This Pink Starburst Cocktail is a fun and fruity drink that’s sure to make you smile! With flavors of strawberry and citrus, it’s like enjoying candy in a glass.
Mixing this drink is a breeze. Just shake up vodka, pink lemonade, and a splash of soda, and voilà! Perfect for parties or a cozy night in. Cheers to sweet sips! 🍹
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: A smooth vodka makes for a great base. If you’re looking to keep it lighter, try a flavored vodka like citrus or berry. For non-alcoholic options, use a lemonade base without vodka.
Pink Lemonade: You can use homemade pink lemonade for a fresh taste. If you don’t have pink lemonade, regular lemonade with a splash of cranberry juice can work. It gives the same sweet touch!
Triple Sec: This orange liqueur adds depth. If you don’t have it, you could also use another citrus liqueur like Cointreau. For a non-alcoholic substitute, try orange juice or omit it altogether.
Club Soda or Lemon-Lime Soda: This adds fizz. If you prefer a sweeter drink, then lemon-lime soda is the way to go. You can skip it if you want a straightforward cocktail.
How Do I Perfectly Rim My Glass for this Cocktail?
Rimming your glass with sugar not only adds a decorative touch but also enhances the flavor. Here’s how to do it just right:
- Start by cutting a lemon or lime wedge. Run it around the rim of your glass to moisten it.
- Pour coarse sugar or pink sanding sugar onto a plate.
- Dip the moistened rim of the glass into the sugar. Make sure to cover it evenly.
- Gently shake off excess sugar before filling the glass with ice and your drink.
This little extra step makes your cocktail feel special and fun!
Refreshing Pink Starburst Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 oz vodka (preferably a smooth, clean-tasting brand)
- 1 oz pink lemonade (fresh or store-bought)
- 1/2 oz triple sec or another orange liqueur
- Splash of club soda or lemon-lime soda (optional for fizz)
- Ice cubes
- Pink Starburst candy, cut into small pieces (for garnish and rimming)
- Coarse sugar or pink sanding sugar (for rimming the glass)
- Lemon or lime wedge (for rimming)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing cocktail takes about 5-10 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy drink that’s perfect for parties or cozy nights in with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Glass:
Start by taking a lemon or lime wedge and rubbing it around the rim of your glass. This will help the sugar stick.
2. Rim the Glass:
Next, pour some coarse sugar or pink sanding sugar onto a small plate. Dip the rim of your glass into the sugar, coating it evenly. Set the glass aside while you make the cocktail!
3. Mix the Cocktail:
Grab a cocktail shaker and fill it with ice cubes. Add the vodka, pink lemonade, and triple sec to the shaker. Put the lid on and shake well for about 15 seconds, until chilled.
4. Pour and Serve:
Strain the mixture into your prepared glass filled with fresh ice. If you like some fizz, add a splash of club soda or lemon-lime soda on top.
5. Garnish and Enjoy:
To finish it off, garnish your cocktail by placing a small piece of pink Starburst candy on the rim or serve a few pieces on the side. Serve immediately and enjoy your sweet, candy-inspired concoction!
This Pink Starburst Cocktail is sure to delight with its sweet flavors and beautiful pink hue. Perfect for any fun gathering or celebration! Cheers! 🍹
FAQ for Pink Starburst Cocktail
Can I Use Different Types of Vodka?
Absolutely! While a smooth, clean-tasting vodka works best, you can experiment with flavored vodkas (like berry or citrus) for an extra kick. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor profile.
What if I Don’t Have Triple Sec?
No problem! If you don’t have triple sec, you can substitute it with another orange liqueur like Cointreau, or even use orange juice for a non-alcoholic option. Just adjust the sweetness as needed!
How Can I Make This Non-Alcoholic?
You can easily make a mocktail version by omitting the vodka and triple sec. Use more pink lemonade, and add soda for fizz. Garnish with Pink Starburst candy for the full effect!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftover mixed drink (without ice), store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just be aware that the freshness might decline, and the fizzy soda won’t be as bubbly. Re-mix with fresh ice for the best flavor!
