Paleta Shot (Mexican Candy Shot) Recipe

Let me tell you, once you try the Paleta Shot (Mexican Candy Shot), you’ll want to make it every weekend. This drink combines an amazing blend of sweet, sour, spicy, and salty flavors that will pleasantly awaken your taste buds. I first had this in a little bar in Mexico and instantly fell in love. The rim is coated in Tajín, the shot itself is fruity with a spicy twist, and it’s just so fun to serve to friends.

Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to spice up your night, this is an easy win.

What is Paleta Shot All About?

Paleta Shot is a fiery as well as sweet shot that is mostly made from tequila, inspired by the Mexican lollipops of watermelon chili that we all love best. They call it paleta, which means lollipop in Spanish, but this is a little bit of spirity liquid candy with some heat.

Well, the shot is typically termed as tequila, watermelon schnapps, lime juice, and hot sauce, and served in a Tajin rimmed glass. It is bright red and packed with flavors to go down way smoother than you think.

Ingredients

For the shot

• 1 oz tequila (silver works best)
• 1 oz watermelon schnapps (or any watermelon liqueur)
• ½ oz lime juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
• 2-3 dashes hot sauce (like Valentina or Tapatío)

For the rim

• Tajín seasoning
• Lime wedge (for wetting the rim)

Instructions

1. Run a lime wedge around the rim of your shot glass.
2. Dip the rim in Tajín till it gets completely coated.
3. In your shaker, mix tequila, watermelon schnapps, lime juice, and hot sauce.
4. Add ice and shake vigorously for about 10 seconds.
5. Strain into the prepared shot glass.
6. Cheers and enjoy!

Storage Tips

• This shot is best served fresh and cold.
• If you want to prepare this drink ahead of time, you can simply mix the liquors and keep them in the refrigerator up to one day.
• Do not rim glasses nor put ice until just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled with a slice of watermelon or some spicy tamarind candy on the side.
• Get those fun-colored shot glasses to match the mood.
• Serve as a round during a party or game night for a sweet surprise.

Pro Tips & Variations

• No watermelon schnapps, ah? Use strawberry liquor or fruit punch with a little bit of simple syrup to replace the schnapps.
• Want to make it less spicy? Just skip the hot sauce or use just a single dash.
• Popsicle Pop: Freeze your mix in some molds for a spicy boozy paleta!
• Add some Chamoy to the shaker or drizzle some inside the glass for extra tang.

FAQs

1. Is the Paleta Shot very spicy?

Not really—it has a mild kick. You can control the spice with how much hot sauce you add.

2. Any chance to make this drink non-alcoholic?

Yes! You can always use watermelon juice with a splash of lime soda instead of tequila and schnapps!

3. Does this drink have gluten?

Most tequila and hot sauces are gluten-free, but you always want to double-check that label.

4. What if I don’t have Tajín?

Mix chili powder, lime zest, and salt for last-minute rim seasoning.

Try It!

And that’s all there is to it. Super simple, super delicious, and super fun. This is Paleta Shot. Just a Mexican candy shot that sweeps sweet heat down with every sip. It is good for parties or when one wants something else. Just try it, and I bet you will be doing a second round before the night is over!