once upon a jelly time
in a Midwestern suburb not so far from anywhere, two sisters with a culinary bend and unresolved OCD issues gentrified the jello shot. With classic cocktails as inspiration, they created simple recipes which could be recreated with ingredients readily available in any supermarket. Word about the jellies spread quickly. The blog launched in August 2009 as a vehicle to update friends and fans. The blog also caught the eye of Running Press, a division of Perseus books. A book deal followed shortly after the blog's launch.
Since its inception, millions have visited the Jelly Shot Test Kitchen blog for the best in beautiful, original, genteel, cocktail-inspired jellies and gelatin desserts. Now in its sixth year of operations, Jelly Shot Test Kitchen continues to push the gelatin envelope with innovative recipes, as well as new techniques for preparation and inspired presentation.
in a Midwestern suburb not so far from anywhere, two sisters with a culinary bend and unresolved OCD issues gentrified the jello shot. With classic cocktails as inspiration, they created simple recipes which could be recreated with ingredients readily available in any supermarket. Word about the jellies spread quickly. The blog launched in August 2009 as a vehicle to update friends and fans. The blog also caught the eye of Running Press, a division of Perseus books. A book deal followed shortly after the blog's launch.
Since its inception, millions have visited the Jelly Shot Test Kitchen blog for the best in beautiful, original, genteel, cocktail-inspired jellies and gelatin desserts. Now in its sixth year of operations, Jelly Shot Test Kitchen continues to push the gelatin envelope with innovative recipes, as well as new techniques for preparation and inspired presentation.
we've been featured
in numerous online and print publications, including: The Wall Street Journal; Vogue Magazine; Martha Stewart Weddings; Rachael Ray Everyday; Glamour; Brides magazine and many many more.
in numerous online and print publications, including: The Wall Street Journal; Vogue Magazine; Martha Stewart Weddings; Rachael Ray Everyday; Glamour; Brides magazine and many many more.
our recipe book
self-titled, "Jelly Shot Test Kitchen - Jelling Classic Cocktails One Drink at a Time," was released by Running Press in 2011. The book is available on Amazon, and in bookstores everywhere. The book focuses on classic cocktail inspired jellies, made with real cocktail ingredients. The book also includes a brief history of jelly shots, and innovative gelatin techniques for the home jelly shot maker.
self-titled, "Jelly Shot Test Kitchen - Jelling Classic Cocktails One Drink at a Time," was released by Running Press in 2011. The book is available on Amazon, and in bookstores everywhere. The book focuses on classic cocktail inspired jellies, made with real cocktail ingredients. The book also includes a brief history of jelly shots, and innovative gelatin techniques for the home jelly shot maker.
frequently asked questions:
1 What is a Jelly Shot, anyway?
Remember Jello-Shots - the dixie cups filled with Jell-O brand gelatin, strong spirits and whipped cream? Of course you do . . . Jelly Shots are classic cocktails translated into gelatin form, i.e. a grown-up version of the Jell-O Shot (sans Dixie cups, of course!). The hallmarks of a Jelly Shot include: a flavor true to the cocktail inspiration and a free-spirited jiggly form that makes them a delight to devour.
2 Why Jelly Shots?
Why Not? Who doesn't love the fun of a jiggling cocktail?
3 Are Jelly Shots easy to make? Do I need special ingredients?
Jelly Shots are surprisingly simple to make. Many of our recipes can be completed in 15 minutes or less (not including setting time, of course). The ingredients – unflavored gelatin, fruit juices, mixers and liquor – are available in most supermarkets and liquor stores in the U.S. Jelly Chefs in other regions have had success with other brands and types of gelatin, including sheet gelatin, in amounts based on the volume of the recipe. Gelling strength may differ between brands/types, so be sure to check the volume of the recipe versus the package directions for your gelatin if you are using varieties of gelatin than the Knox we so often rely upon.
4 Do I need fancy equipment to make Jelly Shots?
If you are in possession of a saucepan, a cake pan and a sharp knife, you are well on your way to a gorgeous batch of Jelly Shots. That said, Jelly Shots can just as easily step it up to the next level, utilizing layering, molds, and other techniques.
5 Is it appropriate to toast fellow diners with a Jelly Shot?
Yes, of course! Toasting has a long tradition and is a mark of respect to host and guests. Not sure what to do? Grasp your jelly shot between thumb and forefinger, and either "clink" it with your neighbor's shot as if it were a glass of champagne or simply raise an "air toast" with appropriate salutation (e.g. cheers, salut, chin chin). Note that in some cultures it is important to make direct eye contact when raising your glass, errr . . . cube, that is. The same rules apply with Jelly Shots.
6 Where can I buy a Jelly Shot Test Kitchen recipe book?
The Jelly Shot Test Kitchen recipe book was released by Running Press, a division of Perseus Books, in May 2011. The book contains 60+ Jelly Shot reinterpretations of your favorite classic cocktails, as well as several Jelly Shot "mocktails", tons of photos, and step-by-step instructions for some very swanky and advanced jelly shot techniques. The book may be purchased on Amazon.com (as well as your local bookstore).
7 What's next for Jelly Shot Test Kitchen?
We're getting ready to gel up more fun than ever before. Several other related projects are also in the works, so stay tuned!
8 Where can I find Jelly Shot recipes NOW?!
A quick visit to the JSTK Recipes Page will provide many options. Additionally, one can now search the recipe database by alcohol or theme via the dropdowns on our navigation bar.
9 Does Jelly Shot Test Kitchen cater ready-made Jelly Shots?
Unfortunately, Jelly Shot Test Kitchen does not have access to a commercial kitchen or the other necessary accoutrements, licensing, etc. to produce Jelly Shots for sale. However, lots of simple and easy Jelly Shot recipes are posted on the blog's Recipes page and the Tips page has helpful hints to assist you in your jelly making endeavors . . .
10 Can I serve Jelly Shots in a paper cup?
Well, yes, technically there is no reason why you couldn't, but after all, we just got them OUT of the Dixie cup . . . so why not shake it up and try slicing your Jelly Shots "jiggler" style?
