The Gummy Bear Shot is a playful, colorful, and surprisingly flavorful shooter that has become a go-to favorite at bars, parties, and celebrations. Inspired by the sweet and fruity flavors of the classic gummy bear candy, this cocktail delivers a fun-sized burst of nostalgia with an adult twist. Whether you’re hosting a themed party, looking for a sweet shot for a bachelorette night, or just want a fun drink that goes down easy, the Gummy Bear Shot is a crowd-pleasing, candy-inspired cocktail that packs both flavor and flair.
This shot is known for being deceptively smooth and fruit-forward, making it ideal for those who prefer lighter, sweeter drinks. It’s a favorite among casual drinkers and seasoned bartenders alike because of how simple it is to make and how easily it can be customized. With its bold color and candy-sweet aroma, the Gummy Bear Shot is not only tasty but visually fun—perfect for themed nights, colorful trays of shots, or drinks that feel more like a celebration than a cocktail.
There are many variations of the Gummy Bear Shot, most popularly the White Gummy Bear Shot, which mimics the fruity, tropical flavors of the white gummy bear candy. Whether you go with the classic raspberry-flavored version or explore strawberry, pineapple, or tropical blends, the Gummy Bear Shot always promises a good time in a tiny glass.
Ingredients
- 1 oz raspberry vodka (or plain vodka if customizing) – The core spirit that mimics the fruity profile of gummy bears
- 1 oz peach schnapps – Adds a sweet, slightly tangy stone fruit note
- 1 oz sweet and sour mix – Balances the sweetness with a tangy citrus bite
- 1 splash lemon-lime soda (like Sprite) – Adds a fizzy, refreshing twist to finish the shot
- Ice – For shaking and chilling
- Optional: gummy bear candy for garnish – Adds whimsy and reinforces the theme
Preparation
Step 1: Chill Your Shot Glass
Place your shot glass in the freezer for a few minutes or fill it with ice water and set aside while preparing the drink. A cold glass enhances the flavor and smoothness of the shot.
Step 2: Fill the Shaker
In a cocktail shaker, add 1 oz raspberry vodka, 1 oz peach schnapps, and 1 oz sweet and sour mix. Fill the shaker with ice cubes to chill the ingredients thoroughly.
Step 3: Shake Vigorously
Secure the lid and shake the ingredients for 10–15 seconds until the shaker feels frosty. This not only chills the shot but also helps blend the sweet and sour flavors seamlessly.
Step 4: Add the Fizz
After shaking, add a splash of lemon-lime soda directly to the shaker or pour it on top of the shot after straining for a fizzy finish. Do not shake with soda included, as carbonation can cause the lid to pop.
Step 5: Strain into Shot Glass
Remove the ice from your prepared shot glass and strain the mixture into the glass. The resulting shot will be slightly pinkish or clear, depending on the ingredients used, with a bright, inviting scent.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
If desired, place a gummy bear on a cocktail skewer and set it across the top of the shot glass or drop it in for fun. Serve immediately.
Variations
White Gummy Bear Shot
- Replace raspberry vodka with white grape vodka or use plain vodka with a splash of pineapple juice
- Maintain peach schnapps and sweet and sour mix
- Add a splash of Sprite for a fizzy kick
This is the most popular version and tastes very close to the classic white gummy bear candy.
Red Gummy Bear Shot
- Use cherry vodka or strawberry vodka
- Add a splash of cranberry juice
- Optional: a small drop of grenadine for color
This version is sweeter and deeper in color with a red berry twist.
Tropical Gummy Bear Shot
- Use pineapple vodka and banana liqueur
- Add a splash of coconut water or tropical juice blend
- Optional: rim with sugar and garnish with tropical fruit gummy candy
This shot tastes like a mini vacation with each sip.
Blue Gummy Bear Shot
- Use blue raspberry vodka
- Substitute peach schnapps with blue curaçao
- Add sweet and sour mix and top with club soda or Sprite
This vibrant blue shot is striking in appearance and delivers a tangy berry profile.
Non-Alcoholic Gummy Bear Mocktail Shot
- Mix white grape juice, peach nectar, and a splash of lemon juice
- Shake with ice and strain into a shot glass
- Top with Sprite and garnish with a gummy bear
A fun, festive mocktail for all ages or sober-friendly parties.
Cooking Note
- Always use fresh ice to chill and shake. Old or melting ice can dilute the shot too quickly and affect the flavor.
- Avoid shaking with soda inside the shaker to prevent leaks or pressure build-up. Always add soda after shaking.
- The color of the shot depends on the flavor of vodka and schnapps used—play with combinations to match your party theme.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve on colorful trays with multiple variations for a flight of gummy bear shots
- Offer them at birthday parties, themed nights, or bachelorette parties for a whimsical, sweet touch
- Garnish each shot with a matching gummy bear—for example, red for cherry, white for pineapple, blue for blue raspberry
- Chill shot glasses ahead of time and serve them in ice-filled trays to keep cold during large gatherings
Tips
- Use infused vodkas for unique flavor profiles—citrus, berry, or tropical infusions work great
- Prep a batch in advance for parties by combining vodka, schnapps, and sweet and sour mix in a pitcher. Add soda only when serving
- Adjust sweetness by modifying the amount of schnapps or syrup in your mix—some versions may benefit from a touch of simple syrup or grenadine
- If using colored gummy bears for garnish, match their color to the shot’s flavor for an appealing presentation
- Always shake with enough ice to chill thoroughly; warm shots taste more alcoholic and less smooth
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Shot Approx.)
Calories: 120
Carbohydrates: 11g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Sodium: 2mg
Alcohol Content: ~15–20% ABV depending on vodka used
FAQs
What does a Gummy Bear Shot taste like?
It tastes like a sweet, fruity burst of candy, often with notes of raspberry, peach, and citrus. It’s smooth, lightly tangy, and very easy to drink.
Can I use different vodka flavors?
Absolutely. The shot is highly adaptable. Raspberry, cherry, strawberry, pineapple, and citrus vodkas all work great. Pick flavors that pair well with peach schnapps and citrus.
Do I have to use sweet and sour mix?
Sweet and sour mix provides the citrus tang and balances sweetness. You can make your own by combining fresh lemon juice and simple syrup for a fresher version.
Can I turn this into a cocktail instead of a shot?
Yes! Just increase all ingredients proportionally and serve over ice in a rocks glass or as a martini-style cocktail.
Is the gummy bear garnish safe in the shot?
Yes. Dropping a gummy bear into the shot is not only safe but fun—it will soften slightly and can be enjoyed at the end of the drink.
Conclusion
The Gummy Bear Shot is the perfect mix of fun, flavor, and festivity. With its vibrant look, candy-inspired taste, and endless variations, it brings a sense of playful indulgence to any celebration. Whether you prefer the classic white gummy bear version, want to experiment with tropical or spicy twists, or plan to serve a tray of colorful options at your next party, the Gummy Bear Shot delivers every time.
This is more than just a drink—it’s an experience. A tiny, sweet sip of nostalgia, grown-up style. So grab your shaker, choose your flavor, pop in a gummy bear, and raise your glass to good times. Because every party is better with a little candy in your cocktail. Cheers!