Cactus Cooler Shot Recipe: How To Make It (2023 Updated)

Last Updated on December 29, 2022 by Lydia Martin

Are you looking for a fun new drink to spice up the bar party? Or do you want a perfect summer drink to end your long exhausting week?

No matter what reason, a Cactus Cooler shot is a refreshing, easy-to-make drink that will surely splash out your stress.

So, drop the shot glass, and let’s know more about this chilling drink.

What’s A Cactus Cooler Shot?

The Cactus Cooler shot drink is shot dropped into a larger glass of energy soda – which you need to drink all at once. This Cactus cooler drink has a “wow” factor due to its sweet taste and refreshing feel. 

This cocktail is a mixed drink containing various types of drinks in it, like Mandarin vodka and energy drink (say, Red Bull). It also includes orange juice (or any fruit juice). 

Fun fact: The name of this cocktail drink is derived from a canned orange/pineapple beverage primarily sold in Southern California – manufactured by Dr. Pepper Brand. 

What It Tastes Like

A Cactus Cooler cocktail shot tastes like Jagerbomb drinks, minus the intense flavor. As mentioned earlier, creating your own signature shooter or mix is possible.

So you can expect to find a different taste of this beverage from one pub or bar to another.  

This Cactus Cooler cocktail usually has a splash of orange juice – sometimes with a mix of peach schnapps flavor, served in a shot glass. 

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Cactus Cooler Shot Variations 

Alcohol-Free Version 

Instead of Mandarin vodka and peach schnapps, you can replace them with orange juice and pineapple juice. This is more on the fruity side, and since it’s alcohol-free, it’s suitable for your teens or kids.

Top It With Lemonade

There isn’t actually much deviation from the original recipe, but you can top your pint glass or shot glass with lemonade. It isn’t your typical shot but it’s a drink you can enjoy in your leisure time. 

Change The Energy Drink

You can also replace the energy drink with a flavored one (or just skip this entirely). If you’re not into energy drinks [1], you can substitute them with mango, tropical, or orange-flavored drinks.  

The Best Cactus Cooler Shot Recipe 

Prep Time: 1 minute or less 

Total Time: 2 minutes

Ingredients: 

• Energy drink or soda (like Red Bull)
• 1 oz orange juice
• ½ oz peach schnapps
• 1 oz Mandarin vodka (can use orange vodka)

Instructions: Fill one-third of your larger glass with energy soda, then fill your shot glass with Mandarin vodka and peach schnapps.

Next, carefully drop your shot glass into the larger glass. To add some extra coloring and flavoring, add some orange juice, and serve. 

Note: You may need a cocktail shaker for a well-mixed cocktail. 

Serving: 1

FAQs 

Can kids drink a Cactus Cooler shot?

Yes, kids can drink a Cactus Cooler shot as long as it’s alcohol-free. Make sure to make a Cactus Cooler shot recipe without any alcohol mix. You can use substitutes like fruity juices to replace the liquor. 

How many calories are in a Cactus Cooler shot?

A Cactus Cooler shot usually contains 150 calories. But this calorie content may still vary depending on your Cactus Cooler shot recipe. The calories per glass may range between 120 to 150, but it’s fat-free. 

Final Thoughts

A Cactus Cooler shot was inspired by a canned beverage native to Southern California, one of the summer delights that make drinkers refreshed and chilled. 

Though there are several recipe variations that you might find in each bar you go to, you can still savor its classy orange and lemon flavors. 

Also, you can make your own Cactus Cooler shot at home with the recipe we mentioned. Mixed with vodka and energy soda served in a shot glass, this is an ideal summer delight. 

Reference:

1. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/energy-drinks/