Paul Kushner
The Beetlejuice Cocktail is a darkly enchanting drink that balances tropical smoothness with earthy berry flavor perfect for Halloween gatherings or when you want a drink with both mystery and freshness. Coconut tequila and coconut water lend a silky, tropical base, while muddled blackberries provide deep color and rich fruitiness. Fresh lime juice and simple syrup bring balance, and basil adds an herbal note that makes each sip intriguing and aromatic. Unstrained and served over crushed ice, this cocktail has a moody, layered look and a vibrant, juicy flavor that’s hauntingly good.
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Tasting Notes
The Beetlejuice Cocktail combines fruity depth with herbal freshness for a drink that feels layered yet refreshing. Muddled blackberries create a rich, dark base that ties perfectly to the cocktail’s name and theme. Coconut tequila adds a smooth, tropical note, while coconut water lightens the texture and enhances the drink’s natural sweetness. Lime juice provides bright acidity, and simple syrup balances the tartness. Fresh basil introduces a gentle herbal aroma that gives the cocktail a refreshing finish. Each sip offers a mix of sweet berry, citrus, and coconut, making it a playful yet well-balanced drink that’s ideal for spooky season.
Equipment and Glassware
To make the Beetlejuice Cocktail, you’ll need just a few standard bar tools. A cocktail shaker is essential for mixing and chilling the ingredients while incorporating the muddled fruit. A muddler helps crush the blackberries and release their deep color and juice. A jigger ensures accurate measurements, while a bar spoon can help with gentle stirring if needed. For serving, a tall Pilsner glass works best it highlights the vibrant purple hue and provides space for ice and garnish. Using crushed ice gives the cocktail a frosty, textured look that fits perfectly with its dark, mysterious vibe.
Ingredients
- 5 blackberries
- 2 oz 1800 Tequila Coconut
- 1.5 oz coconut water
- 2/3 oz lime juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 3 large basil leaves ripped in half
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle the blackberries until they release their juices and create a rich, dark base.
- Add the 1800 Tequila Coconut, coconut water, lime juice, simple syrup, and torn basil leaves to the shaker.
- Add a handful of small ice cubes to the shaker and shake vigorously to mix and chill the ingredients.
- Without straining, pour the entire contents of the shaker into a Pilsner glass, allowing the muddled blackberries and basil to remain in the drink.
- Top the cocktail with crushed ice to fill the glass and create a frosty finish.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Beetlejuice cocktail.
Pro Tips
- Use ripe blackberries for the best color and sweetness.
- Muddle gently to avoid breaking basil leaves into tiny bits.
- Chill all ingredients before mixing for a smoother finish.
- Shake firmly to fully blend coconut tequila with fruit juices.
- Use crushed ice for visual appeal and texture.
- Substitute agave nectar for simple syrup if preferred.
- Add extra lime juice for a more tart, refreshing flavor.
- Garnish with a blackberry and basil leaf for presentation.
When to Serve
The Beetlejuice Cocktail is ideal for Halloween celebrations or themed gatherings that call for a drink with personality. Its deep purple color and natural fruit texture make it a visual standout, while its refreshing flavor profile suits both casual and festive occasions. The combination of coconut, lime, and berries keeps it light enough for warm evenings yet rich enough for cooler nights. It’s perfect as a signature cocktail for seasonal parties or as a conversation starter at small get-togethers. With its balance of flavor and theatrical appearance, it’s a crowd-pleasing drink for any celebration.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Tequila: 1800 Coconut Tequila for its smooth tropical profile.
- Coconut Water: Vita Coco or Harmless Harvest for clean, natural taste.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed for the best acidity.
- Simple Syrup: Homemade or Monin for a balanced sweetness.
- Blackberries: Fresh, ripe berries for strong color and flavor.
- Basil: Fresh large-leaf basil for aromatic depth.
Similar Cocktails
- The Upside Down Cocktail
- Monsters Inc
- Franken-Rita
- Bloody Margarita with Black Lava Salt Rim
- Tequila Sunrise Vampire
Ingredients
- 5 blackberries
- 2 oz 1800 Tequila Coconut
- 1.5 oz coconut water
- 2/3 oz lime juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 3 large basil leaves ripped in half
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle the blackberries until they release their juices and create a rich, dark base.
- Add the 1800 Tequila Coconut, coconut water, lime juice, simple syrup, and torn basil leaves to the shaker.
- Add a handful of small ice cubes to the shaker and shake vigorously to mix and chill the ingredients.
- Without straining, pour the entire contents of the shaker into a Pilsner glass, allowing the muddled blackberries and basil to remain in the drink.
- Top the cocktail with crushed ice to fill the glass and create a frosty finish.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Beetlejuice cocktail.
Notes
- For a more intense blackberry flavor, you can muddle additional blackberries or add a splash of blackberry liqueur.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less simple syrup according to your taste.
- To enhance the tropical coconut flavor, consider garnishing with a toasted coconut rim or a slice of fresh coconut.
