This playful cocktail is as bold in flavor as it is in name. The Toilet Bowl is a bright, blue, sweet-and-sour drink that always gets guests talking-and sipping! Don’t let the name fool you. Behind its cheeky title is a fruity, fizzy drink that’s surprisingly refreshing and perfect for parties. I’ve made this drink countless times-it’s always a hit at summer BBQs and game nights. Here’s how to make your own, with some fun twists and tips thrown in.
Toilet Bowl
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 large drink (easily scaled for a crowd)
Ingredients
– 1 oz (30 ml) Blue Curaçao – gives that vibrant blue color and orange flavor
– 1 oz (30 ml) vodka – for a clean kick
– 2 oz (60 ml) sweet and sour mix – for that tangy balance
– A splash of soda water – adds fizz
– Ice – enough to fill your glass
– Optional garnish: gummy fish, lemon slice, cocktail umbrella, or even a sour candy straw
Glassware
This drink is all about presentation. A fishbowl glass is the go-to-it plays up the theme and holds a generous pour. If you don’t have one, a large martini glass or even a mason jar will do the trick.
Method
- Chill your glass. Pop it in the freezer or fill it with ice water while you prep your ingredients. A cold glass keeps the drink crisp.
- Shake the base. In a cocktail shaker (or a mason jar with a lid), combine the Blue Curaçao, vodka, and sweet and sour mix. Add a few ice cubes and shake for about 10 seconds until well mixed and chilled.
- Build the drink. Dump the ice from your glass and fill it with fresh ice. Strain the shaken mix over the ice.
- Top with fizz. Add a splash of soda water-just enough to give it a light sparkle. Stir gently.
- Garnish and serve. This is where you can have some fun. Drop in a gummy fish, float a lemon slice, or top with a mini umbrella. Serve with a wide straw and enjoy immediately!
Tips & Tricks
– Sweetness too strong? Cut back on the sweet and sour mix and add more soda water.
– No sweet and sour mix? You can make your own by mixing equal parts lemon juice and simple syrup.
– No Blue Curaçao? Try using a blue sports drink or blue raspberry syrup for a non-alcoholic version.
– Make-ahead tip: You can pre-mix the Blue Curaçao, vodka, and sweet and sour mix in a pitcher and keep it chilled. Just add ice and soda water when serving.
Storage
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh. If you’ve premixed the base, it’ll keep in the fridge for up to 2 days-just make sure to stir before using. Don’t add soda water until you’re ready to serve to keep the fizz.
Serving Suggestions
The Toilet Bowl’s sweet and citrusy flavor makes it great with:
– Spicy snacks: Think jalapeño poppers or buffalo wings. The sweetness cuts through the heat.
– Fresh fruit: Pineapple, watermelon, or berries bring out the drink’s fruity notes.
– Salty bites: Pretzels, chips, or popcorn balance the drink’s tang.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio-it’s light, fun, and just the right amount of quirky.
Fun Variations
Tropical Toilet Bowl
– Add 1 oz (30 ml) pineapple juice and swap vodka for coconut rum.
– It’s like a beach party in a glass.
Sour Toilet Bowl
– Add an extra ½ oz (15 ml) of sweet and sour mix.
– Garnish with a lime wedge to amp up the tartness.
Virgin Toilet Bowl
– Use blue curaçao syrup instead of the liqueur.
– Replace vodka with lemon-lime soda or more sweet and sour mix.
– Still eye-catching, still tasty-just booze-free.
Common Questions
Why is it called the Toilet Bowl?
It’s all in good fun! The bright blue color and quirky garnishes make it a conversation starter.
Can I make it in a big batch?
Definitely. Multiply the ingredients and mix in a punch bowl or pitcher. Just wait to add soda water until serving.
What if I don’t like vodka?
Try white rum or silver tequila for a twist. Each one brings a different vibe to the drink.
Is it kid-friendly?
Not the original version, but the virgin version is perfect for kids or anyone skipping alcohol.
What’s a good garnish?
Gummy candies, citrus wheels, or even a sour candy straw. Have fun with it!
Final Sip
The Toilet Bowl cocktail might sound silly, but it’s seriously delicious. With its electric blue hue, fruity flavor, and fizzy finish, it’s the kind of drink that turns heads and starts conversations. Whether you stick with the classic or try one of the fun variations, this drink is sure to bring a little extra joy to your next get-together. Cheers!
