Drunk Witch Cocktail Halloween

Shimmering and spooky with its deep purple hue and wisps of swirling magic smoke the Drunk Witch Cocktail was born from my annual Halloween gathering The night begged for something theatrical and delicious so this vibrant potion quickly stole the show It is an easy cocktail for a crowd and makes a perfect signature drink for haunted parties or a fun treat on a chilly October night

My first attempt had everyone circling the kitchen for a closer look and even the cocktail skeptics asked for seconds The dramatic swirl from the dry ice left us cackling like a coven well past midnight

Ingredients

• Vodka: Provides a clean alcoholic base that lets the other flavors and colors shine I like to use a good quality mid-shelf brand for smoothness
• Blue curaçao: Gives the cocktail its magnificent color and a hint of orange flavor Look for one with a strong blue pigment for the best visual effect
• Cranberry juice: Deepens the purple color and adds tartness Make sure it is unsweetened for balance
• Grenadine: Creates a sinking red layer that adds visual drama and sweetness Use a real pomegranate syrup if possible
• Edible glitter: Brings the magic and shimmer Only use food-grade glitter found at reputable baking supply shops
• Ice: Is essential to chill and dilute the drink for a smoother sip Use large cubes to keep things cold
• Black sugar: For the rim adds spooky sparkle and crunch If you cannot find it black sanding sugar for baking works great too
• Lemon wedge: Helps the sugar stick and adds a fresh citrus aroma
• Tiny pellet dry ice (optional): Gives that otherworldly fog effect Only use approved food-grade dry ice pieces

Instructions

Prepare the glass:

Run a lemon wedge along the rim of a chilled glass to dampen it then dip the edge in black sugar to coat This step makes the drink look extra spooky

Add the ice:

Fill the rimmed glass with large ice cubes This chills the drink and keeps the layers defined

Mix the main ingredients:

Combine vodka blue curaçao and cranberry juice in a cocktail shaker with a handful of ice Shake vigorously for about ten seconds until frosty

Pour and layer:

Strain the chilled mixture into your prepared glass making sure not to disrupt the sugar rim

Create the magic layers:

Very slowly pour the grenadine down the side of the glass so it sinks and forms a hidden red shadow beneath the purple cocktail

Add shimmer and smoke:

Sprinkle just a pinch of edible glitter on top Gently stir once to set the shimmer in motion If you want maximum Halloween drama add a safe small pellet of food-grade dry ice and watch the magical smoke swirl Serve immediately

I love the way the blue curaçao transforms the whole drink with just a splash When I created this cocktail for our neighborhood costume party the vibrant colors made even the quietest guests break into wide smiles

Storage and Leftover Tips

Once mixed this cocktail is best enjoyed right away The fresh citrus and layered look can fade over time If you need to prepare drinks in advance mix the main ingredients and keep in the fridge only adding ice and garnishes at the last minute Leftover grenadine keeps well just be sure to give it a shake before the next use

Easy Ingredient Swaps

For a lighter version swap vodka for club soda or a splash of lemonade If you do not have blue curaçao try mixing orange liqueur with a few drops of natural blue food coloring Cranberry juice can be substituted with pomegranate juice for extra tartness If you do not have black sugar use purple sanding sugar or color your own by tossing granulated sugar with activated charcoal food powder

Perfect Ways to Serve This

The Drunk Witch Cocktail glows under black light or candlelight making it ideal for a dimly lit party Serve in martini or coupe glasses for elegance or mason jars for a witchy rustic vibe Garnish with blackberries dry orange slices or a twist of lemon peel for extra flair

This vibrant spooky cocktail always dazzles at any Halloween event With simple ingredients and dramatic presentation it is guaranteed to be a party favorite

Recipe Q&A

→ What creates the purple color in this drink?

The mix of blue curaçao, cranberry juice, and grenadine together form the deep purple shade.

→ Can I skip the edible glitter?

Yes, the glitter is optional and only adds a shimmering effect. The flavor is unchanged without it.

→ What type of vodka works best?

A classic unflavored vodka is ideal, ensuring the other flavors and colors shine through.

→ How do I get the layered look?

Pour grenadine slowly along the glass edge so it sinks, forming a striking layer beneath the cocktail.

→ Is dry ice necessary for serving?

Dry ice is not required but creates a smoky, magical Halloween vibe when used safely and sparingly.