Mexican Candy Shot Recipe

What is a Mexican Candy Shot?

The Mexican Candy Shot, also known as the Paleta Shot or Mexican Lollipop Shot, is a flavorful drink inspired by classic Mexican candies. If you've ever tried those fruity Mexican lollipop candies coated in chili powder, like sandía con chile (watermelon with chili) or spicy tamarind treats, you'll know the flavors.

The exact origin isn’t super clear, but it’s believed to have been born along the U.S.-Mexico border, where Mexican and American flavors collide in the most delicious ways.

It was originally a bar favorite until it's popularity soared thanks to its sweet-spicy punch and fun presentation. Think of it as a cocktail homage to every tangy, chili-dusted treat from your childhood - with tequila.

A Shot That’s More of a Template

There’s no one “official” Mexican Candy Shot recipe. It’s more of a template, a balance of sweet, fruity liqueur (usually watermelon or mango), a good splash of tequila, and a fiery kick from hot sauce.

You’ll find versions with strawberry schnapps, lime juice, vodka instead of tequila, even spicy candy straws stuck in the glass. That’s part of the fun, customizing it to your heat tolerance and taste buds.

Mike's Spicy Spin (Chili Pepper Madness Style)

This is my bold, punchy take. We’re going big on flavor, with a touch of lime juice and chamoy for depth, a rim spiked with extra cayenne, and enough heat to make it memorable.

Let's talk about how to make a Mexican candy shot, shall we? I think this might become a new favorite. Get the shot glasses ready!

Mexican Candy Shot Ingredients - What You'll Need

The full ingredients list with measurements is listed in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.

• Silver Tequila. Use your favorite brand. You can also use vodka as a variation.
• Watermelon Schnapps. Or use mango liqueur. Watermelon Pucker is a popular brand.
• Fresh Lime Juice. Fresh is best! You can also use watermelon juice for more watermelon flavor.
• Chamoy. Optional, but it adds a nice depth. See my Homemade Chamoy Recipe for the best flavor.
• Hot Sauce. Use one with a flavor and heat level you prefer. See my Hot Sauce Recipes for many options. Cholula hot sauce is popular.
• For the Rim. Tajin and cayenne pepper.
• Ice. For shaking or chilling.
• Garnish. Lime wedges, watermelon slices, or spicy candy straws.

How to Make a Mexican Candy Shot

Rub the rim of a shot glass with a lime wedge, then dredge in a small plate dusted with Tajín and cayenne pepper.

Shake the tequila, schnapps, lijme juice, dash of hot sauce, and chamoy in a cocktail shaker with ice until chilled, then pour into prepared shot glasses.

Strain and shoot it down!

If you're looking for a larger party version, I've included exact measurements in the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

Just mix it all together and chill in the fridge until ready to serve.

Boom! Done! Your Mexican candy shot is ready to serve! Cheers, my chilihead friends! You’ve earned this one.

Perfect Pairings!

Pair your Mexican Candy Shots with these spicy bites:

• Tacos al Pastor Recipe. Sweet pineapple and bold spices match the fruity heat.
• Elote Recipe (Mexican Street Corn). Creamy, cheesy, spicy corn on the cob is a perfect balance.
• Aguachile Recipe (Mexican Shrimp Ceviche). Zesty citrus flavors and perfect for summer - with a shot.
• Spicy Mango Salsa + Chips. Double down on that fruity chili combo.
• See all of my Cinco de Mayo Recipes or Mexican Recipes for more ideas!

That's it, my friends. I hope you enjoy this Mexican candy shot recipe. Let me know if you make it. I'd love to hear how it turned out for you, and if you decided to spice it up!

Want More Cocktail Recipes?

• This Spicy Margarita Recipe is the best cocktail ever with sliced jalapenos, tequila, freshly squeezed lime juice, and agave nectar.
• Enjoy the perfect Paloma cocktail recipe, a refreshing tequila drink with fresh grapefruit.
• This refreshing Michelada recipe is a classic Mexican cocktail made with beer, Clamato juice, lime juice, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and hot sauce.