This colorful, tangy cocktail is just plain fun. Bright, fizzy, and packed with sweet-sour flavor, the Sour Gummy Worm Cocktail is like a throwback to childhood—but with a grown-up twist. It’s one of those drinks that always gets a smile, especially at parties. I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I learned while perfecting the recipe: always use fresh citrus juice—it makes all the difference.
Sour Gummy Worm Cocktail
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glassware: Highball glass (or Collins glass)
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) vodka
– 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
– 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lime juice
– 1 oz (30 ml) simple syrup
– 2 oz (60 ml) club soda
– Sour gummy worms, for garnish
– Ice, for serving
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the vodka, lemon juice, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well—about 10–15 seconds—until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Fill a highball glass with ice, then strain the cocktail into the glass.
- Top with club soda and give it a gentle stir to mix.
- Drop in a few sour gummy worms for garnish. You can hook one over the rim for a playful touch.
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh lemon and lime juice—bottled just doesn’t give the same zing.
– Chill your glass in the freezer for a few minutes before pouring to keep your drink colder, longer.
– If you prefer a sweeter cocktail, swap the club soda for lemon-lime soda.
– Want it less sweet? Cut the simple syrup down to ½ oz (15 ml), or use a natural sweetener like agave or stevia.
– For a sugar-free version, look for sugar-free gummy worms and use a diet soda.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the vodka, citrus juices, and syrup ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day. Just wait to add the soda and ice until serving so it stays fizzy and fresh.
Storage
If you have leftover mixed base (without soda), keep it sealed in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Once the drink is assembled, it’s best enjoyed right away. Gummy worms will start to dissolve if they sit in the drink too long—so don’t add them until you’re ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
This drink is made for fun gatherings—think game night, backyard BBQs, or themed parties. I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner cocktails, especially during Halloween or summer get-togethers. It’s vibrant, refreshing, and always a conversation starter.
Pair it with:
– Fresh fruit salad – the natural sweetness of the fruit highlights the drink’s citrus notes.
– Grilled chicken skewers – the smokiness contrasts nicely with the tart cocktail.
– A creamy cheese board – something about the tangy drink and rich cheese is just spot-on.
Variations to Try
Sour Gummy Worm Margarita
– Swap vodka for tequila
– Add ½ oz (15 ml) triple sec
– Serve over ice with a lime wedge and gummy worm garnish
Sour Gummy Worm Punch
– Combine 1 cup (240 ml) white rum, 1 cup (240 ml) pineapple juice, 1 cup (240 ml) orange juice, and a splash of grenadine
– Stir in a handful of gummy worms and serve over ice in a punch bowl
Sour Gummy Worm Martini
– Shake 2 oz (60 ml) vodka with 1 oz (30 ml) sour mix and ½ oz (15 ml) blue curaçao
– Strain into a martini glass and garnish with gummy worms
Virgin Version (Non-Alcoholic)
– Mix 1 oz (30 ml) lemon juice, 1 oz (30 ml) lime juice, 1 oz (30 ml) simple syrup, and 2 oz (60 ml) club soda
– Garnish with gummy worms—kids love it!
Substitutions
– Vodka: Try white rum or tequila for a twist
– Club soda: Lemon-lime soda makes it sweeter, tonic water adds a slight bitterness
– Simple syrup: Use honey syrup or agave for a natural option
– Gummy worms: Any sour gummy candy will do—rings, bears, or even sour belts
Common Questions
Can I make a big batch?
Yes! Multiply the base ingredients and mix in a pitcher. Add soda and ice just before serving.
Is it too sweet?
It can be if you don’t balance it. Use fresh citrus and don’t overdo the syrup.
Can I skip the alcohol?
Absolutely. The virgin version is just as fun and flavorful.
Can I use bottled juice?
You can, but fresh is much better. The flavor really pops with fresh lemon and lime.
How long do the gummy worms last?
They’ll hold up for a few hours, but they’ll start to break down if left too long. Add them just before serving.
This cocktail’s fruity punch and playful vibe make it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want something fun and fizzy to sip on a sunny day, this drink brings the flavor—and the nostalgia.
