If you’re looking for a fun, sweet cocktail with a bold personality and a little nostalgia built in, the Robitussin Cocktail might just surprise you. Don’t worry—there’s no actual cough syrup in it! But with its rich cherry color, candy-sweet notes, and a hint of something herbal, this drink has earned its quirky name. I’ve made this cocktail countless times for friends who are curious—or just up for something different—and it always gets people talking.
Robitussin Cocktail
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights when I want something playful but easy to whip up.
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glass: Highball or Collins
Make-ahead: You can mix the vodka and grenadine in advance and chill until ready to serve.
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) vodka
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) grenadine
– 3 oz (90 ml) lemon-lime soda (like Sprite)
– Ice (enough to fill the glass)
– 1 maraschino cherry, for garnish
Method
- Grab a highball glass and fill it with fresh ice. Cold ice helps keep the drink crisp and refreshing.
- Pour in the vodka.
- Add the grenadine. It’ll sink at first, giving a lovely red base before you stir.
- Top it off with lemon-lime soda. You’ll hear a little fizz—that’s the sound of good things happening.
- Give it a gentle stir. Don’t overdo it—you just want the flavors to mingle, not go flat.
- Drop in a maraschino cherry for a pop of color and a little extra sweetness.
Tips for the Best Robitussin Cocktail
- Chill your glass ahead of time to keep everything cooler longer.
- Use quality vodka. It doesn’t have to be top-shelf, but smoother vodka makes a noticeable difference.
- Grenadine can be sweet—if you prefer a less sugary drink, start with a little less and adjust to taste.
- Don’t skip the cherry! It’s not just for looks—it adds just the right finish to each sip.
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
Substitutions:
– Swap the vodka for gin if you like a more herbal note.
– Replace grenadine with cranberry juice for a tarter flavor and less sweetness.
– Use tonic water instead of soda for a drier, more grown-up twist.
– For a non-alcoholic version, skip the vodka and just use soda with grenadine or cranberry juice.
Fun Variations
Robitussin Martini
- Shake vodka, grenadine, and cranberry juice with ice.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with a cherry.
Robitussin Mule
- Mix vodka, grenadine, ginger beer, and a squeeze of lime in a copper mug.
- Stir gently and garnish with a lime wedge.
Robitussin Spritz
- Combine vodka, grenadine, and soda water in a highball glass with ice.
- Garnish with a lemon twist for a bubbly, lighter version.
Serving Suggestions
The Robitussin Cocktail’s bold, sweet flavor pairs best with foods that offer a little contrast or richness. Here are a few favorites:
Spicy Tacos
The cocktail’s sweetness helps balance spicy heat—try it with grilled chicken or shrimp tacos.
Cheese Board
Go for bold cheeses like aged cheddar or blue cheese. The drink’s fruity notes cut through the richness beautifully.
Grilled Shrimp
Light and savory, shrimp lets the cocktail shine without overpowering it.
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner pairings: a Robitussin Cocktail with a square of dark chocolate. The cherry notes and the bitterness of the chocolate play surprisingly well together.
Storage Notes
– If you want to prep ahead, mix the vodka and grenadine and store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
– Don’t add the soda until just before serving—it’ll lose its fizz if it sits.
– Leftover grenadine? Store it sealed in the fridge for up to a month. It’s great in other drinks too!
FAQs
Why is it called a Robitussin Cocktail?
It gets its name from its cherry-herbal flavor, which some folks think tastes a bit like the famous cough syrup. But don’t worry—it’s all about the flavor, not medicine!
Is there any actual Robitussin in it?
Nope! Just vodka, grenadine, and soda. The name is just a playful nod to the taste.
Can I make it less sweet?
Absolutely—try cutting back the grenadine or swapping it for cranberry juice.
What’s the best glass to use?
A highball glass is ideal, but a Collins glass works too.
How do I make it healthier?
Use a diet lemon-lime soda or soda water, and reduce the grenadine or use a natural pomegranate syrup.
Final Sip
The Robitussin Cocktail isn’t your everyday drink—and that’s exactly why it’s fun. Whether you’re serving it at a party or just want something a little different for your Friday night wind-down, this cocktail brings a sweet, fizzy kick with a wink of nostalgia. Try out a few variations, play with the garnishes, and make it your own. Cheers!
