This yummy Pink Starburst Cocktail is a fun drink that tastes just like the candy! It blends sweet, fruity flavors with a hint of citrus, making it super refreshing.
I love making this drink for parties because everyone smiles when they taste it. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up—just mix, pour, and enjoy! It really brightens up any gathering! 🍹
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: Vodka is the base spirit here. If you prefer a different flavor, try using flavored vodka, like berry or citrus, for a fun twist.
Pink Lemonade Concentrate: This gives the drink its fruity flavor and pink color. If you can’t find it, mix equal parts fresh lemonade and strawberry juice as a substitute.
Triple Sec: This orange liqueur adds sweetness and depth. You can replace it with orange juice for a non-alcoholic option or use other liqueurs like Cointreau or Grand Marnier if you want more complexity.
Cranberry Juice: It’s added for a splash of color. Feel free to omit it for a lighter drink or replace it with raspberry juice for a similar effect.
Pink Sugar: Using pink sugar on the rim gives a festive touch! You can make your own by mixing regular sugar with a few drops of pink food coloring.
How Do I Make the Perfect Glass Rim?
Rimming the glass is a simple but fun step! It adds a great touch to the presentation and enhances the flavors. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by cutting a lemon or lime wedge and run it around the rim of your glass to make it sticky.
- Next, dip the rim into a small plate filled with pink sugar. Roll it gently to ensure it’s evenly coated.
- Let the glass sit upside down for a moment before pouring in your cocktail to avoid sugar falling into the drink.
This little step can impress your guests and enhance the overall experience of your Pink Starburst Cocktail!
Easy Pink Starburst Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 oz vodka
- 1 oz pink lemonade concentrate (thawed)
- 1 oz triple sec or orange liqueur
- Splash of cranberry juice (for color)
- Ice cubes
- Pink sugar or coarse sugar (for rimming the glass)
- Pink Starburst candy (for garnish)
- Lemon or lime wedge (for rimming)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cocktail recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It includes a quick glass rimming and mixing step, allowing you to enjoy your delicious drink in no time!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Glass:
Start by taking a lemon or lime wedge and rubbing it around the rim of your glass. This will make the rim sticky and help the sugar adhere. It adds a nice touch to the drink.
2. Rim the Glass:
Next, dip the moistened rim into a plate of pink sugar or coarse sugar to coat it evenly. Make sure to cover all the edges. Once done, set the glass aside, allowing the sugar to set.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
Grab a cocktail shaker and add the vodka, pink lemonade concentrate, triple sec, and a splash of cranberry juice. This mix is where the fun flavor comes from!
4. Shake it Up:
Fill the shaker with ice cubes. Now, shake it vigorously for about 15 seconds. You want the mixture to get nice and cold and well combined.
5. Pour and Strain:
Strain the cocktail mixture into the prepared glass that you set aside earlier, filling it with fresh ice. Watch as the beautiful pink color fills your glass!
6. Garnish:
To finish it off, take a pink Starburst candy and gently place it on the rim of the glass or on a cocktail pick. It’s an adorable touch that adds to the theme!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately so it’s cold and refreshing. Enjoy your sweet, fruity Pink Starburst cocktail with friends and cheers to a fabulous drink!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Pink Starburst Cocktail
Can I Use a Different Type of Alcohol?
Absolutely! If vodka isn’t your preference, you can use flavored vodka (like berry or citrus) or even a light rum. Just remember that the flavor will vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Can I Make This Cocktail Non-Alcoholic?
To make a mocktail version, simply replace the vodka and triple sec with sparkling water or lemonade. Increase the pink lemonade concentrate for sweetness, and add a splash of cranberry juice for color and flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Cocktail Ingredients?
If you have leftover ingredients, store any opened bottles of vodka or triple sec in a cool, dark place. The pink lemonade concentrate can be kept in the freezer, and once thawed, it should be used within a week. Keep the sugar mixture in an airtight container to maintain its freshness!
Can I Make This Cocktail in Bulk for a Party?
Yes! To serve a crowd, you can multiply the recipe by the number of servings you need. Mix the ingredients in a large pitcher or bowl, leave out the ice until serving, and just prepare individual glasses with the rimming and garnish right before pouring!
