Pickleback Jell-O Shots
Pickleback Jell-O Shots are one of my guilt’s pleasures! Pickles are cut off ends, cut in half, crosswise and hollowed out. Pickle halves are then filled with a cool mix of pickle juice, whiskey and gelatin, and kept in the fridge until jelly is set. Juicy and flavorful, these gets me hooked right from the moment they’re served. And you, ready to give these a try?

12
servings15
minutesIf you are looking for a pickle dish that’s easy to make and fun to eat, these Pickleback Jell-O Shots are the way to go.
Ingredients
1 1/4 c. pickle juice
12 large pickles
2 packages plain gelatin
1/2 c. whiskey
1 tbsp. Chopped fresh dill
Directions
- Add pickle juice and whiskey to a small saucepan. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.
- Remove from heat then whisk in gelatin. Let mixture cool slightly.
- Cut off ends of each pickle, then cut in half crosswise. Scoop out the middle of each pickle to create a well; using a quarter teaspoon, .
- Carefully pour whiskey mixture into each pickle then sprinkle dill on top.
- Refrigerate until jello is set, about 2 hours. Enjoy!
Recipe Video
Source: https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/recipes/a53363/pickleback-jello-shots-recipe/
Notes
Pickleback Jell-O Shots are a novelty appetizer that combines hollowed pickles with a gelatin-based filling made from pickle juice and whiskey. Large pickles are trimmed, halved, and scooped to create a cavity, then filled with a warm mixture of pickle juice, gelatin, and whiskey. Once chilled, the filling sets inside the pickle, creating a sliceable, bite-sized shot with a built-in casing.
The recipe works because the natural brine from the pickles reinforces the flavor of the gelatin mixture, keeping the filling from tasting diluted. Heating the liquid just enough to dissolve the gelatin ensures a smooth set once refrigerated. Letting the mixture cool slightly before filling helps prevent the pickles from softening too much. Fresh dill added at the end provides a clean, herbal note that complements the salty base.
This recipe fits well into casual entertaining since it can be made ahead and stored until firm. The shots slice cleanly once set and are easy to serve straight from the refrigerator. Leftovers keep well when covered. The structure stays the same even if the pickle size varies slightly, as long as the centers are fully hollowed and evenly filled.

