Looking for a Halloween dessert that’s just as fun to make as it is to eat? Ghost Jello Shots are the answer! These adorable, ghost-shaped green apple treats blend spooky vibes with sweet nostalgia. Whether you’re hosting a haunted house party or planning a kid-friendly bash, these jiggly shots will disappear fast—just like real ghosts. They’re easy to customize for kids and adults alike, and best of all, they’re no-bake and budget-friendly. If you’re already in the mood for Halloween fun, don’t miss our pumpkin cheesecake truffles for another festive treat.
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Why Ghost Jello Shots Are a Halloween Hit
The perfect balance of spooky and sweet
There’s something about gelatin desserts that brings us back to childhood—and ghost-shaped jello? Even better. These jello shots pack a punch of tart green apple flavor with a smooth, jiggly texture that’s both fun and flavorful. The ghost molds turn basic jello into a festive highlight your guests will remember.
Kid-friendly or boozy—your choice
Planning a party for all ages? These shots are ultra-flexible. Just swap vodka with cold water and you’ve got a kid-approved snack. Keeping things adult-only? Add your favorite flavored vodka for an easy cocktail-style dessert. It’s the ultimate win-win for hosts who want something everyone can enjoy.
A no-bake treat with endless creative options
No oven? No problem. These shots come together with just boiling water, jello, and a mold. Plus, you can play around with color and flavor—think purple grape ghosts, orange citrus phantoms, or even red cherry devils. The recipe is adaptable, fun, and guaranteed to be the life of your Halloween table.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Ghost Jello Shots
Key ingredients and substitutions
Here’s what you’ll need to bring these edible apparitions to life:
| Ingredient | Purpose | Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Green Apple Gelatin (3.94 oz) | Main flavor and color | Lime, watermelon, grape, or orange gelatin |
| Boiling Water (1 cup) | Dissolves the gelatin | No substitution |
| Vodka or Cold Water (1/2 cup) | Adds adult kick or makes kid-friendly | Use flavored vodka or fruit juice for a twist |
| Ghost Mold | Shapes the shots | Any silicone mold (pumpkin, bat, etc.) |
| Black Gel Food Coloring | To paint eyes and mouth | Edible ink pens or melted chocolate |
| Non-stick Spray | Helps release from mold | Any baking spray or oil |
Optional tools and supplies
You’ll also want:
- Measuring cup with a spout (for easy pouring)
- Tray to stabilize molds in the fridge
- Small paintbrush (for decorating faces)
- Storage container (for chilling or transporting)
Looking for inspiration? Try our pumpkin crisp recipe—it’s another fall favorite that brings seasonal spice and comfort to any table.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Ghost Jello Shots
Prep your ghost molds
First, place your clean ghost-shaped silicone molds on a tray. This makes it easier to move them in and out of the fridge without spills. Spray the molds liberally with non-stick spray—don’t skimp! This is key to making sure your ghosts don’t get stuck or break apart.
Mix the jello base
In a large measuring cup or mixing bowl with a spout, add 1 cup of boiling water and the green apple gelatin. Whisk it until fully dissolved—no gritty bits! Then stir in 1/2 cup of vodka (or cold water if making it kid-safe). Mix again until fully combined.
Set and unmold like a pro
Carefully pour the liquid into the prepared molds. Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for 3 to 4 hours or until set. To unmold, gently pull the edges away and press from the bottom. If your ghosts are shy and don’t come out easily, try reducing the water slightly next time for a firmer set. Now, using a tiny paintbrush and black food coloring, give your ghosts spooky faces! Store in the fridge until serving.
Check out our apple cinnamon blondies for another crowd-pleaser that balances sweetness with seasonal spice.
Variations and Creative Twists
Try different flavors and colors
While green apple gelatin makes a bold statement, don’t be afraid to get creative. Lime, orange, grape, and even watermelon jello all make excellent substitutions. Want your ghosts to be purple or orange instead of green? Just pick a flavor that matches your color scheme. You can even do a batch in multiple colors for a rainbow ghost army.
Flavored spirits for a grown-up twist
Vodka is the standard go-to, but the fun doesn’t stop there. Flavored vodkas like whipped cream, caramel apple, or citrus give your Ghost Jello Shots extra personality. Want to spice things up even more? Mix in half vodka and half sour apple schnapps or peach schnapps for a punchy kick. This trick turns a childhood snack into a grown-up guilty pleasure.
Don’t miss our apple pie moonshine recipe for another flavorful adult-friendly Halloween option that pairs beautifully with spooky season vibes.
Add spooky toppings or mix-ins
Go beyond just the ghost shape. Want to turn these into a full-blown edible Halloween display? Add gummy worms, edible glitter, or a touch of whipped cream “fog” on the tray. You can also drizzle raspberry sauce beneath each ghost for a “bloody” horror effect your guests won’t forget.
Serving and Storage Tips for Halloween Parties
Keeping them chilled at events
Jello shots are best when cold and firm. If you’re serving these outside or at a party that lasts for hours, keep the tray over crushed ice or use a cooler under the display table. You don’t want them to melt—or lose their shape.
Presentation ideas for your spooky setup
Place your ghost shots on a black or silver tray lined with spiderweb doilies or fake cobwebs for eerie elegance. Use LED tealights underneath a glass tray for a “floating ghost” effect. For kid parties, surround the tray with Halloween candy for a colorful finish.
Discover great ideas like our easy pumpkin fluff recipe if you’re looking for more Halloween-ready snacks that are just as fast to make.
Storing leftovers and making ahead
You can easily make these jello ghosts a day or two in advance. They’ll stay firm and delicious for up to four days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container layered with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Just don’t freeze them—it’ll ruin the texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ghost Jello Shots
Can I make these with any jello flavor?
Absolutely. While green apple gives that bright spooky green, feel free to use lime, watermelon, grape, or even strawberry. Just keep in mind how the color affects your ghostly theme. Clearer jellos may not show face decorations well.
What kind of alcohol works best?
Plain vodka is the classic choice because it’s neutral and lets the jello flavor shine. But for more flavor, try whipped cream vodka, sour apple schnapps, or flavored rums. You can even go for a tequila-lime combo if you’re aiming for a Margarita-style jello ghost.
How do I prevent them from sticking in the mold?
The trick is in the prep: use a generous amount of non-stick spray, and let them chill completely (3–4 hours or overnight). Still having issues? Reduce the total water by 1/4 cup next time for a firmer consistency that pops out easier.
Can kids eat these?
Yes—just replace the vodka with cold water, juice, or even lemon-lime soda. The spooky shape and sweet flavor will be a hit at any school-friendly Halloween event.
How long do they last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, these jello shots last up to four days. Keep them cold until serving, especially if using alcohol, since they’ll melt faster at room temperature.
Conclusion: Why Ghost Jello Shots Deserve a Spot at Every Halloween Bash
Ghost Jello Shots are the ultimate mix of fun, flavor, and fright. They’re simple to make, easy to customize, and always a hit—whether you’re catering to grown-up goblins or little ghouls. With spooky molds, bright colors, and the option to keep them kid-safe or boozy, they’re guaranteed to haunt your party in the best way possible.
So don’t just bring another bag of candy this year. Show up with ghost-shaped jello shots and watch everyone’s eyes light up—right before they vanish off the tray!
Don’t miss our pumpkin s’mores cookies for another festive dessert to round out your Halloween treat table.
PrintGhost Jello Shots
Ghost Jello Shots are spooky, no-bake Halloween treats made with green apple gelatin and shaped like little ghosts. Perfect for both kids and adults, they can be made with or without alcohol for any Halloween gathering.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 jello shots
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Refrigeration
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 (3.94 oz) box green apple gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup vodka or cold water
- Non-stick spray (for greasing molds)
- Ghost-shaped silicone mold
- Black gel food coloring (optional, for decorating faces)
Instructions
- Place your ghost molds on a tray and set aside.
- In a mixing cup with a spout, add 1 cup boiling water to the green apple gelatin.
- Whisk until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
- Add 1/2 cup of vodka (or cold water for kid-friendly version) and whisk again.
- Lightly grease the ghost molds with non-stick spray.
- Carefully pour the mixture into the molds.
- Refrigerate for 3–4 hours or until fully set.
- To unmold, gently pull the edges and press from the bottom to release the jello shots.
- Use black gel food coloring and a small brush to paint on ghost faces (optional).
- Keep refrigerated until serving.
Notes
- You can use lime, grape, orange, or watermelon gelatin for different flavors and colors.
- Flavored vodkas can enhance the adult version (e.g., whipped cream or caramel apple).
- Reduce water by 1/4 cup for firmer consistency if needed.
- Store in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Do not freeze, as it alters the texture of the gelatin.
