Timing is important here, as you want to get the drama of two separate layers with gradation between. Let the first layer set partially but not completely--if you add the blackberry layer too soon, it will muddle your color; a bit too late, and it will slide right off the bottom layer.
Delicious! Did take a bit of work, especially making a double batch. My fridge timing was closer to 2:00 hours vs 1:45, but it was a 9x13 tray. Still got the beautiful layering. I used raspberries and the result was just as yummy and visually nice. Lemons - definitely use fresh squeezed. Vodka - go cheap since the juice and sugar will take care of that. Berries - fresh is great but go frozen if you can score it cheaper. Do keep the berry puree you strain from the juice. Stir into yogurt, oatmeal, a good muffin batter, whole grain pancake batter, scoop up with a hot buttermilk biscuit... I used a pizza cutter and got cubes of different sizes. Next time I would try the trick with unflavored dental floss. And I have my leftover lemon and raspberry simple syrups in the fridge for future use, most likely to make sangria.
You know, these turned out perfect and beautiful, but the work required just wasn't worth the payout. They were very sour, but still a hit. It was just so ridiculous to put so much effort into it. They are simply an elegant jello shot, not meant for an average get together. I won't bother making them again, but it was fun to see it work out.
I made these for two bbq's. Big hit! Only issue was I couldn't get the blackberries to stay on top and look as elegant as the picture.
