If you’re looking for a Purple Rain recipe, this version is fruity, vibrant and easy to make at home. A classic Purple Rain combines vodka, blue curaçao, cranberry juice and lemonade for a bright, juicy cocktail with a bold purple finish that is perfect for parties and easy entertaining.
Quick answer
Prep time: 3 minutes
Serves: 1
Glass: Highball
Garnish: Lemon wheel and blackberry
What is in a Purple Rain?
A Purple Rain is usually made with vodka, blue curaçao, cranberry juice and lemonade or lemon-lime soda. The combination creates the signature purple colour and gives the drink a sweet, citrusy and easy-drinking finish.
Ingredients
- 35ml vodka
- 15ml blue curaçao
- 50ml cranberry juice
- 75ml lemonade
- 10ml fresh lime juice
- Ice
- 1 lemon wheel, to garnish
- 1 blackberry, to garnish
How to make a Purple Rain
- Fill a highball glass with plenty of ice.
- Add the vodka, blue curaçao, cranberry juice and lime juice.
- Top with lemonade.
- Stir gently until chilled.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel and blackberry.
- Serve immediately.
Tips for the best Purple Rain
- Use chilled cranberry juice and lemonade so the drink stays crisp.
- Add a little fresh lime juice to stop it tasting too sweet.
- Serve in a clear glass so the colour stands out.
- Don’t over-stir or the lemonade will lose its sparkle.
- Use plenty of ice for a cleaner finish.
Purple Rain FAQs
What alcohol is in a Purple Rain?
A Purple Rain is usually made with vodka and blue curaçao.
Why is a Purple Rain cocktail purple?
The purple colour comes from mixing blue curaçao with red cranberry juice.
Is a Purple Rain sweet?
It is usually fruity and easy-drinking, but fresh lime helps balance the sweetness.
Can you make a Purple Rain without lemonade?
Yes, but lemonade gives the drink a lighter, fresher finish and helps make it more refreshing.
You might also like
- Blue Daiquiri – for another colourful citrus-led serve.
- Boozy Taster Pack – a great way to explore more cocktail flavours.
Final pour
A Purple Rain is all about bright fruit flavour, bold colour and a fun party-style finish. If you enjoy vibrant easy-drinking cocktails, it’s a great one to keep in the mix.
