The melon ball is a delicious, fruity vodka shooter that's a lot of fun at parties. It has a tropical fruit flavor thanks to the melon liqueur (most often Midori) and pineapple juice, a taste that's hard to resist.
![Melon ball party shot](https://www.thespruceeats.com/thmb/T2fQ-1gtf5K8av5wKWE7Z6IUzbI=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/melon-ball-cocktail-recipe-759735-hero-01-b4e8567fdc12478a8a6d5b49c4768f2d.jpg)
The Spruce Eats / Preethi Venkatram
How Strong Is a Melon Ball Shot?
This shot not only tastes great, but it's also one of the lightest shooters you can mix up. On average, its alcohol content is just 17 percent ABV (34 proof), or slightly stronger than wine. Do be careful, though—the sweet taste can trick you into drinking more, and a few rounds will add up.
As far as vodka shots go, this is one of the tastiest you will find. Actually, it may be a little too good because it's easy to have one too many. If you're looking for a green shot to match a holiday or party theme, mix up a few melon balls and everyone is sure to have a great time.
What Type of Vodka Should I Use?
Shots are drunk quickly, so the choice of vodka is not as important in this drink as it would be in a cocktail. To help it go down smoother, it's always a good idea to choose your vodka wisely. The great news is that there are many great-tasting vodkas available that don't cost a fortune. From New Amsterdam to Svedka, it's rather easy to find a clean-tasting and budget-friendly vodka for drinks like this.
If you want to add a little extra flavor to your melon ball shots, pick a flavored vodka. Stick with fruit flavors like strawberry, raspberry, or citrus to add a new twist. Since the shot includes pineapple, a coconut vodka would be a lot of fun as well. It's also a good recipe for your favorite marshmallow vodka.
“Enjoy the classic Melon Ball Cocktail in shooter form. This fruity cocktail has been a longtime favorite and, like many favorites, it seems to be coming back into popularity. It’s easy to make and a great batch-made shooter for parties.” —Joan Velush
![Melon ball party shooter on a silver platter](https://www.thespruceeats.com/thmb/p-FskVieSaL-h98J1I1U5H1fYXg=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/melon-ball-cocktail-recipe-759735-Joan-Velush-2022-a4d601892d784d80853b7fcb86b3d596.jpeg)
Ingredients
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1/2 ounce vodka
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1/4 ounce melon liqueur
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1/4 ounce pineapple juice
Steps to Make It
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Gather the ingredients.
The Spruce Eats / Preethi Venkatram
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In a mixing glass or small pitcher, pour the 1/2 ounce vodka, 1/4 ounce melon liqueur, and 1/4 ounce pineapple juice.
The Spruce Eats / Preethi Venkatram
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Add ice and stir well.
The Spruce Eats / Preethi Venkatram
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Strain into a shot glass and serve.
The Spruce Eats / Preethi Venkatram
Feeling Adventurous? Try this:
- Make it icy - If you like, feel free to shake this shot with ice. It will have an extra effervescence that stirring doesn't provide.
- Shots, shots, shots! - Since it's only a 1 1/2-ounce shooter, you can easily make three or four at one time. Just increase the ingredients proportionally, line up the shot glasses on your bar, and fill each glass, pouring down the line.
- Make it a cocktail - Start with a shot (1 1/2 ounces) of vodka, then pour 3/4 ounce each of the melon liqueur and pineapple juice. Give the mix a good shake and strain it into a cocktail glass or over fresh ice in a highball glass. Topping it off with a little club soda or ginger ale is an excellent idea as well.
Nutrition Facts (per serving) | |
---|---|
36 | Calories |
0g | Fat |
1g | Carbs |
0g | Protein |
Nutrition Facts | |
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Servings: 1 | |
Amount per serving | |
Calories | 36 |
% Daily Value* | |
Total Fat 0g | 0% |
Saturated Fat 0g | 0% |
Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
Sodium 0mg | 0% |
Total Carbohydrate 1g | 0% |
Dietary Fiber 0g | 0% |
Total Sugars 1g | |
Protein 0g | |
Vitamin C 3mg | 17% |
Calcium 1mg | 0% |
Iron 0mg | 0% |
Potassium 10mg | 0% |
*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice. |