How to Make Fun & Festive Grinch Shots for the Holidays

Every holiday season, I love finding ways to bring a little extra fun to my get-togethers, and these Grinch Shots do just that. They’re bright green, super simple to make, and guaranteed to make everyone smile. Whether you’re hosting a big Christmas party or just having a cozy night in with friends, these little shots bring a festive touch that feels playful and a little bit mischievous.

The best part is how easy they are to put together. With just a couple of ingredients, you can have a whole tray ready in no time. I like to think of them as a cheerful nod to the Grinch himself. Green and cheeky, but secretly full of holiday spirit. Add a maraschino cherry at the bottom, and you’ve got that perfect pop of red that makes them extra cute and festive.

I’ve made these for everything from cookie exchanges to Christmas movie marathons, and they’re always a hit. They look impressive on the table, but honestly, anyone can make them without fuss. If you want to add a little holiday magic to your celebrations, these Grinch Shots are the perfect way to do it. They’re a crowd-pleaser, a conversation starter, and just plain fun!

Ingredients

• 4 Ounces Midori – This gives the shots their signature festive green color and a sweet melon flavor.

• 4 Ounces Coconut Rum – A splash of coconut rum adds a smooth tropical twist that pairs perfectly with the Midori.

• 4 Maraschino Cherries (optional) – Pop one in for a fun red surprise at the bottom that makes these shots extra festive.

Recipe Instructions

You can find a printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

1. Pour the Midori and coconut rum into a cocktail shaker.

2. Shake gently, then divide the mixture evenly among 4 shot glasses (or more if using smaller ones).

3. Drop a cherry into the bottom of each glass after removing the stem or place them in before pouring if you prefer. Sip and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Grinch Shots

• I like to chill the shot glasses in the freezer for a few minutes before pouring so the shots stay nice and cold.

• If you want an extra festive look, rim the glasses with a little red sugar for that classic Grinchy color combo.

• Don’t skip the gentle shake in the cocktail shaker, it blends the flavors without making them too frothy.

• You can drop the cherries in before or after pouring, but I think they look cutest when you pour over them.

• If you’re making a bigger batch for a party, just mix the Midori and coconut rum in a pitcher and keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve.

Serving

• I love serving these on a holiday tray with a sprinkle of fake snow (powdered sugar works too) for a fun festive vibe.

• If you’re hosting a bigger crowd, line the shot glasses up in rows and let the bright green color do the decorating for you.

• These are best enjoyed right after pouring, so make them just before you’re ready to serve.

• For a playful touch, serve them while watching How the Grinch Stole Christmas, it always gets a laugh.

• You can even swap out the cherries for candy hearts if you want to lean into the “Grinch’s heart grew three sizes” theme.

Storing

• These shots are really best made fresh, but if you need to prep ahead, you can mix the Midori and coconut rum in a sealed jar or pitcher and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

• Just give the mixture a quick shake or stir before pouring so everything blends nicely again.

• Don’t add the cherries until you’re ready to serve or they’ll lose their bright red color sitting in the liquid too long.

• If you end up with leftovers (though that rarely happens in my house), pop them in the fridge and enjoy within a day.