There’s something magical about a drink that’s as beautiful as it is delicious-and the Rainbow Cocktail fits the bill perfectly. With its stunning layers of color and fruity, refreshing taste, it’s a showstopper every time. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it never fails to impress. Whether you’re mixing one up for a summer party or just want to treat yourself to something special, this cocktail brings a little joy to every glass.
Rainbow
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glassware: Highball glass (or any tall, clear glass to show off those layers)
Ingredients
– 1/2 oz (15 ml) grenadine
– 2 oz (60 ml) orange juice (fresh is best)
– 1 oz (30 ml) vodka
– 1/2 oz (15 ml) Blue Curaçao
How to Make It
- Start with the grenadine. Pour it into the bottom of your glass. It’s heavy, so it’ll naturally settle to the bottom and form your first layer.
- Next up: orange juice. Slowly pour it over the back of a spoon, letting it gently float on top of the grenadine. This creates that gorgeous second layer. Take your time here-rushing can mix the colors.
- Add the vodka. Again, pour slowly over the spoon so it rests above the orange juice. You’ll start to see those layers really come together.
- Finish with Blue Curaçao. Carefully layer it on top using the same spoon technique. The result? A vibrant, rainbow-like cocktail that looks almost too pretty to drink-but trust me, you’ll want to.
Tips for Success
– Chill your glass first. It helps keep the layers from mixing too quickly.
– Pour slowly. Use the back of a spoon and take your time-this step is key to keeping the layers separate.
– Use fresh juice. Fresh-squeezed orange juice gives a cleaner, brighter flavor and really makes a difference.
Ingredient Swaps
– No vodka? Try white rum for a sweeter, tropical twist.
– Don’t have orange juice? Pineapple juice works beautifully and adds a vacation-vibe.
– Want a different color scheme? Crème de Violette or raspberry syrup can swap in for Blue Curaçao or grenadine.
Make-Ahead and Storage
This cocktail’s best made fresh, right before serving. The layers look their best for about 10-15 minutes before they start to blend. If you want to prep ahead, you can chill your ingredients and glassware in advance.
Serving Suggestions
This is the kind of drink that shines at celebrations-birthdays, brunches, summer barbecues. I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner cocktails, and this one always steals the spotlight. Want to dress it up even more? Garnish with a slice of orange or a cherry on top.
Food Pairings
– Grilled shrimp or ceviche: The cocktail’s fruity notes complement light seafood dishes.
– Spicy bites: Jalapeño poppers or spicy wings balance beautifully with the drink’s sweetness.
– Fresh fruit: Pineapple or mango slices echo the tropical flavors and make for a refreshing snack.
Technique Tips
– Layering 101: The trick is to pour each liquid slowly and in the right order-from heaviest (like grenadine) to lightest (like Blue Curaçao). This is all about the density of each ingredient.
– Back of the spoon: This old bartender trick helps slow the pour and guide the liquid onto the layer below without mixing them.
Fun Variations to Try
Sunset Bliss
– Swap grenadine for raspberry syrup
– Use peach schnapps instead of Blue Curaçao
– A softer, fruitier twist with the same beautiful look
Tropical Dream
– Use coconut rum instead of vodka
– Add a splash of pineapple juice before the orange juice
– Tastes like a beach vacation in a glass
Forest Rain
– Use mint liqueur in place of grenadine
– Lemonade instead of orange juice
– Refreshing and cool with a minty finish
Non-Alcoholic Rainbow (Virgin Rainbow)
Want to make this fun and colorful drink without the alcohol? You can! Use fruit juices and syrups instead:
– Start with grenadine
– Add orange or pineapple juice
– Then layer blueberry syrup or a blue sports drink
– You still get those beautiful layers and fruity flavors-great for kids or anyone skipping alcohol
Common Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients and chill everything, but layer it fresh for best results. The colors blend over time.
Can I use a different glass?
Any clear glass works, but tall ones like a highball show off the layers best.
What keeps the layers from mixing?
It’s all about density. Heavier liquids (like grenadine) sink, while lighter ones (like Blue Curaçao) float.
Is it hard to layer drinks like this?
Not at all-it just takes a little patience and the spoon trick. After a couple tries, you’ll get the hang of it.
How can I make it healthier?
Use fresh juice, skip added sugar, or try a lighter alcohol. Or go for the non-alcoholic version!
Can I customize the colors?
Absolutely! Play around with different juices and syrups to create your own rainbow. It’s a fun way to experiment with flavor and presentation.
There’s just something about sipping a Rainbow Cocktail that feels like a little celebration in a glass. Whether you’re trying the classic version or putting your own spin on it, it’s a drink that’s as fun to make as it is to enjoy. Cheers!
