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If you're looking to add a splash of color to a summer bash or backyard holiday, this Red White Blue kids’ drink totally brightens up the table. The stripes are always a crowd pleaser, plus it’s ridiculously simple with stuff from any supermarket. My niece wanted something as flashy as fireworks for the Fourth and ever since, the kids always race to pour their own.
The first round I made for my niece and nephew had their cousins all lined up, wondering how I got those stripes so perfect. My favorite thing is seeing them get so excited as each bold layer appears—looks kinda like magic.
Vibrant Ingredients
- Blue Kool Aid or blue energy drink: Gets you that bright blue finish Just go for a low sugar option so each color stands out
- Maraschino cherry: Pop one right on top for the classic look Grab the brightest ones for the ultimate finishing touch
- Piña colada mix: Brings in a sweet, creamy white center Chilled with coconut and pineapple for big contrast does the trick
- Grenadine syrup: For a bold red pop Natural pomegranate is best if you can find it
- Cherry 7 Up: Makes a tart, bubbly reddish layer If you use it cold, your stripes look even sharper
- Ice cubes: Keeps each band in place and makes it way easier to pour separated layers The more you use, the better
Step by Step Instructions
- Add the Toppers:
- Put your maraschino cherry over the ice and layers Drop in a cute straw and carry it to the table
- Pour on the Blue:
- Use a spoon against the glass and gently add your blue drink right on top Pouring slow keeps everything clear and separated
- Create the White Band:
- Stick the back of a spoon to the glass inside, then trickle in your chilly piña colada mix This sets a tidy creamy stripe in the middle and fills it up another third
- Layer the Red Starter:
- Blend Cherry 7 Up and grenadine and softly pour it in for the base This makes the sparkly red stripe—fill about one third
- Pack the Ice:
- Tumble loads of ice cubes into your glass up to the rim This really locks each color in place
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I always want to eat the cherry myself—even adults don't pass them up! My family still teases me that I started a July Fourth tradition without realizing it back then.
Storing Made Easy
It tastes best right away but you can totally get the ice and drinks ready ahead. For parties, line up the pitchers and let the kids do their own layering. Just add the cherries and fun straws right before you hand one over.
Ingredient Swaps
If Cherry 7 Up isn’t on the shelf, grab any lemon lime soda and splash in extra grenadine. Any type of blue sports drink or blue raspberry juice works up top. Out of piña colada mix? Stir some coconut milk with pineapple juice and use that instead.
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Ways to Serve
Show off those colors with mason jars or tall clear glasses. Stick in striped straws or flag picks for a fun twist. When it’s party time, toss extra cherries in bowls so everyone can pile on more if they want.
Fun Facts and Traditions
These bright layered drinks pop up at Memorial Day cookouts and Fourth of July gatherings all over the country. Red, white, and blue snacks like this always seem to bring everyone together for summer fun—kids or grownups.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I achieve crisp layers in the drink?
Go nice and slow, pouring each beverage over the back of a spoon. Starting with the thickest one on the bottom keeps those colors sharp and neat.
- → Can I use different blue or red drinks?
Of course! Any blue sports drink or juice, or a fizzy red soda with about the same thickness will work. Just skip anything that easily mixes together.
- → Is this beverage suitable for adults as well?
Everyone can enjoy the sweet flavors and that cool layered look. It stands out with kids but even grown-ups will be into it.
- → What can I use as a garnish?
Throw on a maraschino cherry or swap in bright straws or even cut-up fruit pieces to make things more fun.
- → Do I need special tools to layer the drinks?
Nope, just a plain spoon does the trick. It helps you pour slowly and keep every layer where you want it.
- → How far in advance can I prepare it?
Make it right before you serve so the layers look fresh and the ice stays crunchy.