🎂 The Killer Birthday Martini

A deceptively sweet vodka cocktail that hides a deadly twist – like a party that just won’t end.

Skill Level:

Medium — shake, strain, and layer for a polished look worthy of a “final girl.”

Killer Birthday Martini

A deceptively sweet vodka cocktail that hides a deadly twist - like a party that just won’t end.

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Equipment

cocktail shaker
Jigger Or measuring spoons
Coupe or martini glass
Bar Spoon
Ice, cubed

Ingredients

1 1/2 ounce Vanilla vodka
3/4 ounce Creme de cacao white
3/4 ounce Irish cream liqueur
1/2 ounce Freshly brewed espresso or strong cold brew
1/4 ounce Grenadine for that "bloody" swirl
Optional garnish: chocolate shavings or a cherry dropped through the center for a “bullseye” effect.

Instructions

Chill a coupe or martini glass.
Add vanilla vodka, crème de cacao, Irish cream, and espresso to a shaker with ice.
Shake well until cold and velvety.
Strain into the chilled glass.
Slowly drizzle grenadine into the center - it’ll sink and swirl like blood in cream.
Garnish and serve immediately before time resets.

Notes

Why It Works

The Killer Birthday Martini balances the innocence of cake and cream with the dark bite of coffee and grenadine’s blood-red swirl. It’s rich but not heavy, easy to sip, and visually striking — a party trick in a glass. Every layer tells a story: sweet beginnings, dark middles, and a dramatic finish. It’s the perfect toast to second chances, bad decisions, and living the same day until you finally get it right.

Pro Tips & Variations

Sweeter touch: Rim the glass with vanilla frosting and sprinkles for a literal birthday vibe.
More bite: Add an extra ¼ oz espresso for a stronger coffee kick.
Easy version: Skip the layering and mix grenadine into the shaker for an even hue.
Mocktail version (coming soon!): Sweet cream, chocolate syrup, espresso, and grenadine. Same look, no peril.

Movie Pairing

Pair with: Happy Death Day
Like the film, this cocktail starts cute and bright before revealing a darker edge. It’s playful, unexpected, and a little indulgent – ideal for a horror-comedy about self-discovery, serial killers, and bad birthdays.