On this fine Fall Saturday morning, a week before Halloween, I remembered I had a stash of frozen blood orange juice in the freezer. You may remember my blog on said fruit back in the Winter months (it can be found under the Food Fetish tab). While it was thawing, I started imagining an adult beverage using the juice.

So I concocted the “Blood Sucker” a very appropriate Halloween adult libation that is wickedly good! It was only 10 a.m. when I assembled my first batch—yes, I did have a small taste—and a drink worth waiting for when cocktail time rolls around…

• 1 1/2 cups fresh squeezed blood orange juice, strained
• 1 1/2 Tbsp. fresh squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 cup simple syrup
• 1/4 cup Pomegranate Liqueur (I used Pama)
• 1/2 cup premium vodka
• Mint garnish (optional)

Simple Syrup

• 1 cup white sugar
• one cup water

In a small saucepan, bring sugar and water to a boil; simmer until the sugar is dissolved, 3 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool completely. The syrup can be refrigerated in a glass jar for up to 1 month.

Make up the simple syrup ahead of time and let cool. Then combine all ingredients in container of choice. Chill in refrigerator for at least an hour. When ready to imbibe, pour over crushed ice or straight into glass. Garnish with mint sprig.

Enjoy!