There are some flavours that take you straight back to childhood, and bubblegum is one of them. One whiff and I’m thinking of pink sweets, party bags and trying to blow a bubble without getting gum stuck in my hair. Turning that flavour into a vodka infusion is a rather cheeky way to bring a little of that nostalgia to an adults-only party.
Bubblegum vodka is especially fun if you want a pink drink without making a complicated cocktail. You put the gum and vodka in a jar, give the flavour time to develop, then strain it before serving. The finished infusion can be poured over ice with lemonade or mixed with something tart if you prefer your drinks less sweet.
We first shared bubblegum vodka on CraftGossip back in 2010, and I can see why it caught our eye. It is the sort of kitchen experiment that makes guests lean over the drinks table and ask, “What is that?” Make a small batch the first time, though. Bubblegum brands vary in sweetness, colour and flavour, and a little taste test will tell you how you want to serve yours.
If you enjoy making your own flavoured spirits, we’ve also featured strawberry-infused vodka with printable bottle tags for a summery gift idea and conversation heart vodka for a Valentine’s Day twist. Bubblegum is the one I’d choose for a retro birthday or a pink-themed girls’ night.
What You’ll Need
- 250 ml plain vodka
- 4 pieces of individually wrapped, classic pink bubblegum
- A clean jar with a tight-fitting lid
- A fine sieve or coffee filter
- A clean bottle or jar for the strained vodka
Choose a sweet pink bubblegum rather than sugar-free gum for your first batch. Check the packet for ingredients and allergens if you’re serving guests.
How to Make Bubblegum-Infused Vodka
- Prepare the gum. Unwrap the pieces and cut each one into smaller chunks with clean scissors.
- Fill the jar. Put the gum in the jar, pour over the vodka and seal the lid.
- Let it infuse. Leave the sealed jar in the fridge overnight. Give it a gentle shake once or twice.
- Check the flavour. Taste a little. If you want a stronger bubblegum flavour, let it sit longer and check it again.
- Strain and serve. Remove the larger gum pieces, then pour the vodka through a fine sieve or coffee filter into a clean jar. A coffee filter can help catch smaller bits, although it may drain slowly.
Make the infusion ahead of your party so you have time to check the flavour and strain it before guests arrive.
What Can You Mix With Bubblegum Vodka?
Bubblegum vodka is sweet, so start with a simple mixer and plenty of ice. Try it with:
- Lemonade for a sweet, fizzy party drink
- Soda water and a squeeze of lemon to balance the sweetness
- Cranberry juice for a pink drink with a little tartness
Mix one small glass before making a whole jug. It is much easier to add more bubblegum flavour than to rescue a pitcher that tastes like the entire confectionery aisle.
If you’re setting up a party drinks table, keep the vodka clearly labelled and separate from alcohol-free options. Our bubblegum milkshake slushie would make a fun separate treat. For
