This glowing, fruity cocktail is a showstopper at parties and perfect for summer nights with friends. Aurora Jungle Juice blends tropical flavors with a fun twist-it lights up under black light! It’s easy to make in big batches, totally customizable, and always gets people talking. I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip: chill everything ahead of time so it’s icy-cold and super refreshing when served.
Aurora Jungle Juice
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 (easily multiplied for a crowd)
Ingredients
- 2 oz (60 ml) vodka
- 1 oz (30 ml) peach schnapps
- 1 oz (30 ml) orange juice (fresh-squeezed if you’ve got it)
- 1 oz (30 ml) pink lemonade concentrate, thawed
- Tonic water – enough to fill the glass halfway
- Fruit punch – equal amount to tonic water
- Ice – enough to fill the glass
Equipment:
- Highball glass (or a pitcher if making a large batch)
- Bar spoon or long spoon for stirring
- Measuring jigger or shot glass
Method
- Fill your glass with ice-go all the way to the top so it stays cold.
- Pour in the vodka and peach schnapps.
- Add the orange juice and pink lemonade concentrate.
- Top off the glass with half tonic water and half fruit punch. If you’re making a big batch, use equal parts of each to keep it balanced.
- Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
- Serve under a black light to watch it glow-it’s the quinine in tonic water that creates that neon effect.
Tips & Tricks
- Chill all your ingredients beforehand-no one likes a warm cocktail.
- Use fresh juices when possible. It really brightens the flavor.
- Balance it to your taste: like it less sweet? Use more tonic and a splash of soda water. Want it stronger? Add an extra half ounce of vodka.
- Keep the glow going: serve in clear cups or glasses and keep a black light nearby.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix everything except the alcohol and ice a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Right before serving, stir in the vodka and schnapps, then pour over ice. This keeps the drink fresh and flavorful.
Storage
If you have leftovers (rare, but it happens), store in the fridge for up to 2 days. The glow effect fades if it’s not under a black light, but the flavor holds up. Stir before serving again.
Serving Suggestions
Aurora Jungle Juice is all about fun, so serve it with playful, party-ready snacks.
- Grilled skewers: chicken, shrimp, or veggies with a smoky char pair perfectly with the fruity drink.
- Spicy bites: jalapeño poppers or buffalo wings add a spicy kick that balances the sweetness.
- Tropical fruit salad: mango, pineapple, kiwi, and berries echo the flavors in the drink and keep things fresh.
Recipe Variations
Berry Blast Aurora
- Add: a handful of fresh or frozen berries
- Tip: Muddle them in the glass or pitcher before adding the rest for a juicy, berry-forward twist
Tropical Sunset Aurora
- Swap: fruit punch for mango and passion fruit juice
- Tip: Layer the juices over ice and add tonic last to get a pretty gradient look
Arctic Aurora
- Add: a splash of blue curaçao
- Tip: Pour it gently at the end and stir slightly for a cool swirl effect
Non-Alcoholic Glow Juice
- Replace: vodka and schnapps with extra fruit punch or lemon-lime soda
- Still glows: as long as you keep the tonic water in!
Common Questions
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Absolutely! This drink was made for sharing. Mix it in a punch bowl or drink dispenser. Just add the ice last so it doesn’t water down too soon.
What makes it glow?
Tonic water contains quinine, which fluoresces under black light. That’s what gives it the magical glow.
Can I use different juices?
Totally. Try cranberry, pomegranate, mango, or pineapple. Just keep the balance between tart and sweet.
How long will it glow?
It’ll glow as long as it’s under a black light. The glow doesn’t fade unless the light goes off.
Is it very sweet?
It’s definitely on the sweet side, but you can tone it down by using less fruit punch or swapping in soda water.
How can I make it extra festive?
Try adding edible glitter, glow-in-the-dark straws, or fruit-shaped ice cubes. I once served this with neon cocktail umbrellas-it was a hit!
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio. It’s simple, festive, and always gets people asking for the recipe. Whether you’re throwing a big bash or just want a fun drink to enjoy with friends, Aurora Jungle Juice is a glowing good time in a glass.
