setting, it might be because the mixture was too warm when you added it or the gelatin was old. Always bloom gelatin first, and don’t rush the cooling step before adding sparkling wine. When ready, the jello shots should be firm enough to hold their shape but still jiggle enticingly—just like a perfect party treat.
Cooking Tips & Techniques
Here’s where things get interesting. Getting the perfect texture on your Sparkling Mimosa Jello Shots is all about timing and temperature. I learned the hard way that adding sparkling wine to hot liquid kills the bubbles, making the shots flat and dull. Let the orange juice mixture cool before folding in the bubbly.
Blooming gelatin properly is non-negotiable. Sprinkle it evenly on cold water and don’t rush. Skipping this step is a common mistake that leaves you with gritty or uneven shots.
Pouring into molds slowly and gently helps keep the sparkle inside. I like using a small ladle or a measuring cup with a spout for precision. If you’re short on time, chilling them in the freezer for 1-2 hours can speed things up, but watch carefully to avoid freezing.
If you want to multitask, prepare the gelatin mix first, then clean up and get garnishes ready while it cools. This little trick keeps the process smooth and stress-free.
Variations & Adaptations
One of the best parts about this recipe? It’s a blank canvas. Here are a few ways to switch things up:
- Fruity Twist: Swap orange juice with grapefruit or pineapple juice for a tropical vibe. Just adjust sugar to taste since some juices are sweeter.
- Mocktail Version: Use sparkling apple cider or grape juice instead of champagne for a kid-friendly or alcohol-free option.
- Herb Infusion: Add a sprig of fresh mint or rosemary to the warm orange juice to steep before mixing gelatin. Strain before setting for a subtle herbal note.
Personally, I once tried adding a splash of elderflower liqueur for an aromatic, floral hint that was surprisingly delightful. Also, you can make these in larger molds for jello “shots” you can cut into cubes for sharing.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
Serve these Sparkling Mimosa Jello Shots chilled, straight from the fridge. They’re perfect finger food for brunch tables or cocktail parties. Arrange them on a pretty platter with fresh orange wedges for a festive display.
Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing as it changes the texture and fizz. When ready to serve again, a quick 10-minute chill in the fridge freshens them up nicely.
The flavors actually deepen after a few hours, so if you can make them the day before your party, that’s ideal. They keep their sparkle surprisingly well, though, so no need to worry about losing that celebratory fizz.
Nutritional Information & Benefits
Each jello shot contains approximately 80–100 calories, depending on the sparkling wine and juice used. This recipe offers a light treat compared to heavier desserts, with natural vitamin C from the fresh orange juice.
The unflavored gelatin provides a small boost of protein and is known to support joint and skin health. Since this recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, it fits well into many dietary plans. Just keep in mind the alcohol content for those monitoring intake.
Conclusion
These Sparkling Mimosa Jello Shots are a fun, refreshing way to bring a bit of sparkle to your next gathering. They’re easy, quick, and pack all the best parts of a mimosa in a playful, bite-sized form. I love how customizable they are and how they bring smiles around the table every time.
Give this recipe a try, tweak it to your liking, and share your favorite twists with friends and family. I’d love to hear how you make it your own—drop a comment or share your photos. Here’s to making your celebrations a little brighter (and a lot more delicious)!
FAQs About Sparkling Mimosa Jello Shots
Can I make these jello shots ahead of time?
Absolutely! They taste even better after chilling overnight. Just cover them tightly and keep refrigerated until serving.
What if I don’t have gelatin?
You can use agar-agar as a vegetarian substitute, but the setting time and texture will differ somewhat. Follow the package instructions for best results.
How can I prevent the gelatin from clumping?
Always sprinkle gelatin evenly over cold water to bloom it properly. Stir well when dissolving in warm liquid to avoid lumps.
Can I use flavored sparkling wine?
Yes, but keep in mind that strongly flavored sparkling wines might change the taste of the jello shots. Choose a dry or semi-dry variety for best balance.
How do I store leftover jello shots?
Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as it affects the texture and fizz.
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Sparkling Mimosa Jello Shots
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
These Sparkling Mimosa Jello Shots combine crisp champagne and fresh orange juice in a jiggly, bite-sized form, perfect for parties and celebrations. They are quick, easy, and refreshing with a bubbly kick.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (240 ml) fresh orange juice (best if freshly squeezed for brightness)
- 1 cup (240 ml) sparkling wine (champagne, prosecco, or cava works beautifully)
- 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 3 tablespoons (30 g) unflavored gelatin powder
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) water (to bloom the gelatin)
- Optional: fresh orange slices or zest (for garnish and extra citrus pop)
Instructions
- Pour 1/4 cup (60 ml) cold water into a small bowl. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons (30 g) unflavored gelatin evenly over the surface. Let it sit for 5 minutes until gelatin blooms and becomes thick and spongy.
- In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup (240 ml) fresh orange juice and 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar. Warm over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves completely. Do not boil; heat for about 3–5 minutes.
- Remove the pan from heat. Stir the bloomed gelatin into the warm orange juice mixture until completely dissolved and smooth.
- Let the mixture cool for about 10 minutes at room temperature until still liquid but not hot.
- Gently stir in 1 cup (240 ml) sparkling wine slowly to preserve fizz and blend flavors.
- Carefully ladle or pour the mixture into mini silicone molds or small cups, leaving a little space at the top.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight until set with a tender, slightly bouncy texture.
- Before serving, garnish each shot with a small slice of fresh orange or a sprinkle of orange zest.
Notes
Bloom gelatin properly by sprinkling evenly over cold water and letting it sit before dissolving. Cool the orange juice mixture before adding sparkling wine to preserve bubbles. Use silicone molds for easy unmolding. Store leftovers covered in the fridge up to 3 days; avoid freezing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jello shot (approx
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 11
- Sodium: 5
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Protein: 1
Keywords: mimosa jello shots, sparkling jello shots, party jello shots, champagne jello, orange jello shots, easy party recipe, brunch dessert





