Description
This spooky layered Halloween cocktail combines grenadine, orange juice, and black vodka (or charcoal vodka) for a chilling effect. The vivid black, orange, and red layers make it the ultimate showstopper for parties. Sweet, citrusy, and hauntingly beautiful, it’s a drink that looks as good as it tastes.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz vodka
- ⅛ teaspoon food-grade activated charcoal powder (only if not using black vodka)
- 4 oz orange juice, fresh or bottled
- ½ oz grenadine syrup
- 1 gummy eyeball candy (optional, for garnish)
- Ice cubes, as needed
Instructions
- In a tall highball glass, pour grenadine until the bottom measures about ¼ inch.
- Add a handful of ice cubes to help create defined layers.
- Slowly pour in the orange juice, leaving about 1½ inches of space at the top.
- In a separate cup, stir vodka with activated charcoal powder until fully dissolved, or use black vodka directly.
- Gently pour the black vodka over the back of a spoon so it floats on top of the orange juice.
- Garnish with a gummy eyeball candy for a fun Halloween finish. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Always use food-grade activated charcoal, as other forms may not be safe for consumption.
- Activated charcoal may reduce the effectiveness of certain medications (NIH). Check labels before serving to guests.
- For a mocktail version, replace vodka with sparkling water tinted with black food coloring.
- To make shots, layer the same ingredients in shot glasses.
- Use pomegranate syrup instead of grenadine for a tarter, less sweet flavor.
- Best served fresh, since the layers start blending after 20–30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Drinks, Cocktails
- Method: Layered, No-Cook
- Cuisine: American