This Easy Pink Starburst Cocktail is as fun as it sounds! With flavors of watermelon and a touch of sweetness, it’s like drinking candy. Perfect for parties or just a chill night in!
I love serving this bright drink in cute glasses, and my friends always smile when they take a sip. Who wouldn’t want to feel like a kid again with such a tasty treat? 🍬
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: This is the base spirit, and you can use any good-quality vodka. If you’re looking for a lower alcohol option, try using a flavored sparkling water instead of vodka for a mocktail version.
Watermelon Schnapps: This gives the cocktail its fruity flavor. If you can’t find it, options like peach schnapps or even a splash of watermelon juice could work. A good fruit liqueur is always a fun choice!
Cranberry Juice: This adds a pleasant tartness and beautiful color. If you’re avoiding sugar, go for unsweetened cranberry juice. You could also substitute with a mix of pomegranate or cherry juice for a different twist.
Lemon-Lime Soda: This adds fizz to the drink. If you prefer a healthier option, you can replace it with sparkling water for a lighter touch, or use ginger ale for a spicier flavor.
How Do I Get the Perfect Sugar Rim?
A well-done sugar rim enhances the drink’s look and flavor. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start by using simple syrup or water. This step is crucial for helping the sugar stick!
- Dip just the rim of the glass into the syrup, not the entire glass, so it looks neat.
- Immediately after, dip the rim into the pink sanding sugar, twisting slightly to ensure an even coating.
- Let them sit for a few minutes before filling them. This will help the sugar set.
Easy Pink Starburst Cocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 oz vodka
- 1 oz watermelon schnapps or watermelon flavored liqueur
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- 1/2 oz lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite or 7-Up), chilled
- Ice cubes
- Pink sanding sugar (for rimming the glass)
- Pink Starburst candies, cut in half (for garnish)
- Water or simple syrup (to help the sugar stick to the rim)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cocktail will take you about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and fun recipe that’s perfect for gatherings or whenever you want a sweet treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Glasses:
Start by preparing your glasses. Pour some water or simple syrup onto a shallow plate and dip the rim of each shot glass into it to moisten. This is important to help the sugar stick!
2. Rim with Sugar:
Next, dip the rim into pink sanding sugar to completely coat it. Set the glasses aside after this step, allowing the sugar to set on the rim.
3. Make the Cocktail:
In a cocktail shaker, add the vodka, watermelon schnapps, and cranberry juice. Fill the shaker with ice cubes and secure the lid.
4. Shake It Up:
Shake vigorously until the mixture is well chilled. This usually takes about 15-20 seconds. You want it to be super refreshing!
5. Strain and Serve:
Strain the mixture into the prepared glasses, filling them about three-quarters full. This way, you’ll have room for the fizz!
6. Add Some Fizz:
Top off each glass with a splash of chilled lemon-lime soda. This adds a lovely fizzy touch to the cocktail!
7. Garnish:
For a cute finishing touch, garnish each glass with a half piece of pink Starburst candy placed on the rim.
8. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and enjoy the sweet, fruity flavors of this fun Pink Starburst Cocktail with your friends! Cheers to tasty times!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Flavored Schnapps?
Absolutely! While watermelon schnapps is the star of this cocktail, you can experiment with other fruity schnapps like peach or raspberry for a unique twist. Just remember that the flavor will change accordingly!
How Can I Make This Cocktail Non-Alcoholic?
To make a mocktail version, simply replace the vodka and schnapps with a mix of cranberry juice and watermelon juice. You can also add some extra fruit-flavored sparkling water for the fizz!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Ingredients?
If you have leftover ingredients, store the opened schnapps and vodka in their original bottles at room temperature. Cranberry juice and lemon-lime soda should be refrigerated after opening. Use within a week for the best taste!
Can I Prepare This Cocktail in Advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can mix the vodka, schnapps, and cranberry juice ahead of time and keep it chilled in the fridge. Just add the soda and garnishes right before serving to maintain the fizz!
