Traffic Light Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Midori
Alcohol 10%
Calories 150 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 22g
Prep time 5 minutes

The Traffic Light cocktail is a vibrant and colorful drink that looks like a real traffic light! It has three distinct layers: green, yellow, and red, each with its own delicious flavor. Let’s explore the history, taste, and how to make this fun cocktail together! ⬇️

History

The Traffic Light cocktail was created in the 1980s. It was inspired by the colorful traffic lights found on roads. People love it for its beautiful layers and refreshing taste.

• The name “Traffic Light” comes from the cocktail’s three colorful layers: green, yellow, and red.
• It became popular in bars and clubs during the 1980s.
• The cocktail is known for its eye-catching presentation and fun, fruity flavors.

The taste of a Traffic Light?

The Traffic Light cocktail has a mix of sweet, sour, and fruity flavors. Each layer brings its own unique taste, making it a delightful and refreshing drink.

I personally love drinking Traffic Lights because they’re incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day.

Interesting facts about Traffic Light

• The Traffic Light cocktail is often used as a party drink because of its fun and colorful appearance.
• It’s a great conversation starter at social events due to its unique presentation.
• The layers are carefully poured to create a stunning visual effect.

Ingredients 📃

• Green Curaçao: 1 oz (30ml)
• Yellow Chartreuse: 1 oz (30ml)
• Grenadine: 1 oz (30ml)
• Ice cubes: As needed

A Traffic Light is often served in a **highball glass**. This glass enhances the drink’s visual appeal by showcasing the distinct layers. An alternative could be a **Collins glass**.

Recipe. How to make Traffic Light 🍹

1. Fill a **highball glass** with *ice cubes*.
2. Pour **1 oz (30ml) Green Curaçao** over the ice.
3. Carefully layer **1 oz (30ml) Yellow Chartreuse** on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon.
4. Finish by slowly adding **1 oz (30ml) Grenadine** to create the red layer at the bottom.

The Traffic Light cocktail has a high sugar content, so it might not be the healthiest choice if you’re watching your sugar intake. Consider using natural sweeteners or opting for low-sugar versions of the ingredients to make a healthier version.

Food Pairings

Certain foods complement the flavors of a Traffic Light.

Grilled Shrimp

The light, citrusy flavors of grilled shrimp complement the sweet and fruity layers of the Traffic Light cocktail.

Fresh Fruit Salad

A fresh fruit salad enhances the fruity notes of the cocktail, making for a refreshing pairing.

Cheese Platter

A variety of cheeses can balance the sweetness of the cocktail, offering a savory contrast.

I really enjoy the taste of Traffic Lights—the cool mint and zesty lime make it a perfect drink for relaxing after a long week.

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Bartender Advice

• *Chill* your ingredients to keep the layers intact and visually appealing.
• *Pour slowly* over the back of a spoon to create distinct layers.
• *Experiment* with different liqueurs to customize the color and flavor.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Traffic Light, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.

What you could change in Traffic Light

• Green Curaçao: Can be replaced with Midori for a melon flavor.
• Yellow Chartreuse: Swap with Limoncello for a lemony twist.
• Grenadine: Use raspberry syrup for a different red layer flavor.

Traffic Light Variations

Tropical Traffic Light

• Ingredients: Pineapple juice, Blue Curaçao, Grenadine.
• Recipe: Layer pineapple juice, Blue Curaçao, and Grenadine in a highball glass.

Citrus Traffic Light

• Ingredients: Orange juice, Lemon juice, Grenadine.
• Recipe: Layer orange juice, lemon juice, and Grenadine in a highball glass.

Berry Traffic Light

• Ingredients: Strawberry syrup, Blueberry syrup, Raspberry syrup.
• Recipe: Layer strawberry syrup, blueberry syrup, and raspberry syrup in a highball glass.

For a non-alcoholic version, use fruit juices instead of liqueurs. Layer green apple juice, lemonade, and cranberry juice for a fun and tasty Virgin Traffic Light.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make a Traffic Light cocktail without alcohol?

Absolutely! You can use fruit juices instead of liqueurs to create a delicious Virgin Traffic Light.

What’s the best way to create distinct layers?

Pour each layer slowly over the back of a spoon to keep them separate and visually appealing.

Can I use different colors for the layers?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different liqueurs or juices to create unique color combinations.

What type of glass should I use?

A highball glass is ideal, but you can also use a Collins glass if you prefer.

How can I reduce the sugar content in a Traffic Light cocktail?

Use natural sweeteners or low-sugar versions of the ingredients for a healthier option.

Can I make a large batch of Traffic Light cocktails for a party?

Yes, you can prepare the layers in advance and assemble the cocktails just before serving to ensure the layers stay distinct.