Jelly Bean Shot

If you’re looking for a fun and visually appealing shot to serve at your next party, the Jelly Bean Shot is a must-try. This candy-inspired drink mimics the taste of a black licorice jelly bean, making it a unique addition to any gathering. The Jelly Bean Shot is both flavorful and eye-catching, with its layers of grenadine, Sambuca, and Southern Comfort.

Equipment

To make a perfect Jelly Bean Shot, you need the right equipment.

Shot Glass: Use a 2-ounce shot glass. This size is ideal for layered shots. Ensure the glass is clean and clear.
Bar Spoon: A bar spoon is crucial. It helps you create distinct layers by pouring liquids slowly. The long handle fits perfectly into a shot glass.
Jigger: A jigger measures ingredients accurately. Typically, a jigger has two sides: one ounce and half an ounce.
Pour Spouts: Use pour spouts on your bottles. This helps you pour smoothly and control the flow.

Ingredients

To make a Jelly Bean Shot, you need a combination of liqueurs and spirits. Here are the main ingredients you’ll use:

1/2 oz. (15ml) Blue Curacao
1 oz. (30ml) Cherry Vodka
1 1/2 oz. (45ml) Pineapple Juice
1/2 oz. (15ml) Grenadine
1/2 oz. (15ml) Sambuca or Anisette

Use a shot glass and bar spoon for layering the ingredients. These will help create the signature look and flavor of the Jelly Bean Shot.

Instructions

Use the following steps to create this delightful cocktail.

Steps

Pour Grenadine: Start by pouring 1/2 oz. of grenadine into the bottom of each shot glass. Hold the glass steady to ensure the grenadine stays at the bottom.
Add Sambuca: Use a bar spoon to float 1/2 oz. of sambuca or anisette over the grenadine.
Layer Southern Comfort: Float 1/2 oz. Southern Comfort over the second layer using the back of a bar spoon. Pour slowly to keep the layers separated.
Optional Variations: To add a twist, consider incorporating different flavors. 1/2 oz. Blue Curaçao followed by 1 oz. Cherry Vodka and 1 1/2 oz. Pineapple Juice can be layered similarly.

Tasting Notes

The taste of a Jelly Bean Shot is unique and enjoyable. The combination of layers creates a visually appealing shot.

The first sip delivers sweet and fruity flavors. Grenadine or blackberry brandy often forms the base, providing a strong, sugary taste.

Next, the anise liqueur layer adds a licorice note. This gives the shot a distinct and memorable flavor.

Finally, the top layer typically has a Southern Comfort or another liqueur. This adds warmth and a smooth finish.

Each layer balances the other. The sweetness of the base combines well with the licorice middle layer, rounded off by the warmth of the top layer.

This shot is not overly strong. It offers a pleasant, mixed sensory experience. The flavors are well-integrated, creating a smooth, enjoyable drink.

You might notice a slight burn from the alcohol. This is common and expected. The sweetness helps mitigate it.

Similar Cocktails

If you enjoy Jelly Bean Shots, there are several other layered and fun shots that you might like.

B-52

A classic layered shot with a smooth, creamy texture:

1/2 oz Kahlúa
1/2 oz Bailey’s Irish Cream
1/2 oz Grand Marnier

Layer these ingredients using a bar spoon.

Candy Corn Shot

Perfect for a sweet tooth:

1/3 oz Galliano
1/3 oz Orange Curacao
1/3 oz Cream

Use a bar spoon to layer each ingredient carefully.

Irish Flag

A festive drink with bold colors:

1/3 oz Green Creme de Menthe
1/3 oz Bailey’s Irish Cream
1/3 oz Grand Marnier

Layer each ingredient with a bar spoon for a distinct visual effect.

Red, White, and Blue

This shot is vibrant and patriotic:

1/3 oz Grenadine
1/3 oz Peach Schnapps
1/3 oz Blue Curacao

Layer these ingredients neatly for distinct colors in the glass.

Brain Hemorrhage

A spooky yet delicious shot:

1/2 oz Peach Schnapps
1/2 oz Bailey’s Irish Cream
A few drops of Grenadine

Pour Peach Schnapps, then Bailey’s. Add Grenadine for a “bloody” effect.

History

The Jelly Bean Shot is a popular layered shooter. It is known for its colorful appearance and sweet taste. This shot became trendy in American bars in the late 20th century.

The liqueurs are chosen for their density and colors to ensure they layer neatly.

The shot’s layered appearance mimics the colors of jelly beans. This visual similarity contributes to its name and appeal. The Jelly Bean Shot is enjoyed for its sweet flavor and engaging presentation.

Today, this drink is a staple in many cocktail bars. Its playful nature and nostalgic reference make it a fun choice for celebrations.

Quick Pro Tips

Steady Hands: When pouring liquids, you need steady hands. Hold the bartending spoon over the shot glass. Pour slowly to create even layers.

Temperature Matters: Cold ingredients can help maintain distinct layers. Keep your alcohol in the fridge before using.

Serve Immediately: Jelly Bean Shots are best enjoyed fresh. Serve right after layering for the best taste and look.

When to Serve

The Jelly Bean Shot is a vibrant and fun cocktail. Its colorful layers make it perfect for various occasions. Here are some ideal times to serve this drink:

Parties and Gatherings