The Drunk Leprechaun cocktail is a vibrant, fruity, and festive drink that’s perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any time you want a little luck in your glass. Made with citrusy orange juice, tropical pineapple, and a splash of Blue Curaçao, it transforms into a fun green hue. Ready in just five minutes, this cocktail is easy to make and guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.
Personal Story & Background
I first came across the Drunk Leprechaun cocktail at a St. Patrick’s Day party a few years ago. The bright green drink immediately caught my eye, and after one sip, I was hooked. It had just the right balance of citrus and sweetness with a smooth, refreshing finish. I knew I had to recreate it at home.
Since then, it’s become a go-to for celebrating the holiday. The beauty of this cocktail is how easy it is to customize. Whether you prefer it stronger, sweeter, or with a little fizz, there are plenty of ways to make it your own. It’s a fun and playful drink that embodies the spirit of the occasion.
Ingredient Notes
- Vodka – A neutral base that allows the other flavors to shine.
- Orange Juice – Adds sweetness and a fresh citrus note.
- Pineapple Juice – Enhances the tropical flavor and gives a slightly tart balance.
- Blue Curaçao – A bright blue citrus liqueur that, when mixed with orange juice, turns the drink a signature green.
- Ice – Keeps the drink chilled and refreshing.
- Garnishes (optional): Orange slices, cherries, or even a festive cocktail umbrella.
Possible Substitutions:
- Swap vodka for Irish whiskey for a bolder twist.
- Use sparkling water for a lighter, fizzy version.
- Replace Blue Curaçao with Midori for a different take on the green color.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Glass
Fill a highball or cocktail glass with ice to chill it while you prepare the drink.
2. Mix the Ingredients
In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, orange juice, and pineapple juice. Shake well.
3. Add the Blue Curaçao
Pour the Blue Curaçao over the mixture and stir gently to blend the color evenly.
4. Serve and Garnish
Strain the cocktail into your prepared glass with ice. Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry for a festive touch.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Use Fresh Juice – Freshly squeezed orange juice makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Chill Your Glass – A cold glass keeps the drink cool longer without watering it down.
- Balance the Sweetness – If you prefer a less sweet drink, add a splash of club soda or reduce the pineapple juice.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this cocktail as a fun signature drink at a St. Patrick’s Day party.
- Pair with salty snacks like pretzels or popcorn to complement the sweetness.
- Make a large batch in a punch bowl for easy self-serve at gatherings.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Not ideal for storage – This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh.
- Pre-mix without ice – If making ahead, store the mixed juices and vodka in the fridge and add ice and Blue Curaçao when serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this drink non-alcoholic?
Yes! Simply omit the vodka and use a splash of lemon-lime soda instead.
2. How can I make it stronger?
Increase the vodka or add a splash of Irish whiskey for more kick.
3. What’s the best type of glass to use?
A highball or rocks glass works best for this cocktail.
Conclusion
The Drunk Leprechaun is a fun and festive cocktail that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or just looking for a bright and tasty drink, this recipe is a must-try. Give it a go and let me know how you make it your own!
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Drunk Leprechaun Cocktail
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: Shaken
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
The Drunk Leprechaun cocktail is a vibrant, fruity, and festive drink that’s perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any time you want a little luck in your glass. Made with citrusy orange juice, tropical pineapple juice, and a splash of Blue Curaçao, it transforms into a fun green hue. Ready in just five minutes, this cocktail is easy to make and guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 2 oz orange juice
- 2 oz pineapple juice
- 1 oz Blue Curaçao
- Ice cubes
- Garnishes (optional): orange slices, cherries, or a festive cocktail umbrella
Instructions
- Prepare Your Glass: Fill a highball or cocktail glass with ice to chill it while you prepare the drink.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, orange juice, and pineapple juice. Shake well.
- Add the Blue Curaçao: Pour the Blue Curaçao over the mixture and stir gently to blend the color evenly.
- Serve and Garnish: Strain the cocktail into your prepared glass with ice. Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry for a festive touch.
Notes
- Use Fresh Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Chill Your Glass: A cold glass keeps the drink cool longer without watering it down.
- Balance the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet drink, add a splash of club soda or reduce the pineapple juice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail (approximately 6 oz)
- Calories: Approximately 285 kcal
- Sugar: 17 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg