Sweet Caroline Cocktail Recipe

Sweet Caroline Nutrition Facts

Calories:250

Fat:0g

Protein:0g

Carbohydrates:30g

Alcohol:10%

Created by

Nic Polotnianko

I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.

Last Updated: August 23, 2024

History

The Sweet Caroline cocktail is named after the famous song by Neil Diamond, which was released in 1969. This cocktail became popular among fans of the song and is often enjoyed at parties and celebrations. It is a favorite among those who enjoy fruity and sweet cocktails.

  • The cocktail was created in the late 1960s
  • It gained popularity among fans of Neil Diamond's song 'Sweet Caroline'
  • Often enjoyed at parties and celebrations

How Sweet Caroline Tastes?

The Sweet Caroline cocktail is a delightful combination of sweet, fruity, and slightly tangy flavors. It has a smooth and refreshing taste, with a hint of citrus and a subtle kick from the alcohol.

Interesting facts about Sweet Caroline

  • The Sweet Caroline cocktail is named after the famous song by Neil Diamond
  • It is a popular choice for celebrations and parties
  • The fruity and sweet flavors make it a favorite among those who enjoy refreshing cocktails

Ingredients

A few good options for Sweet Caroline are:

  • Grey Goose
  • Belvedere
  • Khor
  • Smirnoff

Learn everything on which Vodka to choose

Vodka

The foundation of many cocktails, providing a smooth, clean canvas. At 1.5 oz, it's just enough to give a kick without making you stumble through Neil Diamond's greatest hits. Without vodka, it's no longer a cocktail but a sweet, innocent juice box.

Alex Green

Peach Schnapps

At 0.5 oz, this adds a fruity whisper that says 'summer' without screaming it from the rooftops. It gives the cocktail a sweet, peachy complexity. If omitted, you'd lose the soul of the 'Sweet Caroline'. Alternative? Try apricot brandy for a similar but slightly tangier profile.

Emma Rose

Orange Juice

2 oz of this sunny delight brings vitamin C to the party and a citrusy zing that can't be beaten. OJ plays well with the peach schnapps and the tropical pineapple juice, knitting them together in harmonious flavor. No OJ? You could use tangerine juice for a twist.

Mary Mitkina

Pineapple Juice

Also at 2 oz, it brings tropical vibes faster than a hula dancer's hips. Pineapple juice adds a tangy sweetness and helps balance the strong vodka. Missing out on it would be like a beach party with no sun! Mango juice could be a fun alternative, with an exotic twist.

Alex Green

Grenadine

Just 0.5 oz, but it brings the sunset right into your glass. This sweet, red syrup adds color and a hint of pomegranate flavor. Without it, you'll miss out on the beautiful layering and that final hint of sweetness. A splash of raspberry syrup could switch up the flavor without losing the visual appeal.

Emma Rose

Maraschino Cherry

The proverbial cherry on top adds a sweet finish and a playful touch to the presentation. No cherry, and it's like Neil without his sparkle – still good but not quite complete. A slice of strawberry could stand in for a touch of berry flavor and charm.

Mary Mitkina

Orange Slice

The garnish that dresses to impress. It's a timeless classic that says 'I'm fancy, but also ready to party'. Without this citrusy accessory, the glass would feel naked. A lime wheel might make an interesting, albeit tarter, replacement.

Alex Green

Recipe. How to make Sweet Caroline Drink

  1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice
  2. Add vodka, peach schnapps, orange juice, and pineapple juice
  3. Shake well until chilled
  4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice
  5. Slowly pour grenadine over the back of a spoon to create a layered effect
  6. Garnish with a maraschino cherry and an orange slice

Pro Tips

  • Shake the cocktail shaker vigorously to properly mix the ingredients.
  • Use fresh orange and pineapple juice for a more refreshing taste.
  • Chill the glass before pouring the cocktail to keep it cool for longer.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

  • Grilled Shrimp: The sweetness of the cocktail complements the slight char on the shrimp.
  • Teriyaki Chicken: The fruity flavors can pair nicely with Asian glazes.
  • Summer Salads: Try it with a salad that incorporates fruits like mango or citrus segments.
  • Cheesecake: The richness of the cheesecake alongside the zesty cocktail makes for a delightful combo.

Drink Pairings

  • Sparkling Water: To cleanse the palate between sips.
  • Iced Tea: Preferably unsweetened or with a hint of lemon to offer a contrast.

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What you could change in Sweet Caroline

  • Vodka: Can be replaced with white rum or gin.
  • Peach Schnapps: Can be replaced with peach liqueur or peach brandy.
  • Orange Juice: Can be replaced with grapefruit juice.
  • Pineapple Juice: Can be replaced with apple juice.

Explore all drinks starting with S here

And of course - twists🍹

Coconut Sweet Caroline

  • Substitute vodka with coconut rum for a tropical twist.
  • Use coconut cream in place of peach schnapps for a creamier drink. This version will feel like a liquid beach vacation, with a creamier, more tropical taste that could make you want to dance barefoot in the sand.

Spicy Caroline

  • Muddle some jalapeño slices with the orange juice before shaking.
  • Replace peach schnapps with mango syrup to compliment the heat. This drink will have your taste buds singing with a zingy heat that pairs surprisingly well with the underlying sweet flavors. It's a fiesta in a glass!

Berry Caroline

  • Use raspberry vodka instead of regular vodka.
  • Add a splash of cranberry juice in place of pineapple juice. A berry-licious twist on the original, with a deeper red hue and an added tartness that's berry, berry nice. You'd choose this when you're in the mood for something a bit more complex and bold.

In case you forgot basics how to make Sweet Caroline

Add your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.

Learn everything on how to shake

Place your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.

Learn everything on how to strain

Garnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).

Learn everything on garnishing

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Frequently Asked Questions on Sweet Caroline

How long does it take to prepare a Sweet Caroline cocktail?

The preparation time for a Sweet Caroline can vary, but it generally takes about 5 minutes.

What season is Sweet Caroline best for?

The Sweet Caroline cocktail, with its refreshing and fruity flavors, is perfect for summer.

Why is Neil Diamond's song 'Sweet Caroline' associated with this cocktail?

The cocktail is believed to be named after the song to symbolize the sweet and vibrant taste it offers. The song was popular when this cocktail was created.

Can I make Sweet Caroline cocktail as a mocktail?

Yes, you can replace the vodka and peach schnapps with peach syrup and soda water to make it a mocktail.

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