Halloween isn’t all about the costumes—the atmosphere can really make or break a party. The eerie glow of candles, the slightly-spooky playlist and, of course, the perfect cocktails, with bonus points for blood-like hues.
Given I’ve carefully curated a list of five red cocktails that aren’t just visually striking but packed with bold, unforgettable flavors, if you’re hosting a Halloween party this year, these drinks will more than lend a helping hand (skeletal or otherwise)..
Whether you’re entertaining guests in a dry ice-filled living room or planning far in advanced for parties of the more classically festive variety (red is a fall-to-winter cocktail color, after all!), here are five dark and delicious red cocktails for a truly chilling night.
1. Blood Orange Margarita
Who would enjoy it?
This is a drink for anyone who loves the bright, citrusy punch of a margarita but wants something with a bit of dramatic flair. It’s refreshing and bold—the perfect welcome drink.
What ingredient makes the cocktail red?
The fresh blood orange juice provides a rich, deep red hue.
Recipe:
- 2 oz tequila
- 1 oz fresh blood orange juice
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1/2 oz Cointreau or triple sec
- 1/2 oz agave syrup
- Salt for the rim (optional)
Rim a chilled glass with salt, if you prefer, (a bit of lime juice on the rim will help it stick).
Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice.
Shake vigorously and strain into the glass.
Garnish with a blood orange slice.
2. Blackberry Blood Moon Smash
Blackberry Blood Moon Smash cocktail
Who would enjoy it?
This is for someone who enjoys a fruit-forward cocktail with depth. It’s not overly sweet, making it a great choice for bourbon enthusiasts or anyone looking for something a little richer.
What ingredient makes the cocktail red?
Muddled blackberries give the drink its rich, dark red color.
Recipe:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 4-5 fresh blackberries
- 1/2 oz lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Crushed ice
Muddle blackberries in a shaker.
Add bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and bitters.
Fill with crushed ice and shake.
Strain into a rocks glass and garnish with a blackberry skewer.
3. The Scarlet Negroni
Who would enjoy it?
This one’s for those who love the complexities of a Negroni but want something a little different. Its sweetness makes it more approachable, but the bitterness will still appeal to the classic cocktail aficionado.
What ingredient makes the cocktail red?
Pomegranate liqueur or juice adds a deep, blood-red hue.
Recipe:
- 1 oz gin
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 1 oz pomegranate liqueur (or juice)
- Orange twist for garnish
Combine the gin, sweet vermouth, and pomegranate liqueur in a mixing glass with ice.
Stir until well-chilled, then strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
Garnish with an orange twist.
4. The Crimson Spritz
Who would enjoy it?
This is perfect for those who enjoy a lighter, more refreshing cocktail (see: the Aperol Spritz aficionados in your friendship group). The cranberry bring a welcome tartness, while the Prosecco keeps it bubbly and festive.
What ingredient makes the cocktail red?
Cranberry juice adds a bright, festive crimson to the drink.
Recipe:
- 2 oz Aperol
- 2 oz cranberry juice
- 4 oz Prosecco
- Splash of soda water
- Cranberry garnish
Combine Aperol and cranberry juice in a glass filled with ice.
Top with Prosecco and a splash of soda water.
Garnish with fresh cranberries.
5. Dark Cherry Old Fashioned
Dark Cherry Old Fashioned cocktail
Who would enjoy it?
This is a sophisticated cocktail for whiskey lovers who appreciate a subtle hint of sweetness. The dark cherry and walnut flavors add complexity, making it a perfect sip for the party’s Final Few.
What ingredient makes the cocktail red?
Dark cherry syrup brings a deep red tint to this otherwise classic cocktail.
Recipe:
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1/4 oz dark cherry syrup
- 2 dashes black walnut bitters
- Orange peel for garnish
In a rocks glass, combine the whiskey, cherry syrup, and bitters.
Add a large ice cube and stir until chilled.
Garnish with an orange peel.