Sweet, sassy, and sparkling with flavor—this Pink Starburst Sparkler is the cocktail you didn’t know you needed. Think vibrant pink citrus meets berry bliss, topped off with fizzy tonic and a hint of candy magic. Whether you go for the classic gin version or infuse your spirits with actual Starbursts (yes, really), this drink is a total party in a glass.
Ingredients
Cocktail Base:
- 1.5 oz gin (or vodka for a smoother finish)
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz grenadine (for that hot pink punch)
- 0.5 oz raspberry or strawberry syrup
- Tonic water (to top off and add sparkle)
- Ice cubes
Optional Candy-Infused Twist:
- Soak 3–4 pink Starbursts in 2 oz gin or vodka overnight
- Strain before using—the result is a grown-up candy dream come true!
Garnish:
- Lemon twist
- Gummy candy skewer or mini Starbursts
- Edible glitter or colored sugar rim (for maximum drama, of course)
Instructions
1. Rim the Glass (Optional but Highly Recommended):
Rub a lemon wedge around the rim and dip into colored sugar or edible glitter for ✨extra sparkle.
2. Shake the Base:
In a cocktail shaker, combine gin/vodka, lemon juice, grenadine, and berry syrup with ice.
Shake for 15–20 seconds until chilled.
3. Pour & Sparkle:
Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
Top off with tonic water until bubbly and bright.
4. Garnish & Serve:
Add your lemon twist and candy garnish. Sip and feel the sparkle!
Notes
- The Starburst infusion is a total game changer—start it the night before for best results.
- Want it sweeter? Add a dash more grenadine or syrup.
- Like it fizzier? Use club soda instead of tonic for a lighter feel.
Details
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Infusion Time: Optional 8 hours
Total Time: 5–10 minutes
Yield: 1 serving
Category: Cocktails
Method: Shaken
Cuisine: American, Fun Fusion
Diet: Vegetarian
Keywords: pink cocktail, starburst cocktail, candy drink, girly cocktail, gin pink drink, vodka tonic twist
Equipment:
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger or shot glass
- Martini or highball glass
- Strainer
- Candy skewers or mini picks (for garnish)
Nutrition (Per Serving, without infusion)
Serving Size: 1 cocktail
Calories: ~220
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 10mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Carbs: 22g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Helpful Tips
- Chill your tonic water ahead of time so it keeps the fizz longer.
- Want to batch it for a party? Mix the base (without tonic) in a pitcher and top off each glass with bubbles just before serving.
- For extra sparkle, stir in edible shimmer or serve under twinkle lights—trust me, it’s a vibe!
Conservation and Storage
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, but you can mix the base ingredients (minus tonic and ice) and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake before serving and add the bubbly topper just before drinking.
Substitutions and Variations
- Vodka instead of gin: for a smoother, cleaner flavor
- Triple sec or limoncello instead of berry syrup for a citrusy twist
- Soda water for a lighter finish
- Mocktail version: Replace spirits with pink lemonade and use soda water to top—still fabulous and fun!
Storage Instructions
- Store the candy-infused liquor in a sealed jar or bottle in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Prepared cocktail (without tonic) can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day. Shake before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Starburst infusion taste like?
It’s sweet, fruity, and nostalgic—like a sip of your childhood with a grown-up wink!
Can I use soda instead of tonic?
Absolutely! Lemon-lime soda or even sparkling lemonade works great here.
How long does it take for the candy to infuse?
At least 4–6 hours, but overnight is best for bold flavor.
Can I make this in a large batch?
Yes! Multiply the ingredients, shake the base, and top with tonic per glass.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a cocktail that’s bold, sweet, and undeniably fun, the Pink Starburst Sparkler is calling your name. It’s got sparkle, it’s got sass, and it’s bursting (literally!) with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party or just channeling your inner cocktail artist, this drink is sure to shine.
💬 Tried it? Snap a pic, tag me on Pinterest, and let me know what twist you added! I love seeing your creations.
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Pink Starburst Sparkler – A Candy-Inspired Cocktail with a Grown-Up Kick
Description
Sweet, sassy, and sparkling with flavor—this Pink Starburst Sparkler is the cocktail you didn’t know you needed. Think vibrant pink citrus meets berry bliss, topped off with fizzy tonic and a hint of candy magic. Whether you go for the classic gin version or infuse your spirits with actual Starbursts (yes, really), this drink is a total party in a glass.
Ingredients
Cocktail Base:
-
1.5 oz gin (or vodka for a smoother finish)
-
1 oz fresh lemon juice 🍋
-
0.5 oz grenadine ❤️ (for that hot pink punch)
-
0.5 oz raspberry or strawberry syrup 🍓
-
Tonic water (to top off and add sparkle)
-
Ice cubes 🧊
Optional Candy-Infused Twist:
-
Soak 3–4 pink Starbursts in 2 oz gin or vodka overnight
-
Strain before using—the result is a grown-up candy dream come true! 😉
Garnish:
-
Lemon twist 🍋
-
Gummy candy skewer or mini Starbursts 🍬
-
Edible glitter or colored sugar rim ✨ (for maximum drama, of course)
Instructions
1. Rim the Glass (Optional but Highly Recommended):
Rub a lemon wedge around the rim and dip into colored sugar or edible glitter for ✨extra sparkle✨.
2. Shake the Base:
In a cocktail shaker, combine gin/vodka, lemon juice, grenadine, and berry syrup with ice.
Shake for 15–20 seconds until chilled.
3. Pour & Sparkle:
Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
Top off with tonic water until bubbly and bright.
4. Garnish & Serve:
Add your lemon twist and candy garnish. Sip and feel the sparkle!
Notes
The Starburst infusion is a total game changer—start it the night before for best results.
Want it sweeter? Add a dash more grenadine or syrup.
Like it fizzier? Use club soda instead of tonic for a lighter feel.