1. Arrange 24 plastic shot cups (1–2 oz) on a rimmed tray for easy transfer.

2. Bring 1 cup water to a rolling boil. Pour into a bowl with the gelatin and whisk 2 minutes until fully dissolved.

3. Stir in 1 cup cold liquid: standard strength = 1/2 cup vodka + 1/2 cup cold water; stronger = 1 cup vodka; zero-proof = 1 cup chilled juice or lemon-lime soda.

4. Let the mixture cool 5 minutes so the alcohol (if using) doesn’t evaporate.

5. Divide the liquid among cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Refrigerate 30–40 minutes until slightly thickened but not set.

6. Add eyeballs: place a candy eyeball on top of each cup, or press a lychee stuffed with a blueberry into the center to float.

7. Chill 1–2 hours more, until fully set.

8. Optional: before serving, add a small dollop of whipped cream or a few drops of grenadine for a gory effect.

9. Serve cold. Keep covered and refrigerated until party time.

10. Storage: cover and refrigerate up to 3 days; do not freeze.