This Easy Pink Starburst Cocktail is a fun and fruity drink that tastes like candy! With its bright pink color and sweet flavors, it’s perfect for parties or a girls’ night in.
I love how simple it is to make—just mix some vodka, pink lemonade, and a splash of soda. Plus, it looks so cute in a glass! 🍹 Cheers to sweetness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: This is the base spirit for the cocktail. If you’re looking for a lighter version, try a flavored vodka, like berry or citrus, to enhance the fruity notes!
Triple Sec: This orange liqueur adds sweetness and depth. If you’re out, you can use any other orange-flavored liqueur, like Cointreau. For a non-alcoholic option, you could skip it altogether or replace it with orange juice.
Pink Lemonade: The star of the drink! Store-bought is super convenient, but you can make homemade pink lemonade using fresh lemons and a splash of cranberry juice for color. If you need a sugar-free option, look for a sugar-free lemonade mix.
Cranberry Juice: This is optional but boosts the pink color. If you want to skip it, just use more pink lemonade. Alternatively, a splash of raspberry juice can work too.
Garnish: Using pink Starburst is a fun touch! If you don’t have them, you can use any colorful candy or even fresh fruit like strawberries for a cute garnish.
How Do You Rim a Glass Perfectly?
Rimming the glass can really elevate the look of your cocktail! Here’s how to do it well:
- Start with a lemon or lime wedge—run it around the edge of the glass to moisten it.
- On a plate, spread out some granulated sugar or pink sanding sugar.
- Carefully dip the rim of the glass into the sugar, turning gently to coat evenly.
- This little step adds sweetness and makes the drink even more festive!
Easy Pink Starburst Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz triple sec or orange liqueur
- 2 oz pink lemonade (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 oz cranberry juice (optional, for extra pink color)
- Ice cubes
- Pink starburst candy (cut into small pieces or cubes) for garnish
- Granulated sugar or pink sanding sugar for rimming the glass
- Lemon or lime wedge (for rimming the glass)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cocktail is quick and easy to make! You’ll need about 5-10 minutes for preparation and mixing. It’s perfect for when you want a refreshing drink without too much fuss.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Glass:
Start by taking a lemon or lime wedge and running it around the rim of your glass. This will moisten the rim so the sugar sticks nicely. Set this aside for now.
2. Rim the Glass:
On a small plate, pour out some granulated sugar or pink sanding sugar. Dip the moistened rim of the glass into the sugar, turning it gently so that it coats evenly. This adds a sweet touch to every sip!
3. Mix the Cocktail:
In a cocktail shaker, add a handful of ice cubes. Then, pour in the vodka, triple sec (or your choice of orange liqueur), pink lemonade, and cranberry juice if you’re using it for that extra pop of color.
4. Shake It Up:
Secure the lid on your shaker and give it a good shake for about 15-20 seconds. You want it to be nicely chilled and mixed together!
5. Strain and Serve:
Carefully strain the cocktail mixture into your prepared glass filled with fresh ice cubes. Watch the beautiful pink color flow in!
6. Garnish:
Finally, garnish your drink with a small piece of pink Starburst candy on the rim or let it float gracefully inside the drink. It adds a cute touch and a little extra sweetness!
7. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and enjoy the sweet, fruity flavors of your Pink Starburst Cocktail! Perfect for any celebration or just a fun night in.
FAQ for Easy Pink Starburst Cocktail
Can I Use a Different Type of Alcohol?
Absolutely! If vodka isn’t your favorite, you can try rum or tequila for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that it will change the overall taste of the cocktail!
How Can I Make This Cocktail Non-Alcoholic?
No problem! To make a mocktail version, simply substitute the vodka and triple sec with extra pink lemonade or a splash of club soda for fizz. You can also add a little extra cranberry juice for flavor.
What Should I Do with Leftover Ingredients?
Store any unused pink lemonade and cranberry juice in the fridge for up to a week. The cut Starburst candies can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness. Just be cautious about mixing flavors if you use multiple kinds of candy!
Can I Prepare This Cocktail in Advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can mix the liquid ingredients (vodka, triple sec, lemonade, and cranberry juice) ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just shake and pour over ice when you’re ready to serve!
