Paul Kushner
Celebrate Halloween with a festive Candy Corn Cocktail that’s as playful as it is flavorful. This drink uses vodka infused with candy corn for a sweet, nostalgic base, paired with the citrus brightness of orange juice. The two layer together beautifully in the glass, creating a striking visual effect reminiscent of the iconic Halloween candy. Finished with a swirl of whipped cream and extra candy corn for garnish, this cocktail doubles as both a drink and dessert. Perfect for themed parties or spooky gatherings, it’s a fun way to bring seasonal flair to your cocktail menu.
This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy
Tasting Notes
The Candy Corn Cocktail is sweet, playful, and made for festive gatherings. Candy corn–infused whipped cream vodka delivers smooth vanilla sweetness with a nostalgic candy finish, while orange juice adds bright citrus to balance the richness. When layered correctly, the cocktail mimics the striped appearance of the classic Halloween treat, making it both eye-catching and fun. Topped with whipped cream and garnished with extra candy corn, the drink carries a dessert-like flair that works perfectly as a themed holiday centerpiece. Light, sweet, and creamy with a citrus edge, this cocktail brings a sense of celebration to every sip.
Equipment and Glassware
Creating this Candy Corn Cocktail is simple, but careful layering makes the presentation shine. A martini glass is ideal, showing off the colorful layers. A jigger ensures precise measurement of vodka and orange juice for the correct balance. A bar spoon is key to creating the layered effect, as its back allows the vodka to gently slide against the glass instead of mixing too quickly. A shaker isn’t needed, since the drink relies on separation rather than blending. A small bowl or container is useful for holding candy corn if you plan to infuse the vodka ahead of time.
Ingredients
- 2 oz whipped cream vodka infused with candy corn
- 4 oz orange juice
- Candy corn plus more for garnish
- Whipped cream for garnish
Instructions
- Pour the orange juice into a martini glass.
- Hold a spoon, back side up, against the inside wall of the martini glass.
- Slowly pour the candy corn-infused vodka over the back of the spoon. Make sure the vodka touches the inside of the glass before reaching the orange juice to create a layered effect, with the vodka sinking to the bottom.
- Top the drink with whipped cream.
- Garnish with additional candy corn.
- Serve and enjoy your Candy Corn Martini!
Pro Tips
- Infuse the vodka with candy corn overnight for the boldest flavor and color.
- Chill both vodka and orange juice beforehand to keep the layers crisp.
- Pour the vodka slowly and steadily to achieve a clear separation.
- Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the brightest flavor.
- For a sweeter finish, add a splash of cream before topping with whipped cream.
- Garnish with skewered candy corn for easy presentation.
- Prepare just before serving to maintain the visual layers.
When to Serve
The Candy Corn Cocktail is best suited for Halloween parties, themed gatherings, or seasonal celebrations where presentation is just as important as flavor. Its playful layering and candy garnish make it a natural conversation starter, perfect for holiday dessert tables or as a welcome drink at costume parties. Thanks to its sweet profile, it can also double as a fun after-dinner cocktail, bridging the line between beverage and treat. Lighthearted and colorful, this cocktail embodies the festive spirit of October, making it a must-have addition to any celebration that calls for a bit of fun.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Whipped Cream Vodka: Pinnacle Whipped or Smirnoff Whipped Cream are widely available and ideal for infusion.
- Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed or high-quality bottled juice such as Simply Orange.
- Whipped Cream: Use freshly whipped cream for the best texture, or Reddi-wip for convenience.
- Candy Corn: Brach’s candy corn is a classic and reliable choice.
Similar Cocktails
- Cognac Apple Cider Cocktail
- Snow White’s Poison Apple
- Honeycrisp Apple Cider Rum Punch
- Kentucky Peach Bourbon and Vodka Cocktail
- Cranberry-Vodka Fizz
Ingredients
- 2 oz whipped cream vodka infused with candy corn
- 4 oz orange juice
- Candy corn plus more for garnish
- Whipped cream for garnish
Instructions
- Pour the orange juice into a martini glass.
- Hold a spoon, back side up, against the inside wall of the martini glass.
- Slowly pour the candy corn-infused vodka over the back of the spoon. Make sure the vodka touches the inside of the glass before reaching the orange juice to create a layered effect, with the vodka sinking to the bottom.
- Top the drink with whipped cream.
- Garnish with additional candy corn.
- Serve and enjoy your Candy Corn Martini!
Notes
Pro Tips
- To make candy corn–infused vodka, soak candy corn in vodka overnight, then strain before use.
- For cleaner layers, chill the orange juice before pouring.
- Use a steady hand when layering to achieve a distinct separation of colors.
