If you’re craving something sweet, fruity, and just a little nostalgic, the Swedish Fish cocktail is a fun and easy drink that brings candy-shop vibes right to your glass. It’s bright red, perfectly sweet with a hint of tartness, and garnished with—you guessed it—actual Swedish Fish candies. I’ve made this drink countless times for girls’ nights and backyard parties, and it always gets a smile. Here’s how to make it your new go-to party sipper.
Swedish Fish
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glass: Highball or mason jar
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) vodka
– 4 oz (120 ml) cranberry juice
– 1 oz (30 ml) sour mix (fresh is best—see tips below)
– A splash of grenadine (about ½ tsp)
– Swedish Fish candies, for garnish
– Ice
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Pour in the vodka and cranberry juice.
- Shake well for about 10–15 seconds, until the drink feels chilled to the touch.
- Strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
- Add the sour mix and give it a gentle stir.
- Finish with a splash of grenadine. It’ll sink a bit and give that signature red hue.
- Garnish with 2–3 Swedish Fish candies, either on a cocktail pick or right on the rim.
Tips & Tricks
– Make your own sour mix: Just combine equal parts fresh lemon juice, lime juice, and simple syrup. It’s brighter and way more flavorful than bottled versions.
– Chill your glass ahead of time for an extra-refreshing sip.
– Want it less sweet? Use unsweetened cranberry juice and cut the grenadine in half. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a sharper finish.
– Hosting a group? Mix a large batch (multiply ingredients by the number of servings) and serve it punch-style in a pitcher or punch bowl. Let guests add their own candy garnish.
Storage Notes
You can mix the vodka, cranberry juice, and sour mix up to 24 hours ahead. Store it in the fridge in a sealed container. Add ice, grenadine, and garnish just before serving so it stays fresh and vibrant.
Serving Suggestions
This sweet, fruity cocktail pairs surprisingly well with:
Cheese Boards
Try it with creamy cheeses like brie or tangy goat cheese. The richness balances the sweetness beautifully.
Seafood
Shrimp cocktail or sushi makes a great match—the drink’s tart finish complements the freshness of the fish.
Spicy Dishes
Wings, tacos, or spicy noodles? The cocktail cools things down and adds a playful twist.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the porch. It’s just the right mix of fun and flavor.
Ingredient Swaps
– Vodka: Swap for white rum for a smoother, tropical taste.
– Cranberry juice: Pomegranate juice adds a deeper flavor and color.
– Grenadine: Use raspberry syrup or cherry juice concentrate if you’re out.
Fun Variations
Tropical Swedish Fish
– Add 1 oz (30 ml) pineapple juice
– Use coconut rum instead of vodka
– Garnish with pineapple chunks and Swedish Fish
Blue Swedish Fish
– Replace grenadine with ½ oz (15 ml) blue curaçao
– Garnish with an orange slice and blue gummy candy
Spicy Swedish Fish
– Add a thin slice of jalapeño to the shaker
– Use a bit more sour mix and a tiny splash of simple syrup to balance the heat
Virgin Swedish Fish
– Skip the vodka
– Mix 4 oz (120 ml) cranberry juice, 1 oz (30 ml) sour mix, and a splash of grenadine
– Serve over ice and garnish with candy—it’s a hit at kids’ parties or baby showers!
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Mix the liquids (except grenadine) and chill. Add ice, grenadine, and garnish just before serving.
Is there a non-alcoholic version?
Absolutely. Just leave out the vodka—it’s still fruity, fun, and totally refreshing.
How do I serve this to a crowd?
Make a large batch in a pitcher or punch bowl. Let guests serve themselves and garnish their own drinks.
How can I cut the sweetness?
Use unsweetened cranberry juice, reduce the grenadine, and add a squeeze of lemon.
Are there health perks?
Cranberry juice is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, but this is definitely a treat cocktail—enjoy it in moderation.
Can I use different candies?
Sure! While Swedish Fish are the star, feel free to get creative with gummy bears or sour worms for a fun twist.
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Whether you’re throwing a party or just want something playful in your glass, the Swedish Fish cocktail is a sweet, colorful way to shake things up. It’s easy to make, fun to serve, and even more fun to drink. Cheers!
