For starters, FAQ is short for Frequently Asked Questions. And this page is to answer questions, so you don't have to e-mail me and wait for an answer to many of the commonly asked questions about this site.
Q: Who invented the Jell-O shooter ?
A: According to The Boston Globe January 1, 1984, while in the army, Tom Lehrer, who was working for the National Security Agency, developed vodka Jell-O. This was done as a way to circumvent a restriction on alcoholic beverages on base (Jell-O is not a beverage). Knox Gelatine has a recipe for Wine Gelatine in their recipe book since at least 1934, though.
Q: Why Jell-o shooters and cocktails? Wouldn't it be easier just to make regular drinks?
A: Yeah, it probably would be easier just to mix up a few drinks, but would they be as much fun? And if you consider the average cost of a small package of Jell-o is 55 ¢ (US) and bottles of juice or mixers start at $ 2.00 (US), Jell-O is quite a bargain. Also, if you have ever spilled a cocktail on your keyboard, you know how messy and sticky they are. A Jell-O shot will just wiggle and jiggle when knocked over and not seep in between the keys on your keyboard.
Q: Why name these things after Oklahoma Bands ?
A: Why not? I could have named these things after anything, so why not after bands in a music scene that I like. Who knows maybe a few of you will not only discover some tasty shooters, but be introduced to a few cool bands as well.
Q: How much liquid do I use per package of Jell-O ?
A: Small packages of Jell-O and Knox Gelatine packets contain two tablespoons of gelatine. That will gel 2 cups of liquid. In other words, the proportions for one small box of Jell-O or one Knox packet is 2 cups of liquid. Large Boxes of Jell-O are double that, so double the amount of liquid. Gelatine will NOT set if too much liquid has been added. To be on the safe side, add a little less liquid than required, or you might wind up with alcoholic consommé.
Q: Do I need to use boiling water with Jell-O ?
A: YES! Boiling water dissolves the gelatine. Some other brands of gelatine, such as Kosher and Seaweed ones don't always require boiling water. When in doubt, read the package directions.
Q: How much alcohol can I use ?
A: Only 1/2 to 2/3 cup of the 2 cup liquid content of a batch of Jell-O shooters should be alcohol. Anymore and it might not set. The lower the proof the more alcohol you can probably jell. Before you decide to use a 1/2 Cup of Everclear in your next batch, remember when consuming Jell-O alcohol shots, you won't taste the alcohol going down, but in a few minutes you will feel it hit your bloodstream, when the gelatine dissolves in your stomach. Yeah, I know. Nag. Nag...
Q: What if I don't have all the various kinds of alcohol, can I still make these shooters?
A: Sure. You just need to make a few adjustments. You can take white Brandy, Vodka or any clear fairly flavorless liquor and add flavorings such as powdered Kool-Aid mix, extracts, coffee syrups or juices.