Swedish Fish Shot

I was at a friend’s birthday party last weekend, and they decided to try something new to add a little fun to the evening. Instead of the usual cocktails, they introduced us to the Swedish Fish Shot—a fun, vibrant drink that immediately caught everyone’s attention.

The moment I took my first sip, I was hooked (pun intended). The sweet yet tangy flavor of the cranberry juice paired with the bold notes of blackberry schnapps and vodka hit all the right spots.

It was a nostalgic throwback to those childhood days of enjoying fruity candy, with an adult twist. That playful combination made it clear that the Swedish Fish Shot isn’t just for parties; it’s perfect for any occasion when you want to mix things up and have some fun.

Short Description

The Swedish Fish Shot is a vibrant, candy-inspired cocktail combining vodka, 100 proof blackberry schnapps, and cranberry juice. Sweet, tart, and bold, it’s a playful shooter perfect for parties and themed gatherings.

Key Ingredients

• ½ oz 100 Proof Blackberry Schnapps
• ½ oz Vodka
• ½ oz Cranberry Juice

Tools Needed

• Jigger or shot glass for measuring
• Cocktail shaker or mixing glass
• Strainer (if shaking)
• Small serving shot glasses

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Chill your ingredients
Before mixing, place the vodka, schnapps, and cranberry juice in the fridge for at least 20 minutes.

Step 2: Measure and pour
In a cocktail shaker, combine ½ oz vodka, ½ oz 100 proof blackberry schnapps, and ½ oz cranberry juice.

Use a jigger for precision—you want equal parts of each for the perfect flavor balance.

Step 3: Shake or stir
Add a few ice cubes into the shaker and shake for about 10 seconds, just enough to chill and mix thoroughly.

If you prefer not to shake, stir briskly with ice for 15–20 seconds to get that same chill.

Step 4: Strain and serve
Strain the mixture into a standard 1.5 oz shot glass. The liquid should be ruby red, vibrant, and slightly aromatic with a berry-rich scent. Serve immediately while cold.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

– Takes less than 5 minutes from start to finish

– Perfect for themed parties, girls’ nights, or holiday shots

– No special skills or bartending tools required

– Easy to scale up for a crowd

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

Mistake 1: Using low-proof schnapps
Low-proof alternatives won’t carry the same depth of flavor. Look for 100 proof specifically to mimic that bold Swedish Fish profile.

Solution: If you can’t find blackberry schnapps, use a berry liqueur and add a drop of cherry extract to intensify the flavor.

Mistake 2: Overdiluting with ice
Shaking too long waters down the shot and mutes the sweetness.

Solution: Shake no more than 10 seconds. If you’re stirring, do it briskly but briefly—just until chilled.

Mistake 3: Too much cranberry juice
The cranberry adds brightness, but too much makes the drink overly tart.

Solution: Stick to equal parts. Measure carefully to keep it balanced.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve chilled in shot glasses as part of a fun cocktail flight. These work great as welcome drinks for birthday parties or bachelorette nights. Pair with fruity desserts like berry tarts or light vanilla cupcakes for a matching flavor vibe.

If you’re going for a theme, garnish the tray with a few Swedish Fish candies or rim glasses with red sugar for extra flair. Serve family-style on a platter or arrange them on an ice-filled tray for easy grabbing.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage: If you’re mixing a batch in advance, store in an airtight bottle in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Keep chilled: Serve straight from the fridge to maintain that refreshing pop.

No reheating needed: This shot is served cold—avoid leaving it at room temperature too long or it may taste flat.

Batch tip: Mix a larger quantity using the same 1:1:1 ratio and keep chilled in a pitcher for party-style servings.

FAQs

1. Can I make this without alcohol for a mocktail version?
Yes! Use blackberry-flavored soda or syrup, cranberry juice, and a splash of sparkling water.

2. What can I use if I can’t find 100 proof blackberry schnapps?
Try regular blackberry liqueur with a dash of vodka or cherry extract to strengthen the flavor.

3. Can I mix a batch ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely. Scale the recipe up using the same 1:1:1 ratio and store it in a chilled bottle.

4. Will this shot be too strong for some people?
It’s bold but balanced. If concerned, you can reduce the schnapps slightly and increase cranberry juice to mellow it.

5. Can I serve it in a cocktail glass instead of a shot?
Yes! Pour over ice in a rocks glass and top with a splash of club soda for a light cocktail twist.

Tips & Tricks

– Rim shot glasses with red sanding sugar for a fun party presentation.

– Garnish with an actual Swedish Fish candy on a cocktail pick.

– Use crushed ice instead of cubes when shaking for quicker chilling.

– Want it sweeter? Add a tiny splash of grenadine for extra candy flavor.

– Keep ingredients cold so you don’t need to use much ice, preserving flavor strength.

Recipe Variations

Cherry Twist Version
Swap blackberry schnapps for cherry liqueur and follow the same ratios. The flavor becomes more like cherry candy, and the color stays vivid red.

Sparkling Swedish Fish Cocktail
Use the same ingredients but double the cranberry juice and pour into a highball glass over ice. Top with lemon-lime soda for a refreshing twist.

Blue Raspberry Shot
Replace cranberry juice with blue raspberry lemonade and use blueberry schnapps instead. The result is bright blue and perfect for color-themed parties.

Frozen Candy Shot
Blend all ingredients with a handful of ice to create a slushy shooter. Serve in mini glasses with crushed candy sprinkled on top.

Final Thoughts

The Swedish Fish Shot is one of those rare recipes that brings together fun, flavor, and simplicity in a single glass. The bold berry flavor and striking color never fail to spark conversations, and honestly, it’s become a tiny tradition every time friends come over. We all need that one go-to party drink, and this might just be it. It doesn’t require fancy tools or ingredients, and yet it leaves a lasting impression.

Every time I see that crimson-red shot lined up, I know it’s going to be a good night. If you’re ready to shake up your cocktail routine and make something fun, try this—you’ll be surprised by how quickly it disappears.