The Bullfrog is a bold, citrusy cocktail with a pop of color and a serious kick. It’s one of those drinks that brings energy to the table—whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a backyard get-together. The mix of vodka, blue Curaçao, sour mix, and lemon-lime soda creates a sweet-tart balance that goes down a little too easily. I’ve made this drink countless times—here’s a tip I learned while perfecting it: chill your glass before pouring for a longer-lasting crispness.
Bullfrog
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glassware: Highball glass or mason jar
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) vodka
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) blue Curaçao
– 1 oz (30 ml) sour mix
– Lemon-lime soda, to top up (about 3–4 oz / 90–120 ml)
– Ice cubes, as needed
– Optional garnish: Lime slice or fresh mint sprig
Make-Ahead Note
You can pre-mix the vodka, Curaçao, and sour mix and keep it chilled in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just add soda and ice when ready to serve.
How to Make It
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Pour in the vodka, blue Curaçao, and sour mix.
- Shake well—about 10–15 seconds—until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Fill a highball glass with fresh ice. Strain the shaken mix into the glass.
- Top off with lemon-lime soda. Give it a gentle stir to combine.
- Garnish with a lime slice or a sprig of mint for a fresh finish.
Tips & Tricks
– Chill your glass ahead of time—just pop it in the freezer for 10 minutes.
– Use freshly squeezed lime juice in your sour mix for brighter flavor.
– Want a less sweet version? Swap soda for sparkling water and add a splash of lime juice.
Substitutions
– No blue Curaçao? Try green melon liqueur for a fruitier take.
– No vodka? White rum gives it a tropical twist.
– Watching sugar? Use diet lemon-lime soda or unsweetened sparkling water.
What It Tastes Like
The Bullfrog is citrusy and refreshing with a sweet edge, thanks to the soda and Curaçao. The vodka stays in the background, letting the bright flavors shine. It’s fizzy, slightly tart, and seriously easy to drink. I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-work cocktails—this one always hits the spot when I’m winding down on a warm evening.
Food Pairings
Pair it with light, flavorful dishes that let the drink shine:
Spicy Appetizers
Think jalapeño poppers or spicy wings. The sweet-citrus combo cools down the heat.
Grilled Shrimp or Fish Tacos
The smoky char from the grill plays nicely with the drink’s zesty, fruity notes.
Crisp Salads
A fresh green salad with vinaigrette or citrus dressing echoes the drink’s brightness.
Storage
If you’re batching for a party, mix the alcohol and sour mix ahead of time and store in the fridge. Add soda and ice just before serving to keep it fizzy and fresh.
Variations to Try
Green Frog
– Replace blue Curaçao with green melon liqueur
– Add a few cucumber slices for a cool, garden-fresh twist
Berry Bullfrog
– Add a splash of raspberry syrup or muddled fresh berries
– Mix with the base before topping with soda
Tropical Bullfrog
– Use coconut rum instead of vodka
– Add a splash of pineapple juice for island vibes
Non-Alcoholic Version
– Use non-alcoholic blue Curaçao syrup
– Mix with lemon-lime soda and a splash of sour mix
– Serve over ice with lime—fun and fizzy, no booze needed
Bartender Tips
- Balance is key—don’t go overboard on the sour mix or soda. Taste as you go.
- Use clear ice cubes if you want that Instagram-worthy look.
- For parties, serve in a clear pitcher or drink dispenser to show off the color.
Q&A
Can I make a big batch of Bullfrog?
Yes! Just multiply the ingredients. Mix vodka, Curaçao, and sour mix in advance. Add soda and ice right before serving.
Is it just a summer drink?
It shines in warm weather but works year-round—especially for parties or game nights.
What’s the best vodka to use?
Any decent mid-range vodka will do. A smoother one makes a difference, but the flavors are bold enough to mask most imperfections.
Can I cut down on sugar?
Absolutely. Use diet soda or sparkling water. You’ll still get the citrusy zing without the sugar rush.
How do I make it look fancy?
Garnish with lime, mint, or even edible flowers. Serve in a chilled glass for extra style points.
This cocktail’s got personality—bright, bold, and a little playful. Whether you’re new to mixing drinks or a seasoned home bartender, the Bullfrog is a fun, easy recipe that always impresses. Try one variation or two, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to.
