Sweet, bright, and a little nostalgic-the Bubblegum Shooter is a quick and fun cocktail that tastes just like the name suggests. With its candy-like flavor and eye-catching color, this playful drink is perfect for parties or whenever you want to serve something a little unexpected. I’ve made this drink countless times-especially for birthday parties and game nights-and it always gets a smile.
Bubblegum Shooter
Let’s walk through how to make it, how to tweak it to your taste, and what to serve alongside it.
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 shot (easily scaled up)
Ingredients
– 1 oz (30 ml) vodka – use a smooth, neutral vodka for best results
– 1 oz (30 ml) banana liqueur – brings that sweet, fruity base
– 1 oz (30 ml) blue curaçao – adds citrus notes and a vibrant blue hue
– 1 dash grenadine – just a splash for color and sweetness
– Ice – about 1 cup, for shaking
Optional: Chill your shot glasses ahead of time for extra refreshment.
Equipment
– Cocktail shaker
– Shot glass (or a small cocktail glass)
– Strainer
Method
- Fill your cocktail shaker halfway with fresh ice.
- Pour in the vodka, banana liqueur, and blue curaçao.
- Put the lid on and give it a good shake-about 10-15 seconds-until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled shot glass.
- Gently add a dash of grenadine. It’ll sink to the bottom and create a lovely layered look.
- Serve right away and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh ice every time-reused or wet ice can water down the flavor.
– Don’t skip the shake. It chills and blends everything perfectly.
– If you’re making a batch for a group, mix a larger amount and keep it chilled in the fridge-just give it a shake with ice before serving.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the vodka, banana liqueur, and blue curaçao together ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a few hours. Wait to shake with ice and add the grenadine until just before serving for the freshest flavor and color.
Substitutions
If you’re missing an ingredient or want to switch things up, try these:
– Vodka: Swap for white rum for a slightly sweeter base.
– Banana liqueur: Try strawberry or peach liqueur for a different fruity twist.
– Blue curaçao: Triple sec works too-your drink won’t be blue, but it’ll still taste great.
– Grenadine: A splash of raspberry syrup or cranberry juice can work in a pinch.
Flavor & What to Expect
This drink tastes just like bubblegum candy-sweet, fruity, and lightly creamy. You’ll get banana and citrus up front, rounded out by the smoothness of vodka and the sweet finish of grenadine.
It’s a bold little drink, both in taste and strength. One’s just right to enjoy the flavor without overdoing it.
Serving Suggestions
This shooter is fun on its own, but it really shines when paired with the right nibbles:
- Fruit platter: Fresh berries, melon, and pineapple balance the sweetness.
- Soft cheeses: Think brie or mozzarella-mild and creamy to contrast the bold flavor.
- Chocolate treats: Brownies or truffles make it a dessert-worthy combo.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy this is as a party starter-it’s quick, colorful, and gets everyone in the mood for a good time.
Variations to Try
Feel like mixing things up? Here are a few spins on the classic Bubblegum Shooter:
Strawberry Bubblegum Shooter
– 1 oz vodka
– 1 oz strawberry liqueur
– 1 oz triple sec
– Dash of grenadine
Fruity and a little tangy-great for berry lovers.
Tropical Bubblegum Shooter
– 1 oz white rum
– 1 oz pineapple juice
– 1 oz blue curaçao
– Dash of grenadine
Tastes like a vacation in a glass.
Minty Bubblegum Shooter
– 1 oz vodka
– 1 oz mint liqueur
– 1 oz blue curaçao
– Dash of grenadine
Cool and refreshing, with a fun peppermint twist.
Non-Alcoholic Version
For a kid-friendly or alcohol-free version, shake together:
– 1 oz pineapple juice
– 1 oz strawberry juice or soda
– 1 oz lemonade
– Dash of grenadine
Serve in a shot glass or mini tumbler over ice. It’s just as fun and festive!
Helpful Tips from the Bar
– Always chill your glass-it keeps the drink crisp and refreshing.
– Don’t eyeball your pours if you can help it. A measuring jigger keeps the flavors balanced.
– Give it a good shake-you want everything cold and blended.
Common Questions
How strong is a Bubblegum Shooter?
It’s stronger than it tastes! With vodka and liqueurs, it packs a punch. Sip responsibly.
Can I make it without alcohol?
Absolutely! Use fruit juices and grenadine for a fun, mocktail version.
What’s the best occasion to serve this?
Any party, birthday, game night, or celebration where you want something playful and unexpected.
Why is it called a Bubblegum Shooter?
Because it tastes just like bubblegum! The mix of banana and citrus liqueurs plus grenadine nails that sweet, nostalgic flavor.
How do I make it less sweet?
Use less grenadine or swap banana liqueur for something more neutral like peach schnapps.
Can I make a big batch?
Yes! Just scale up the ingredients, mix in a pitcher, and shake individual servings with ice before pouring.
Final Thoughts
The Bubblegum Shooter is one of those drinks that’s just plain fun to make and share. Whether you’re throwing a party or just want to try something different, it’s a sweet little shot that never fails to impress.
Try it your way, play with the flavors, and don’t forget to have fun with it. Cheers!
