A cool, crisp, and vibrant blue drink, the Titanic cocktail is as refreshing as an ocean breeze on a warm evening. With its bright citrus notes and smooth vodka base, it’s a perfect mix of sweet and tangy. Whether you’re sipping it on a summer night or serving it at a gathering, this cocktail always makes a splash.
Titanic
I’ve made this drink countless times, and one thing I’ve learned is that using fresh lemon juice really makes a difference—it brings out the citrusy brightness and balances the sweetness perfectly. Let’s get into how to make this stunning cocktail at home.
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) vodka
- 1 oz (30ml) blue curaçao
- 0.5 oz (15ml) fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz (15ml) simple syrup
- Ice cubes or crushed ice
- Ice shards (for garnish)
- Lemon twist or mint leaf (optional, for garnish)
Glass: A highball glass works best for this cocktail, allowing the vibrant blue color to shine. If you want a more elegant presentation, a martini glass is a great alternative.
How to Make a Titanic Cocktail
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the vodka, blue curaçao, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well for about 15 seconds, until the shaker feels cold.
- Strain into a glass filled with ice shards or cubes.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or a fresh mint leaf for an extra pop of flavor.
Tip: If you don’t have a shaker, just stir everything well in a glass with ice until chilled.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- You can pre-mix the vodka, blue curaçao, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a sealed jar and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- When ready to serve, just pour over ice and garnish.
- Avoid adding ice ahead of time—it will dilute the flavors.
Substitutions & Variations
Want to switch things up? Here are some easy swaps:
- Swap vodka for gin if you prefer a more botanical flavor.
- Use agave syrup instead of simple syrup for a natural sweetness.
- Try grenadine instead of blue curaçao for a sunrise effect.
Fun Variations
Icy Atlantic: Use peppermint schnapps instead of vodka for a cool, minty twist.
Sunset on the Sea: Add grenadine and orange juice, layering the grenadine under the blue curaçao mix for a striking color effect.
Virgin Titanic: Replace alcohol with blue-tinted lemonade for a refreshing, non-alcoholic version.
Best Food Pairings
This cocktail pairs beautifully with:
- Seafood – The citrusy notes complement shrimp, calamari, and grilled fish.
- Spicy appetizers – The refreshing taste helps balance spicy dishes like jalapeño poppers or spicy tuna rolls.
- Light salads – A citrus-dressed salad mirrors the fresh, zesty flavors of the drink.
I love enjoying a Titanic cocktail with a plate of fresh shrimp—it’s the perfect balance of crisp and refreshing flavors.
Pro Bartender Tips
- Chill your glass before serving to keep your cocktail colder longer.
- Use fresh lemon juice—bottled juice won’t have the same bright, zesty kick.
- Experiment with ice shapes—large chunks, crushed ice, or clear ice cubes all create different looks.
Common Questions
Can I make a Titanic cocktail without blue curaçao?
Yes! You can swap it for a non-alcoholic blue syrup or just skip the blue color altogether.
How can I make this cocktail less sweet?
Use less simple syrup or swap it for a natural sweetener like honey.
What’s the best way to get ice shards?
Freeze a thin layer of water in a tray, then break it into pieces. You can also use an ice mold for uniform shapes.
Can I prepare this for a party?
Yes! Mix everything except the ice in a large pitcher, then pour over ice when serving.
What are good garnishes for a Titanic cocktail?
Lemon twists, mint leaves, or even edible flowers add a classy touch.
This cocktail is always a hit, whether you’re making one for yourself or mixing up a batch for friends. Try out a variation, pair it with a great dish, and enjoy every sip!
