Ruby Tuesday’s Killer Kool-Aid was popular for a reason: it tasted like a throwback to childhood Kool-Aid, but with a smooth, grown-up finish. Since it is no longer on the menu, this CopyKat.com recipe recreates that same restaurant-style sweet-tart balance with Southern Comfort, amaretto, and cranberry juice for the signature color and bite. It is the kind of easy cocktail that fits right in at a backyard barbecue or a lazy poolside Saturday.
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Why This Recipe Works
The key is balance. Southern Comfort and amaretto bring sweetness and fruit-forward flavor, so the drink needs a tart counterpoint to keep it refreshing instead of heavy. Cranberry juice does that job while also giving the cocktail its classic ruby color. Served ice-cold, the flavors stay bright, and the finish stays crisp.
Cocktail Base
- Southern Comfort – Provides fruity complexity with pronounced apricot notes
- Amaretto – Contributes sweet almond flavor and syrupy richness
- Pure cranberry juice – Delivers essential tartness to balance sweetness
- Ice – Chills and dilutes for perfect drinking temperature
Optional Garnish
- Maraschino cherries – Adds visual appeal and extra sweetness if desired
How to Make a Killer Kool-Aid Cocktail
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Add Southern Comfort.
- Add Amaretto.
- Fill to the top with cranberry juice.
- Garnish with cherries if desired.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Ice Quality: Use fresh, clean ice to avoid off-flavors that can ruin the delicate balance.
- Juice Temperature: Chilled cranberry juice creates better integration and immediate drinking temperature.
- Glassware Choice: Highball glasses showcase the beautiful color while providing proper proportions.
How about dessert? Check out this creamy Kool Aid Pie.
Ruby Tuesday Killer Kool Aid – Sweet & Tart Cocktail
Ingredients
- 1 ounce Southern Comfort
- 1 ounce Amaretto
- 4 ounces cranberry juice
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Add Southern Comfort and Amaretto.
- Fill to the top with cranberry juice.
- Garnish with cherries if desired.
Nutrition
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Check out more of my easy cocktail recipes and the best copycat recipes for casual dining restaurants here on CopyKat!
I bet they removed it because it isn’t their recipe. We were drinking these at local bars in Chicago back in the 80s already.
I used to order a drink like this, called World Class Kool-aid”, years ago at a restaurant named Cheddar’s (different from Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen). This is pretty spot-on, except the Cheddar’s version also included vodka.
I am glad you were able to use this recipe to come up with a cocktail you were missing.
I also have a recipe for Killer Koolaide…however mine includes a few more items, everyone that has ever had it has loved it. I agree it is an amazing drink for lazy summer days around a pool
What is your recipe for the Killer Kool Aide?
You do 1oz each of amaretto, vodka, and Mellon liquor or peach schnapps and fill rest with cranberry juice and ice. This is the original recipe. I’ve never seen southern comfort a recipe for this drink.
so what is it?
This is great for a lazy Saturday afternoon! I made it for a BBQ and all my friends loved it!