Mexican Candy Shots – Festive Tequila Shots

These Mexican candy shots are perfect for the stressful fast-approaching festive season. They are very easy to make, pack a big punch, and can even be converted into kid-friendly drinks!

If you are looking for more drink ideas, then you have to take a look at the Drinks Section on my site. Personally, I love the refreshing taste of a classic Mexican Margarita.

You can also try some drinks that are a little less conventional, like this Dominican Summer Drink or this Canteloupe Melon Juice.

What Are Mexican Candy Shots Made Of?

Mexican candy shots are unique, versatile, and becoming more popular across the globe. They are made with three must-add ingredients: tequila, watermelon schnapps, and a dash of hot sauce.

Now, traditionally, these hot sauce shots are made with a Tajin-covered rim. This is a popular spice rub used for various meat dishes.

The shots we are making today can be made with Tajin rims. The hot sauce is optional for those who do not like the extra kick.

For today’s version, choose between a Tajin rim or a sweeter, festive alternative with hundreds and thousands, easily sourced from bakery supply stores or online (I recommend from Wilton).

Variations Of This Mexican Candy Shots Recipe

There are quite a few variations you can try for this Mexican candy shots recipe. The best way to figure out what you like is to try a couple of different things.

Non-Alcoholic

• Swap schnapps for watermelon, strawberry, raspberry, guava, or cranberry juice.
• For an alcohol-free version without a watermelon taste, try strawberry or mango schnapps alternatives or even peppermint for a bolder flavor.
• Replace tequila with non-alcoholic variants. Here is a fantastic list of easy-to-find options.

Hot Sauce

I recommend Tabasco for a moderate kick. Feel free to test different brands and heat levels, but remember, flavor trumps spice in these shots.

Rim

• Traditional Tajin rims are great, but I’m also trying festive hundreds and thousands.
• Mix it up with classic salt or sugar rims, and personalize with your choice of garnishes.

Now, even though these are theme-appropriate, you can make any rim you want. You can keep it classic with a salt or sugar rim, and garnish it however you want.

Tips For Making Authentic Mexican Candy Shots

• If you don’t have a cocktail shaker, you can combine all of the shot ingredients in a jug or small mixing bowl. Add the ice and give the ingredients a couple of stirs. The stirring (or shaking) helps emulsify the ingredients, especially the hot sauce.
• If your cocktail shaker doesn’t have a strainer, you can use a tea strainer or mini sieve instead. Just make sure they are completely clean so they don’t impart their own flavor.

FAQs

Why is my rim garnish not sticking?

The most common reason is that the rim wasn’t covered properly with water or lime juice. When the ingredients are slightly moistened on one edge, they will automatically stick. But, if there is nothing to wet them with, they obviously won’t.

How do you make a sticky shot glass rim?

This is done with syrup. You can use a premade simple syrup or make your own at home. You can also use honey, maple syrup, agave nectar, and glucose. Which you use depends on what you have and the flavor of your shots.

More Delicious Drinks

• Mexican Margarita
• Watermelon Margarita
• Fruit Punch