This pink polar bear cocktail is a great mixed drink for winter. With just 4 ingredients and ice, it’s a simple cocktail to make, so it’s perfect for entertaining. The color lends itself well to your Pinkmas pink Christmas celebration, as well as Valentine’s Day, but you can enjoy it anytime!
I love simple cocktails, especially when it comes to the holiday season. That’s because they’re quick to make, so you can get back to enjoying time with your friends and family that much sooner.
The pink polar bear uses just 4 ingredients and takes 5 minutes or less to throw together! The flavor profile is akin to a milkshake in liquid form, which is sure to help break the ice (you know, like polar bears are good at)!
Like most cocktails, there are a few different options you have to put it together, so you can adjust for what you have on hand (or what your liquor store has).
One “must” though is grenadine, which gives this drink its beautiful pink color. It’s perfect for Valentine’s Day, the trendy pink Christmas (Pinkmas) celebration, or any wintery day! Note that the shade and overall look may vary slightly with different brands.
Ingredients List
1 ounce vodka
1 ounce coffee liquor (such as Tia Maria)
1 ounce grenadine syrup
2-4 ounces milk (use more for a weaker drink)
Ice cubes
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
Plain vodka is best for this, though you could use vanilla vodka as well. You can also substitute gin or rum in this recipe if you don’t like vodka, but it’s a variation that will alter the flavor (still delicious, though)
Any coffee liquor is fine. I have Tia Maria, but you can sub in Kahlua, or another coffee liquor of your choice
If you don’t have grenadine, you can use maraschino cherry juice in a pinch, or make a syrup of 1 part pomegranate juice to 2 parts simple syrup
Instead of milk, you could use half and half or heavy cream (but it will be much richer tasting that way, more akin to a White Russian). I stick with 2% milk personally, as I find it strikes the right balance for me
You can substitute non-dairy milk as well, but it will change the flavor profile slightly. I recommend almond or coconut
Step By Step Instructions
To a shaker add vodka, coffee liquor, milk, and grenadine along with a few ice cubes. If you don’t have a shaker, you may just add everything to a glass and stir well
Shake for about 30 seconds until well chilled and blended, then strain into a glass filled with ice
Garnish with a maraschino cherry if desired, and enjoy!
Pairing Suggestions
Snacks and Appetizers
Fresh Fruit Platter: The cocktail’s fruity notes harmonize with the sweetness of fresh fruits like strawberries, watermelon, and raspberries.
Caprese Skewers: The tangy flavors of tomatoes and mozzarella beautifully contrast the drink’s sweetness.
Creamy Brie or Camembert: The mild creaminess of these cheeses balances the cocktail’s sweetness.
Aged Cheddar: The sharper flavor of aged cheddar provides an interesting contrast to the drink’s fruity notes.
Bruschetta: The acidity of the tomatoes in bruschetta, like my Air Fryer Bruschetta recipe, provides a delightful contrast to the cocktail’s sweetness.
Smoked Salmon Crostini: The richness of the salmon complements the cocktail’s lighter fruity notes.
Entrees
Grilled Chicken Salad: The lightness of the salad pairs well with the refreshing and fruity qualities of the cocktail. It would also pair well with Air Fryer Bruschetta Chickenas a combination between this and an appetizer!
Citrus-Marinated Grilled Shrimp: The tangy citrus marinade complements the drink’s vibrant flavors.
Desserts
Vanilla Ice Cream: Its creamy texture and subtle sweetness create a delightful contrast to the cocktail’s flavors.
Lemon Tart: The zesty tartness of lemon complements the cocktail’s fruitiness without overpowering its flavors.
Tiramisu. Creamy, rich mascarpone and coffee notes are an ideal pairing with this cocktail. Try my simple Tiramisu Mug Cake recipe for a quick option!
Recipe FAQs
What Ingredients Are in a Pink Polar Bear Cocktail?
The Pink Polar Bear cocktail typically comprises vodka, grenadine, coffee liquor, and milk.
These ingredients, when combined, create a refreshing and creamy beverage that will remind you of a milkshake.
What’s the Origin Story Behind the Name of This Cocktail?
The name “Pink Polar Bear” stems from the cocktail’s appearance and flavor profile, inspired by a polar bear against a snowy landscape. The arctic light often makes them appear pink, hence the nod.
It’s also what differentiates it from a polar bear cocktail (not pink), which features chocolate mint flavors instead.
What Are the Ideal Garnishes for a Pink Polar Bear Cocktail?
Consider garnishing with a maraschino cherry to complement the cocktail’s fruity profile and hue. However, this cocktail is also fine to be served with no garnishes.
You could also add a patterned straw or a cocktail umbrella for a different twist.
Recipe Pro Tips
Glassware. Traditionally, the pink polar bear is served in a rocks or old fashioned glass, or doubled and served in a highball or Collins style glass. However, it’s very forgiving and could be served in a pint glass, martini glass, or anything else similar
For a pitcher simply scale up the recipe to the desired number of servings (it scales very well for a party setting). Mix well, then pour into individual glasses filled with ice to serve. The drink will separate as it sits, so you may need to mix periodically!
Storage and Serving Tips
Garnishes are completely optional with this drink. However, consider a maraschino cherry to compliment the color of the cocktail, or a fun straw or drink umbrella!
Feel free to mix the alcohols and grenadine up to a week in advance. Add the milk and stir to incorporate just before serving. Do not add ice to the mixture if you make it ahead of time, to prevent dilution
Whether you’re celebrating pink Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or just looking for a new, fun winter mixed drink to try, you’re going to love this pink polar bear cocktail.
It’s just the right balance of creamy, fruity, and smooth that gives off milkshake vibes! Your guests will love this drink, and you will too, since it’s so easy to make. Just 4 ingredients and 5 minutes or less is all it takes.
If you’re looking for more holiday cocktails to round out your party, make sure to check out my Peppermint Bark Mimosa for brunch or some Microwave Mulled Wine for a hot drink option!
Easy Pink Polar Bear Cocktail
Just 4 ingredients and 5 minutes or less is all it takes to make this pink polar bear cocktail. It’s perfect for winter, Christmas, or Valentine’s Day, and easy to make for guests.
To a shaker add vodka, coffee liquor, milk, and grenadine along with a few ice cubes. If you don’t have a shaker, you may just add everything to a glass and stir well
Shake for about 30 seconds until well chilled and blended, then strain into a glass filled with ice
Garnish with a maraschino cherry if desired, and enjoy!
Notes
Plain vodka is best for this, though you could use vanilla vodka as well. You can also substitute gin or rum in this recipe if you don’t like vodka, but it’s a variation that will alter the flavor (still delicious, though)
Any coffee liquor is fine. I have Tia Maria, but you can sub in Kahlua, or another coffee liquor of your choice
If you don’t have grenadine, you can use maraschino cherry juice in a pinch, or make a syrup of 1 part pomegranate juice to 2 parts simple syrup
Instead of milk, you could use half and half or heavy cream (but it will be much richer tasting that way, more akin to a White Russian). I stick with 2% milk personally, as I find it strikes the right balance for me
You can substitute non-dairy milk as well, but it will change the flavor profile slightly
For a pitcher simply scale up the recipe to the desired number of servings (it scales very well for a party setting). Mix well, then pour into individual glasses filled with ice to serve. The drink will separate as it sits, so you may need to mix periodically!
Garnishes are completely optional with this drink. However, consider a maraschino cherry to compliment the color of the cocktail, or a fun straw or drink umbrella!
Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand of ingredients, any alterations or garnishes, and actual quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
I enjoy trying new recipes, creating my own, and dabbling with new techniques all the time. My husband loves to protest when I make him my guinea pig, but it’s all for the love of food!
My cooking philosophy is that great tasting food doesn't have to be complicated or time consuming to make. I'm a home cook with over 20 years of experience feeding myself and others. I've learned from a variety of different people, things I've learned online, and some trial and error as well.
I enjoy cooking a variety of foods, from convenience to comfort foods, as well as international cuisine. You can rest assured that all of my recipes have been actually made, thoroughly tested, and most importantly: tasted! I want you to enjoy my food as much as I do!
