Description
Halloween orange shots are festive citrus cocktails served in hollowed-out orange halves, combining fresh orange juice, vodka, and triple sec for a tangy-sweet party treat. They’re easy to make, visually stunning, and perfect for both adults and kids with a mocktail option.
Ingredients
- 4 large oranges (Valencia or navel)
- 1/2 cup vodka (120 ml)
- 1/4 cup triple sec (60 ml)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (30 ml, freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons simple syrup (30 ml, adjust to taste)
- Black food-safe gel (for decorating, optional)
- Orange zest curls or candy sprinkles (for garnish)
- Edible glitter (optional)
- For mocktail: replace vodka and triple sec with 3/4 cup orange juice (180 ml) and a splash of sparkling water or lemon-lime soda
Instructions
- Wash 4 large oranges well. Slice each in half crosswise. Using a paring knife, carefully cut around the inside edge of each orange half, then use a melon baller or spoon to scoop out the flesh. Save the juice and pulp in a bowl. Each empty orange half becomes your shot cup.
- Squeeze the orange flesh using a citrus juicer or by hand to yield about 1 cup (240 ml) of fresh orange juice. Discard seeds and excess pulp for a smoother shot.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup orange juice, 1/2 cup vodka, 1/4 cup triple sec, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons simple syrup. Whisk or stir well to blend. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as desired. For mocktail, swap vodka and triple sec for more juice and a splash of lemon-lime soda.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes. For a quick chill, place in the freezer for 5 minutes.
- While the shot mixture chills, use black food gel to draw jack-o-lantern faces or spooky designs on the outside of each orange half. Let dry for 5 minutes.
- Pour the chilled shot mixture evenly into each orange half (about 2-3 tablespoons per cup). Top with orange zest curls, candy sprinkles, or edible glitter if desired.
- Arrange the orange shots on a flat platter and serve immediately, or keep refrigerated until party time. Enjoy cold, straight from the orange peel.
Notes
Use firm, thick-skinned oranges for best results. Taste and adjust the shot base for sweetness or tartness. Decorate orange cups just before serving to prevent bleeding. For jelly shots, add 1 packet unflavored gelatin and refrigerate until set. Prep oranges and shot base ahead, but fill and garnish right before serving for freshest flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Cocktail
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 orange shot (about 2-3 tablespoons)
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 7
- Sodium: 1
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 1
Keywords: Halloween, orange shots, citrus cocktails, party drinks, vodka, triple sec, mocktail, festive, easy, kid-friendly, gluten-free