Thoughtfully Cocktails, Mix and Match Mini Sampler Cocktail Mixer Set
Buy Now →The Rainbow Shot is a vibrant, layered shot that looks like a mini masterpiece! Combining sweet grenadine, citrus juices, blue curaçao, vodka, and cream, this drink is as fun to make as it is to drink. With the right pouring technique, you’ll create beautifully distinct layers, making it perfect for parties, celebrations, and impressing guests!
Ingredients
- ½ oz (15ml) Grenadine
- ½ oz (15ml) Orange Juice
- ½ oz (15ml) Pineapple Juice
- ½ oz (15ml) Blue Curaçao
- ½ oz (15ml) Vodka
- ½ oz (15ml) Cream (or heavy cream)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Shot Glass
Use a clear shot glass to showcase the layered effect.
2. Layer the Grenadine
Pour ½ oz grenadine directly into the bottom of the glass. It’s the heaviest ingredient, so it will naturally stay at the bottom.
3. Add the Orange Juice
Slowly pour ½ oz orange juice over the back of a bar spoon, letting it gently settle on top of the grenadine.
4. Add Pineapple Juice
Using the same spoon technique, slowly layer ½ oz pineapple juice over the orange juice.
5. Layer the Blue Curaçao
Carefully pour ½ oz blue curaçao over the spoon, creating a striking blue layer.
6. Add Vodka & Cream
- Slowly pour ½ oz vodka, followed by ½ oz cream, allowing them to settle gently.
- The cream will float on top, creating a smooth finish.
7. Serve & Enjoy!
Admire your beautifully layered Rainbow Shot, then drink in one smooth sip!
Notes
Chill all ingredients beforehand for a cleaner layering effect.
Use a bar spoon to slowly pour each liquid for perfect layers.
Pour from heaviest to lightest ingredients to maintain distinct colors.
Don’t shake or stir—this drink is all about the layers!
Helpful Tips for the Perfect Rainbow Shot
Want to nail the layers and impress your guests? Follow these expert tips!
1. Chill Everything Beforehand
Cold liquids layer better and stay distinct—store your ingredients in the fridge before making the shot.
2. Use a Bar Spoon for Layering
Slowly pour each liquid over the back of a bar spoon to prevent the layers from mixing.
3. Pour from Heaviest to Lightest
The order matters! Always start with grenadine (heaviest) and finish with cream (lightest).
4. Slow and Steady Wins the Race
Pour gently and slowly—rushing can cause colors to blend instead of forming distinct layers.
5. Experiment with Different Creams
Heavy cream works best because it floats beautifully. Baileys or coconut cream can add fun twists!
6. Make a Big Batch for Parties
Pre-measure ingredients and line up multiple shot glasses for quick assembly.
7. Keep Your Glasses Clean for the Best Look
A smudge-free, clear shot glass makes the colors pop!
8. Want It Stronger? Add More Vodka!
Increase the vodka to ¾ oz for an extra kick.
Conservation and Storage
Since the Rainbow Shot is a layered drink, it’s best served immediately to maintain its stunning color separation and fresh taste. However, here are some tips if you need to prepare ahead:
Can You Store a Rainbow Shot?
No, the layers will mix over time. The best way to enjoy this shot is to serve it fresh.
How to Prep for a Party
Pre-measure the ingredients into small cups or shot glasses and keep them chilled.
Set up a layering station with a bar spoon, jigger, and all ingredients lined up for quick pouring.
Chill the shot glasses for an even better layering effect.
How to Keep It Looking Fresh
Cold ingredients layer better—store everything in the fridge until just before pouring.
Use thick cream (like heavy cream) to keep the top layer from sinking too quickly.
What If You Have Leftovers?
Since this shot is designed for one-time enjoyment, storing leftovers isn’t recommended. However, you can:
Mix leftovers into a fun cocktail! Pour into a glass with ice and stir for a unique, fruity mixed drink.
Turn it into a boozy milkshake! Blend with ice cream for a creamy, colorful twist.
Substitutions and Variations
Non-Alcoholic Version: Use blue fruit syrup instead of blue curaçao and skip the vodka.
Tropical Twist: Swap orange juice for mango nectar for extra sweetness.
Creamier Version: Use Baileys instead of heavy cream for a boozy dessert-style shot.
Storage Instructions for Rainbow Shots
Since Rainbow Shots are layered, they do not store well and should be served immediately for the best visual effect and flavor. However, if you’re preparing for a party, here are some tips:
Can You Store a Rainbow Shot?
No, the layers will mix over time, losing the signature rainbow effect.
Party Prep Tips for Quick Assembly
Pre-measure all ingredients into small cups or shot glasses and keep them chilled.
Chill the shot glasses for a cleaner layering effect.
Set up a layering station with a bar spoon, jigger, and all ingredients lined up for fast pouring.
What to Do with Leftovers?
If you have extra mixed ingredients:
Stir them together and serve as a fruity mixed shot.
Pour over ice to create a mini cocktail.
Blend with ice cream for a boozy, colorful milkshake!
Since the Rainbow Shot is best fresh, avoid storing it and instead prep your ingredients in advance for quick, flawless layering!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make a batch of Rainbow Shots in advance?
No, since the layers will blend over time. However, you can pre-measure and chill the ingredients for quick assembly.
2. How do I keep the layers from mixing?
Pour slowly over a bar spoon.
Chill ingredients before pouring.
Follow the correct order from heaviest to lightest.
3. Can I make this into a full-sized cocktail?
Yes! Triple the ingredients and serve in a tall glass over ice.
4. What if I don’t have Blue Curaçao?
Use blue raspberry syrup for a similar effect in both color and flavor.
5. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but heavy cream works best for staying on top without sinking.
Conclusion
The Rainbow Shot is a fun, colorful, and delicious drink that’s guaranteed to impress at any party! Whether you’re celebrating with friends or just want to create a visually stunning cocktail, this layered shot is a must-try.
Tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments!
Love it? Save & share on Pinterest!
Cheers to bright, beautiful drinks!
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Rainbow Shot
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 shot 1x
Description
The Rainbow Shot is a vibrant, layered shot that looks like a mini masterpiece! Combining sweet grenadine, citrus juices, blue curaçao, vodka, and cream, this drink is as fun to make as it is to drink. With the right pouring technique, you’ll create beautifully distinct layers, making it perfect for parties, celebrations, and impressing guests!
Ingredients
- ½ oz (15ml) Grenadine
- ½ oz (15ml) Orange Juice
- ½ oz (15ml) Pineapple Juice
- ½ oz (15ml) Blue Curaçao
- ½ oz (15ml) Vodka
- ½ oz (15ml) Cream (or heavy cream)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Shot Glass
Use a clear shot glass to showcase the layered effect.
2. Layer the Grenadine
Pour ½ oz grenadine directly into the bottom of the glass. It’s the heaviest ingredient, so it will naturally stay at the bottom.
3. Add the Orange Juice
Slowly pour ½ oz orange juice over the back of a bar spoon, letting it gently settle on top of the grenadine.
4. Add Pineapple Juice
Using the same spoon technique, slowly layer ½ oz pineapple juice over the orange juice.
5. Layer the Blue Curaçao
Carefully pour ½ oz blue curaçao over the spoon, creating a striking blue layer.
6. Add Vodka & Cream
- Slowly pour ½ oz vodka, followed by ½ oz cream, allowing them to settle gently.
- The cream will float on top, creating a smooth finish.
7. Serve & Enjoy!
Admire your beautifully layered Rainbow Shot, then drink in one smooth sip! 🌈🥂
Notes
✔️ Chill all ingredients beforehand for a cleaner layering effect.
✔️ Use a bar spoon to slowly pour each liquid for perfect layers.
✔️ Pour from heaviest to lightest ingredients to maintain distinct colors.
✔️ Don’t shake or stir—this drink is all about the layers!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Cocktails, Shots
- Method: Layered Pouring
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Rainbow shot, layered cocktail, party drink, colorful shot