The Graveyard Shakedown Cocktail Recipe (3-Ingredient Only)

I’m always on the lookout for easy drink ideas, especially when friends show up unexpectedly or I want to throw something together for a party.

If you’re anything like me—hoping for something fun without a ton of effort—this recipe is probably going to become your go-to. The Graveyard Shakedown Cocktail uses just three basic ingredients, so you can mix it up in minutes, no stress.

No fancy bartending skills required. Seriously, anyone can make this one.

It’s got this unique flavor and a spooky name that always seems to get people talking. I wish I’d stumbled on it sooner, honestly.

The Graveyard Shakedown Cocktail Recipe (3-Ingredient Only)

What I like most about the Graveyard Shakedown? It’s just three ingredients.

Gin, lime juice, and simple syrup—somehow it feels a little fancy, but it’s really not. Anyone can pull this off.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker: I always reach for this to get everything mixed up and cold.
• Strainer: Keeps out the ice bits, which I appreciate.
• Jigger or shot glass: Measuring is key for balance.
• Martini glass: Looks sharp, but any glass will do in a pinch.
• Citrus juicer: I swear by fresh lime juice, so I squeeze my own.

Each of these makes things smoother and faster. If I can’t find my shaker, I’ll just use a jar with a tight lid.

Ingredients

• 2 oz gin: I usually pick a decent gin since it’s front and center here.
• 1 oz fresh lime juice: Always freshly squeezed if I can manage it.
• 1 oz simple syrup or honey syrup: Sometimes I go with honey syrup for a bit of a twist.

That’s really it. No need for extra mixers or lemon juice—just keep it simple.

Instructions

• Measure 2 oz gin and pour into the shaker.
• Add 1 oz fresh lime juice.
• Pour in 1 oz simple syrup or honey syrup.
• Fill with ice, seal it up, and shake hard for about 15 seconds.
• Grab a strainer and set it over your martini glass.
• Pour the cocktail in, leaving the ice behind.

Shaking with lots of ice is important—it chills and blends everything nicely.

Sometimes I’ll throw a lime wheel on top, but honestly, it’s not necessary.

Notes

This drink is super easy to tweak. If I’m in the mood for something sweeter, I’ll add a little more syrup.

For more tartness, I just up the lime juice.

Honey syrup gives it a warmer, richer flavor compared to regular simple syrup. I just mix equal parts honey and warm water until it’s smooth.

Fresh juice really does make a difference. I always serve it cold, right after shaking, and usually in a martini glass.

I don’t bother making it ahead; it just tastes best fresh.

Tasting Notes

First sip of the Graveyard Shakedown, and I’m always surprised by how bold and simple it is.

With just three ingredients, every flavor gets its moment.

The whiskey brings that classic, deep richness.

Cola adds a gentle sweetness and some fizz, which I actually love.

The lemon juice brightens everything up and keeps it from getting too heavy.

As the ice melts, the flavors mellow out a bit—sometimes I like that, sometimes I don’t.

A lemon slice on the rim? Not a must, but it does add a little extra aroma.

Key things I taste:

• Sweet and sour in good balance
• Smooth finish, thanks to the cola and whiskey
• A fresh, zippy kick from the lemon

The Graveyard Shakedown feels lighter than a lot of classic cocktails, but it’s got enough kick to keep it interesting.

I always serve mine cold, especially when it’s warm out.

Substitute

Let’s be real—sometimes I don’t have the exact spirit a recipe calls for. The good news? The Graveyard Shakedown doesn’t really mind.

Here are some substitutes you can use:

• No vodka? I’ll just grab white rum instead. It’s a bit lighter, but honestly, it works.
• Out of bourbon? Whiskey steps in just fine. Sure, it might be a tad stronger or have a smokier kick, but that’s not always a bad thing.
• Rum missing from the shelf? Vodka’s a reliable stand-in for a clean finish.

Easy Substitute Chart

Whenever I swap spirits, I just use the same amount the recipe suggests. That usually keeps things balanced enough.

Sometimes I want to shake up the flavor a bit. I’ll toss in a twist of lemon or lime if I’m feeling zesty.

Or, if I’m craving something sweeter, a splash of cola with bourbon or whiskey does the trick.

All these swaps just make it easier to use what’s already in my kitchen. I try to keep it about the flavors I like, not about following every rule.