This Easy Pink Starburst Cocktail is a fun and fruity drink that tastes just like the candy! With sweet flavors of watermelon and citrus, it’s perfect for parties or a cozy night in.
Mixing it is a breeze! Just shake together some simple ingredients and pour it over ice. Trust me, your friends will love it—just make sure to keep a stash of candy nearby for garnish! 🍬
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: A neutral spirit works best here for a clean taste. You can swap it for flavored vodka like vanilla if you prefer something sweeter.
Watermelon Schnapps: This gives a fruity kick. If you can’t find it, use any watermelon-flavored liqueur or a splash of watermelon juice mixed with a bit more simple syrup.
Cranberry Juice: Regular cranberry juice adds tartness. You could also use cranberry-pomegranate for a sweeter flavor, or even a mix of cranberry and lemonade for a refreshing twist.
Simple Syrup: Making your own is easy! Just mix equal parts sugar and water and heat until dissolved. You can also substitute agave nectar or honey if you’re looking for a healthier option.
Fresh Lime Juice: Fresh juice gives the best flavor. But if you don’t have fresh limes, bottled lime juice will work in a pinch.
How Do You Get the Perfect Sugar Rim on Your Glass?
Rimming your glass adds a fun touch and extra sweetness! Here’s how to do it easily:
- Start with a lime wedge or light syrup. Rub it around the rim of your glass to moisten it.
- Next, pour some coarse sugar or pink sanding sugar onto a small plate.
- Dip the moistened rim into the sugar, twisting the glass to coat it evenly.
- Set aside and let it dry for a minute before pouring in your cocktail.
This step makes your cocktail even more appealing and adds a delightful crunch with every sip!
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 simple syrup
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- Ice cubes
- Pink Starburst candy, for garnish
- Coarse sugar or pink sanding sugar, for rimming the glass
- Lime wedge or light syrup, for rimming the glass
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cocktail will take you about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes rimming the glass and mixing the ingredients, and then it’s just a shake away from being ready to serve! Perfect for quick gatherings or a relaxing evening at home.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Glass:
Start by preparing your glass for serving. Take a lime wedge and run it around the rim, or lightly dip the rim in simple syrup. Then, dip the rim into a plate of coarse sugar or pink sanding sugar until it’s well coated. Set it aside to dry a bit while you mix your drink.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, watermelon schnapps, cranberry juice, simple syrup, and fresh lime juice. Fill the shaker halfway with ice cubes to keep your cocktail nice and chilled. Secure the lid on the shaker tightly.
3. Shake It Up:
Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15 seconds. You want to make sure everything is well mixed and nice and cold. Feel free to have fun with it—this is the stage where you can really show off your shaking skills!
4. Strain Into the Glass:
Once you’re done shaking, remove the lid and strain the mixture into your prepared glass. You’ll see a beautiful pink drink staring back at you!
5. Garnish and Serve:
Add a piece of pink Starburst candy on the rim for that extra touch. You can even drop it in the drink for a fun surprise! Serve your cocktail immediately and be ready to enjoy those sweet, tangy flavors that bring back memories of pink Starburst candies!
Enjoy each sip and share the joy of this delicious treat with friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Liqueurs?
Absolutely! While watermelon schnapps gives a fun flavor, you can substitute it with any fruit-flavored liqueur, like peach or strawberry, for a unique twist on the cocktail.
How Can I Make This Cocktail Non-Alcoholic?
To create a non-alcoholic version, replace the vodka and schnapps with more cranberry juice and a splash of club soda for fizz. You can also add a bit of watermelon juice to keep that sweet flavor intact!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Cocktails?
Cocktails are best enjoyed fresh, so it’s not recommended to store them. However, if you have leftover mix (without ice), you can refrigerate it for up to a day. Just give it a good shake before serving again!
Can I Make This Cocktail in Batches for a Party?
Definitely! To make a larger batch, simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need. Mix everything in a pitcher and chill it. Just remember to prepare the sugar rim for each glass individually before serving!
