Jenna Haley
The Ghostbuster cocktail is a fun, eerie twist on a fruity martini perfect for Halloween parties or any spooky-themed gathering. Bright green from melon and peach liqueurs, it’s as striking as it is flavorful. Gin adds a crisp botanical base, while lime juice and simple syrup bring balance between tart and sweet. The magic happens with a few drops of Irish cream liqueur, which swirl through the drink to create a ghostly, mist-like effect. Whether you’re mixing for a crowd or enjoying a solo fright night treat, the Ghostbuster is equal parts playful and delicious.
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Tasting Notes
The Ghostbuster Cocktail is light, fruity, and perfectly balanced with a playful visual twist. The gin provides a crisp botanical base, while melon and peach liqueurs layer in sweetness and gentle fruit flavor. Lime juice adds acidity that keeps the drink refreshing, and simple syrup softens the citrus edge for a smooth finish. The optional neon green petal dust gives the cocktail a supernatural glow, enhancing its Halloween-ready look. When Irish cream is dropped into the glass, it forms eerie wisps that float and swirl creating a ghost-like effect that makes this cocktail as entertaining as it is flavorful.
Equipment and Glassware
To prepare the Ghostbuster Cocktail, you’ll need just a few standard bar tools. A cocktail shaker is essential for combining and chilling the gin, liqueurs, lime juice, and syrup evenly. A strainer ensures a smooth pour into your serving glass without unwanted ice shards. A martini glass works best for presentation, showing off the bright green hue and the swirling “ghost” created by the Irish cream drops. If you choose to use neon green petal dust, a small whisk or bar spoon helps mix it evenly. These simple tools make it easy to create a cocktail that’s striking and festive.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz gin
- 0.75 oz melon liqueur
- 0.75 oz peach liqueur
- 0.5 oz lime juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 4 drops Irish cream liqueur
- Neon green petal dust (optional)
Instructions
- Add the gin, melon liqueur, peach liqueur, lime juice, simple syrup, Neon green petal dust and cubed ice to a cocktail shaker.
- Shake vigorously until well chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a martini glass.
- Carefully drop 4 drops of Irish cream liqueur into the glass for a ghostly effect.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your hauntingly delicious cocktail!
Pro Tips
- Shake with plenty of ice for a crisp, well-chilled texture.
- Use fresh lime juice for brighter acidity.
- Add the Irish cream slowly for the most distinct “ghost” shapes.
- Chill the martini glass beforehand for a smoother finish.
- Neon green petal dust enhances color without affecting taste.
- Avoid stirring after adding Irish cream it disrupts the effect.
- Try substituting vodka for gin if you prefer a milder base.
- Serve immediately to keep the “ghost” design visible.
When to Serve
The Ghostbuster Cocktail is an ideal drink for Halloween parties, themed gatherings, or movie nights featuring spooky classics. Its bright color and swirling ghostly design make it a fun centerpiece for any festive bar setup. Despite its playful appearance, the flavor profile is balanced and easy to enjoy, appealing to both casual drinkers and cocktail fans alike. This cocktail works best as a pre-dinner or party drink when guests are mingling and enjoying the showmanship of the pour. It’s a conversation starter that brings a bit of creative flair to any celebration.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Gin: Bombay Sapphire or Tanqueray for smooth botanical balance.
- Melon Liqueur: Midori for bright color and sweet melon flavor.
- Peach Liqueur: DeKuyper Peachtree or Archers for reliable sweetness.
- Irish Cream: Baileys for smooth texture and consistency.
- Petal Dust: Edible neon green dust from brands like Truly Mad Plastics.
- Simple Syrup: Homemade or store-bought, like Monin or Liber & Co.
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz gin
- 0.75 oz melon liqueur
- 0.75 oz peach liqueur
- 0.5 oz lime juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 4 drops Irish cream liqueur
Instructions
- Add the gin, melon liqueur, peach liqueur, lime juice, simple syrup and cubed ice to a cocktail shaker.
- Shake vigorously until well chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a martini glass.
- Carefully drop 4 drops of Irish cream liqueur into the glass for a ghostly effect.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your hauntingly delicious cocktail!
Video
Notes
Pro Tips
- To achieve the perfect “ghostly” effect, drop the Irish cream in gently so it forms eerie patterns as it disperses.
- Adjust the lime juice to balance the sweetness from the melon and peach liqueurs for a more personalized taste.
- For added spooky flair, garnish with a small piece of dry ice or a Halloween-themed garnish.
