Kool-Aid Shot
Vodka, Midori, Chambord, and cranberry — recreating Kool-Aid (Perkins, Nebraska, 1927), General Foods acquiring in 1953, the Kool-Aid Man mascot debuting in 1954.
- ½ ozvodka
- ¼ ozmidori(melon liqueur)
- ¼ ozchambord(raspberry liqueur)
- ½ ozcranberry juice
Share this page
The Kool-Aid Shot recreates the distinctive flavor of Kool-Aid, the powdered drink mix introduced by Edwin Perkins in Hastings, Nebraska in 1927 and iconic for its Kool-Aid Man mascot, which debuted in 1954. Kool-Aid became the quintessential cheap, sweet, vivid-colored summer drink of American childhoods, particularly after General Foods acquired the brand in 1953 and distributed it aggressively through school fundraisers and summer programs. The cocktail version — typically combining vodka, Midori melon liqueur, Chambord raspberry liqueur, and cranberry juice — produces the same vivid red or red-purple color and sweet, fruity, slightly artificial taste that defines the original powdered mix. Its nostalgic appeal made it a reliable party shot throughout the 2000s.
🛒 Tools for This Recipe
Everything you need to make a great Kool-Aid Shot at home.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. These links help support Jigger & Joy at no extra cost to you. Learn more
🍸 Drink Responsibly: Alcoholic beverages should only be consumed by adults of legal drinking age. Never drink and drive. If you choose to drink, please do so responsibly. Excessive alcohol consumption can be harmful to your health. If you or someone you know struggles with alcohol, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357.
⚠️ Allergen Notice: Allergen information provided on this site is for general guidance only and may not be complete or accurate. Ingredients and formulations can vary by brand and may change without notice. If you have food allergies or sensitivities, always verify ingredients directly with manufacturers and check all product labels before consumption. Consult a healthcare professional if you have specific dietary concerns. Jigger & Joy is not liable for any adverse reactions resulting from the consumption of recipes on this site.
Disclaimer: Recipes are provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Nutritional information, ABV estimates, and other data are approximations and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods used.