Unicorn Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

how to make a Unicorn recipe

📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Gin
Alcohol 10%
Calories 300 calories
Fat 5g
Protein 1g
Carbohydrates 40g
Prep time 5 minutes

Ever wondered what magic tastes like? The Unicorn cocktail is a mystical blend that tells a story in every sip. We’ll explore its history, flavors, and how to craft this enchanting drink, so join us on this flavorful adventure! ⬇️

History

The Unicorn cocktail, with its whimsical name and vibrant colors, hails from the creativity of modern mixologists. It’s a recent addition to the cocktail world, designed to capture the imagination. Its appeal lies in its ability to transport the drinker to a land of fantasy with just one taste.

  • The name ‘Unicorn’ reflects the drink’s playful and magical nature.
  • It gained popularity through social media for its photogenic presentation.
  • The cocktail is often associated with celebrations and themed parties.

The taste of a Unicorn?

Imagine a sip of pure joy; the Unicorn cocktail is a sweet and fruity concoction that dances on the palate. Its taste is as enchanting as its namesake, with layers of flavor that remind one of a fantastical dreamland.

I personally adore the Unicorn cocktail for its ability to turn any moment into a special occasion with its delightful taste and striking appearance.

Interesting facts about Unicorn

  • The Unicorn cocktail often features a spectrum of colors, resembling a rainbow.
  • Its ingredients can include a variety of fruit juices and syrups, creating a unique flavor every time.
  • Some versions of the Unicorn cocktail include edible glitter, adding a sparkling effect to the drink.

Ingredients

  • Vodka: 1.5 oz (45ml)
  • Blue Curaçao: 1 oz (30ml)
  • White cranberry juice: 2 oz (60ml)
  • Lemonade: 2 oz (60ml)
  • Grenadine: 0.5 oz (15ml)

A hurricane glass is ideal for serving a Unicorn, as its shape showcases the drink’s colorful layers. Alternatively, a highball glass could also be used, although it provides less space for the drink’s visual effect.

Recipe. How to make Unicorn

  1. Pour 1 oz (30ml) of blue Curaçao into the bottom of the glass.
  2. Gently layer 2 oz (60ml) of white cranberry juice over the blue Curaçao.
  3. Add 2 oz (60ml) of lemonade to the mix.
  4. Top with 1.5 oz (45ml) of vodka.
  5. Drizzle 0.5 oz (15ml) of grenadine to create a gradient effect.

While the Unicorn cocktail is a treat for the senses, it’s good to remember it can be high in sugar. To make a healthier version, consider using natural sweeteners or less syrup. The drink’s ingredients don’t offer significant health benefits, but in moderation, it can be a delightful indulgence.

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Food Pairings

Pairing the right food with your Unicorn cocktail can elevate the entire experience. Let’s explore some delightful combinations that will harmonize with the cocktail’s sweet and fruity notes.

Vanilla Cupcakes

The subtle sweetness of vanilla cupcakes complements the bold flavors of a Unicorn cocktail. It’s a perfect pairing for a celebratory treat.

Fruit Tarts

Bright and tangy fruit tarts mirror the fruity essence of the Unicorn, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that dance together on your palate.

Assorted Macarons

The light, airy texture and variety of flavors found in macarons match the whimsical nature of the Unicorn cocktail, making for a delightful pairing.

I find the Unicorn cocktail’s blend of sweet and sour flavors absolutely mesmerizing—it’s like a party in a glass that brings a smile to everyone’s face.


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Bartender Advice

  • For a truly magical presentation, layer the ingredients slowly to maintain distinct colors.
  • Always use fresh ingredients when possible to enhance the cocktail’s vibrant flavors.
  • Experiment with edible glitter or colored sugar rims for a festive touch.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Unicorn, 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 Unicorn

  • Swap out the blue Curaçao for a different flavored liqueur to alter the color and taste.
  • Introduce sparkling water or soda for a fizzy twist on the classic recipe.
  • Adjust the sweetness by increasing or decreasing the amount of grenadine.

Unicorn Variations

Tropical Unicorn

  • Ingredients: Add pineapple juice and coconut cream for a tropical twist.
  • Recipe: Layer the tropical ingredients following the classic Unicorn method.

Berry Unicorn

  • Ingredients: Use raspberry vodka and a splash of blackberry syrup.
  • Recipe: Combine the berry ingredients, then layer as you would in the original.

Spicy Unicorn

  • Ingredients: Infuse jalapeño in the vodka for a spicy kick.
  • Recipe: Muddle the jalapeño at the bottom, then proceed with the standard layering.

For those who prefer a non-alcoholic treat, a Virgin Unicorn swaps the vodka for an extra splash of lemonade. Just follow the same layering technique to keep the magic alive.

Q&A

Can I make a Unicorn cocktail ahead of time?

Sure thing! Mix all ingredients except the grenadine in a pitcher. When ready to serve, pour into glasses and add the grenadine to create the gradient effect.

Is the Unicorn cocktail suitable for kids?

Yes, indeed! Just skip the alcohol for a fun and fruity drink that’s perfect for any kid’s party.

What’s the best way to achieve the layered effect?

Patience is key. Pour each ingredient slowly over the back of a spoon to maintain those beautiful layers.

Can I use food coloring in the Unicorn cocktail?

Absolutely! A few drops can intensify the colors, making your Unicorn even more magical.

What non-alcoholic substitutions work well in a Unicorn?

Sparkling grape juice or flavored sparkling water can replace the vodka to keep the fizz without the buzz.

How can I make a Unicorn cocktail less sweet?

Easily done! Use less grenadine and opt for unsweetened fruit juices or a splash of club soda to balance the sweetness.

Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer is a seasoned mixology and cocktail recipe writer at CocktailPlans.com. Chris has a deep passion for cocktail creation and mixology, and has been exploring and writing about the world of drinks for over 5 years.

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