Mexican Candy Shots is fun drink that is sweet, fruity, and spicy. They are based on Mexican candies that mix sugar and chili. These shots are perfect when you want something fun and different.
The name comes from how these shots taste like popular Mexican treats. Many candies in Mexico use flavors like watermelon, mango, or tamarind. You can pick your favorite to make these shots just right.
Mexican Candy Shots are great for parties and special events. They are bright and colorful, so they look amazing on any table. Plus, they are easy to make, and everyone will love the bold flavors.
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Why You’ll Love This Mexican Candy Shot Recipe
This Mexican Candy Shot recipe is easy to make and full of flavor. It uses simple ingredients that are easy to find at any store. The sweet and spicy mix will surprise your taste buds and impress your friends.
You can change it up by using different types of alcohol. For example, tequila, vodka, or even rum can work. You can also adjust the sweetness or spice to match what you like best.
These shots are great for any occasion. They are perfect for parties, holidays, or fun nights with friends. Whether it’s a special event or just a weekend treat, these colorful drinks will be a hit.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Base Ingredients
These are the main things you need for Mexican Candy Shots:
- 2 ounces of tequila: You can also use vodka or Malibu rum.
- 1 ounce of watermelon schnapps: This gives the shots a fruity taste.
- 1/2 ounce of lime juice: Lime adds a tangy, fresh flavor.
Sweet and Spicy Add-Ons
These make the shots sweet and spicy. You can change the amounts if you like:
- Tajín: Use this chili-lime powder to coat the rims of the glasses.
- Chamoy: Add 1 teaspoon for tangy and spicy flavor. This is optional but tasty.
- A dash of hot sauce: Use Valentina or Tabasco for a little bit of heat.
Optional Extras
Add these to make the shots even better or to change the taste:
- 1 ounce of watermelon juice: This makes the shots taste fresher.
- 1 teaspoon of sugar or agave syrup: Makes the shots a little sweeter.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Shot Glasses
To begin with, get the shot glasses ready. Rub lime juice on the rims of the glasses. After that, dip the rims in Tajín. This will add a chili-lime flavor and make the glasses look nice.
Additionally, place the glasses in the freezer for a few minutes. This will keep the drinks cold and refreshing. While this step is simple, it makes a big difference.
Step 2: Mix the Shot
Meanwhile, mix the drink in a shaker. Add 2 ounces of tequila, 1 ounce of watermelon schnapps, 1/2 ounce of lime juice, and a dash of hot sauce.
Furthermore, add ice to the shaker to cool the drink. Then, shake the shaker well to mix the flavors. This step makes sure the drink is smooth and cold.
Step 3: Serve and Garnish
At this point, you are ready to serve the shots. Strain the drink into the cold glasses. Hence, the drink will be smooth and free from ice.
Additionally, drizzle chamoy on top for extra tangy and spicy flavor. Then, add a garnish like a watermelon slice or candy skewer to make it look festive.
Finally, serve the shots and enjoy them with your friends. These drinks are colorful, tasty, and fun for any event.
Variations and Substitutions
Mexican Candy Jello Shots
Mexican Candy Jello Shots are easy and fun. To begin with, dissolve unflavored gelatin in hot water. Stir it until it melts completely.
After that, mix tequila, watermelon schnapps, lime juice, and hot sauce. Pour the mixture into small cups or molds. Put the cups in the fridge for at least three hours.
Lastly, sprinkle Tajín on top before serving. These jello shots are tasty and perfect for parties.
Malibu Mexican Candy Shot
If you like sweet drinks, use Malibu rum instead of tequila. Malibu has a coconut flavor that works well with watermelon schnapps. It also makes the drink less spicy.
Additionally, you can add a splash of pineapple juice for a tropical taste. The coconut and pineapple together make a smooth and fruity drink. This version is great for summer events.
Adjust the lime juice and hot sauce as needed. More lime makes it tangy, while more hot sauce adds spice.
Smirnoff Mexican Candy Shot
Smirnoff watermelon vodka is another option. It makes the drink smoother and fruitier. This version is less spicy than the original.
Moreover, you can add a splash of cranberry juice. Cranberry makes the drink tart and gives it a pretty pink color. It looks great at any party.
For decoration, add a slice of watermelon or a sugared rim. These small touches make the drink more fun.
Mocktail Version
For a non-alcoholic option, use watermelon juice instead of tequila. Replace the schnapps with lime soda to add sweetness and fizz. This version is perfect for kids or anyone who does not drink alcohol.
To make it spicy, add a pinch of Tajín or chili powder. Mix everything well and serve in small glasses. You can also coat the rims of the glasses with Tajín.
Garnish with a candy skewer or a watermelon ball for extra fun. This version is colorful and great for family gatherings.
How to Make Your Mexican Candy Shot Unique
You can easily change the Mexican Candy Shot to match your taste. Use these ideas to make it your own:
- Spice Level: Add more hot sauce or Tajín to make it spicier. Conversely, use less if you want it mild.
- Flavors: Instead of watermelon schnapps, try mango, strawberry, or tamarind flavors. These give the drink a fresh and fruity twist.
- Refreshing Add-Ons: Add cucumber juice for a cool and light flavor. Additionally, it balances the spice if you prefer a softer taste.
FAQs About Mexican Candy Shot
What Does a Mexican Candy Shot Taste Like?
A Mexican Candy Shot tastes sweet, fruity, and a little spicy. The watermelon schnapps and lime juice make it sweet and tangy. Meanwhile, the hot sauce or Tajín adds a gentle kick.
Think of it as tasting like a chili-covered lollipop or a Pulparindo candy. In summary, it’s a mix of sugar, spice, and a little zing.
How Much Sugar is in a Mexican Candy Shot?
The sugar comes mostly from the watermelon schnapps. Schnapps is sweet, so there’s already plenty of sugar in the drink. Moreover, adding syrups or sweeteners can increase the sugar.
To reduce sugar, use fresh watermelon juice instead of schnapps. Another option is to skip any extra sweeteners. This keeps the drink light but still fruity.
What’s the Difference Between a Mexican Candy Shot and Cocktail?
Shots are small and strong. They are made to drink in one sip. On the other hand, cocktails are larger and not as strong. They are served with more juice or soda to make them lighter.
If you prefer a less strong drink, you can turn this shot into a cocktail. Simply add more watermelon juice or lime soda to dilute the alcohol. This makes it refreshing and perfect for sipping.
Can I Make Mexican Candy Shots in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the drink ahead of time. Mix the tequila, schnapps, lime juice, and hot sauce in a pitcher. Chill the mixture in the fridge until you are ready to serve.
However, wait to rim the glasses and add garnishes until serving time. Doing this ensures the rims stay fresh and the garnishes look their best.
What Is Tajín, and Why Is It Used?
Tajín is a seasoning made of chili, lime, and salt. It is commonly used in Mexican snacks and drinks to add a spicy and tangy flavor.
In Mexican Candy Shots, Tajín is used to coat the rim of the glass. It makes each sip flavorful by adding a spicy and zesty touch. Besides, you can sprinkle it on top for even more taste.
The Mexican Candies That Inspired the Mexican Candy Shot
The Mexican Candy Shot gets its flavors from popular Mexican candies. These sweets mix sweet, tangy, and spicy tastes, making them bold and exciting. The drink brings these same flavors together in a fun way.
For example, tamarind lollipops are tangy and slightly spicy. This inspired the drink’s use of lime juice and hot sauce. Chili-covered gummies, on the other hand, balance fruity sweetness with a spicy kick, much like schnapps and Tajín in the shot.
Spicy tamarind pulp is another favorite treat. It has a strong flavor that matches the sweet and spicy notes in this drink. By combining schnapps, lime, and Tajín, the Mexican Candy Shot celebrates these traditional candies.
Mexican food is known for bold flavors. Similarly, this shot is a small and tasty way to enjoy the same mix. It’s like having a little piece of Mexico in every sip.
Party Pairings for Mexican Candy Shots
Perfect Snacks
Mexican Candy Shots pair well with many snacks. Mini tacos, nachos, and elote (Mexican street corn) are great choices. These snacks complement the sweet and spicy flavors of the shot.
Additionally, the crunch of nachos or the creaminess of elote balances the drink’s tangy kick. When served together, they create a flavorful and satisfying spread for any party.
Themed Cocktails
You can also serve the shots with other Mexican drinks. For example, margaritas, palomas, or micheladas work well. These cocktails match the fruity and spicy notes of the shot.
Moreover, offering different drinks gives guests more options. Some may enjoy the quick punch of the shot, while others may prefer sipping on a lighter cocktail.
Sweet Treats
For dessert, pair the shots with spicy tamarind candies or watermelon-flavored sweets. These treats go well with the drink’s fruity flavors and add an extra burst of fun.
Besides, you can serve other Mexican treats like chili-covered mango slices or spicy gummies (dulces enchilados). Together, these desserts make your party even more exciting and flavorful.
Pro Tips for the Best Mexican Candy Shots
Follow these tips to make your Mexican Candy Shots taste amazing. Small changes can make a big difference:
- Chill your ingredients: Keep tequila, schnapps, and lime juice in the fridge. Cold ingredients make the drink taste smooth and fresh.
- Use fresh lime juice: Fresh lime juice gives a sharp and tangy flavor. Bottled lime juice, on the other hand, may taste dull.
- Adjust the flavors: Add more hot sauce if you want more spice. If you like it sweeter, use extra schnapps or add a little sugar.
Nutritional Information
It’s good to know what’s in your drink. Mexican Candy Shots are fun but do have some calories. Here are the details:
- Calories per shot: Each shot has about 80–100 calories. The amount depends on how much alcohol and sugar you use.
- Lower calorie options: Use fresh fruit juice instead of schnapps. Moreover, skipping the chamoy drizzle can save a few extra calories.
These changes make the shots lighter but still tasty. You can enjoy them without feeling guilty.
Share Your Mexican Candy Shot Creations!
We would love to see your version of the Mexican Candy Shot! Did you add your own twist? Do you have a favorite pairing? Let us know in the comments.
Additionally, share photos of your creations to inspire others. Tell us how you adjusted the flavors or what snacks you served with your shots.
Finally, don’t forget to rate the recipe. Your feedback helps others know what to expect. We can’t wait to hear from you and see your ideas!