Melon Ball Shot

By Steve Kilcullen Jump to Recipe

With its neon green look and fruity, tropically-tinged flavor, the Melon Ball Shot could become your newest party favor.

Tonight’s recipe is another bright-looking and hard-to-miss creation, the Melon Ball Shot. I scoured the internet and even asked a few of my older friends who the mixologist was that originally came up with this concoction, but my detective work came up empty. I’m also technically not a detective, or P.I., nor have I played one on television. Most of the roles I’ve booked were all bad guys, crooks and generally sleazy people, so even my fictional background isn’t up to snuff. Don’t let that fool you, though, I’m really an okay guy.

Turns out the Melon Ball Shot, which is comprised of vodka, Midori and pineapple juice, is another one of those creations that doesn’t seem to have a specific history. Sure, somebody, somewhere, had to have mixed these ingredients together for the first time and discovered it was good, but there are so many alcoholic beverages out there whose history is muddled, or just altogether a mystery. Most folks agree that tonight’s shot probably first popped up in the 1970s and 1980s, but that’s as specific as things get.

I hear the name of this shot, and my brain automatically goes back to an episode of Saturday Night Live from the late seventies, which I caught in a rerun on Nick At Nite years ago. Gilda Radner was having a bridal shower, and one of the gifts she opened was a melon baller. Clearly a little confused as to what to do with that particular piece of homeware, the audience cackled along as it seemed nobody really knew what they’d do with it. But now, after writing about the Melon Ball Shot, I figure anybody who owns one could put it to good use and whip up a tray of these shooters for their next party. That’s a bit of a stretch maybe, but how many people do you know who own a melon baller?

Let me know in the comments!

What Is The Best Alcohol To Use In A Melon Ball Shot?

Because we’ll be shaking this shot up using Midori melon liqueur and the freshest pineapple juice money can buy, it is best to opt for an unflavored and “plain” vodka. A wheat-distilled spirit will have a peppery, crisp sip, while some potato-made versions have a little extra heat on the finish. A corn-distilled vodka, like Tito’s, is going to be sweeter, so choose one based on how you’ll want your shot to go down. If you’re feeling adventurous, try any number of flavored versions, like strawberry, cotton candy or even marshmallow vodkas.

WHAT GLASSWARE AND GARNISH ARE USED?

Take a standard shot glass and chill it in your freezer for around fifteen to thirty minutes. This isn’t necessary, but I like doing this with my glassware as you end up with an extra cold and smooth drink. Once your shot is poured and ready, pop a melon ball in for garnish.

CAN THIS RECIPE BE MADE AS A REGULAR-SIZED COCKTAIL?

It can be. You can measure the ingredients up to about an ounce and a half or two ounces, shaking equal parts together. Try playing with the ratios too, to adjust to your palate. There is also a recipe out there for a Melon Ball cocktail that uses orange juice in place of pineapple.

Other Shots Worth Trying

If the Melon Ball Shot, with its fruity and tart sweetness, has gotten you interested in other shooter recipes, you’ll be pleased to discover that Twist & Toast has a nice collection of them that you can make at home and try with your friends. And if the vodka and fruit piqued your cravings for similar-tasting treats, check these out this weekend.

• Kamikaze Shot – Vodka, triple sec and lime juice create this party favorite.
• Jolly Rancher Shot – Serve candy-flavored shooters at your next soirée with this delicious recipe.
• Wet Pussy – Sounds naughty, but this vodka-based shot tastes amazing.
• Pink Starburst – Vanilla vodka and watermelon schnapps bring this sweet treat to life.