Best Dancing Bear Drink Recipe

I recently discovered the intriguingly named Dancing Bear cocktail while enjoying drinks at Buffalo Wild Wings with some friends. Seeing its vibrant orange and red colors pop on the menu, I was immediately drawn in.

With its vibrant colors and mix of fruity yet smooth flavors, I knew this would be a hit for my next backyard get-together.

Upon further research, I learned the Dancing Bear originated in California in the 1970s as a playful twist on classic rum punches.

Its complex blend of 10 different spirits is meant to mimic the lively revelry of dancing bears often seen in carnival shows of that era.

While the name may raise some eyebrows now, I was drawn to the creative combination of liqueurs that promised a balanced, refreshing taste experience.

The Dancing Bear cocktail is no lightweight. It’s got Coconut Rum, White Tequila, and Vodka in the mix, and when they all come together, it’s a strong combo. So, if you’re into bold and strong drinks, the Dancing Bear is your choice.

Simple Dancing Bear Cocktail Recipe

If you’re hosting your own gatherings this summer and want an impressive yet low-maintenance drink to serve a crowd, look no further than the Dancing Bear.

Its fun history and feel-good flavors have won over guests young and old alike. Just be prepared to share the recipe, as this dancing bear is sure to steal the show!

Ingredients in Dancing bear cocktail

The Dancing Bear cocktail brings together a vibrant palette of flavors from 10 different spirits and 3 juices for a festive summer sipper. As someone who enjoys crafting fun drinks, I was thrilled to try making this unique cocktail.

Below are the key ingredients that I used in dancing bear cocktail recipe, along with suggestions for alternatives in case any prove hard to find.

Ten liquors

This drink combines an array of sweet and savory liqueurs to create layers of complexity. Here are 10 liquors that are used in dancing bear drink.

1. Gin

Gin brings herbal notes to the party. Being a gin lover myself, I’m particularly fond of how it adds layering to the complex flavor profile.

Product Suggestion: For this cocktail, I opt for a London Dry style gin like Bombay Sapphire for a clean botanical bite. Substituting vodka would still allow the balance of flavors to shine through. For a budget-friendly option, try Gordon’s Dry Gin.

2. Raspberry Liqueur

Raspberry liqueur adds just a touch of fruity sweetness along with a rosy blush to the drink’s overall hue.

Product Suggestion: As someone who loves experimenting, I always keep Chambord on hand for vibrant color and taste it contributes in mixed drinks. Strawberry liqueur could serve as an acceptable substitute in a pinch.

Bols Raspberry Liqueur and De Kuyper Raspberry Liqueur are good alternatives.

Substitute: If you’re missing raspberry liqueur, muddle fresh raspberries into the cocktail or use another fruit liqueur like Chambord Black Raspberry or Crème de Fraise (strawberry).

3. Coconut Rum

This is where the piña colada inspiration really comes through! Coconut rum provides tropical essence that transports me to sunny beaches.

Product Suggestion: For the best flavor, I choose Malibu to meld creaminess into the blend. While regular rum may work, coconut rum truly elevates the taste.

Bacardi Coconut Rum and Cruzan Coconut Rum offer different taste profiles.

Substitute: Light rum mixed with a touch of coconut extract can mimic the flavor, but it won’t be as intense. White rum alone can suffice if you prioritize simplicity.

4. Light Rum

Light rum is a versatile base spirit made from molasses, known for its subtle sweetness and delicate flavor. It provides a smooth foundation in the cocktail.

Product Suggestion: When stocking my home bar, I tend to grab Bacardi for its balance of sugar and spice. Dark rum could provide more robust flavor, so light rum ensures approachability.

Mount Gay Eclipse and Cruzan Silver Rum are good budget-friendly options.

5. Peach Schnapps

Peach schnapps contributes bright peach flavors that play nicely with other fruits in the drink. As someone with a sweet tooth, I like to use Schnapps for approachable sweetness that doesn’t overpower. However, it’s not crucial and could easily be left out of the mix.

Product Suggestion: De Kuyper Peach Schnapps is a common choice. Hiram Walker Peach Schnapps and Bols Peach Liqueur are other options.

Substitute: Try peach puree or syrup mixed with a touch of vodka to mimic the sweetness. Alternatively, experiment with other fruit schnapps like apricot or cherry.

Recommended: Gummy Bear Shot Recipe

6. Southern Comfort

Southern Comfort lends subtle hints of whiskey and peach flavors to this party in a glass. With its approachable taste, I find Southern Comfort acts as a nice bridge between rum and tequila elements. It adds complexity without being too bold. If you prefer a smoother option, try Southern Comfort Black.

Regular whiskey could swap in for a similar spice, though the peach notes would be missed.

7. White Tequila

White tequila is unaged tequila made from 100% agave, known for its clean and slightly peppery flavor. It adds a subtle agave note to the mix.

As someone who appreciates both sipping tequila and creative cocktails, I think white tequila brings a welcome dry quality to this tropical medley.

Product Suggestion: I find a crystal clear blanco tequila like Patron allows the natural essences to shine through brightly. Gold or reposado options might overpower more delicate ingredients.

8. Triple Sec

Triple sec, also known as curaçao, provides light sweetness and citrus notes. In this drink, I find Cointreau adds balanced complexity without being too sweet on its own. For a budget-friendly option, try Bols Triple Sec.

While other orange liqueurs could fill in, Cointreau offers the best marriage of flavors.

9. Vodka

Vodka acts as a neutral spirit base that helps meld all the other ingredients harmoniously. Being partial to clean vodkas myself, I choose Smirnoff or Tito’s for their crisp yet lightweight presence in the final drink. Omitting vodka is an option, but it may throw off the recipe’s balance a bit.

Try other vodka cocktails like

• Butterfly Pea Flower Cocktail

10. Amaretto

Amaretto is a sweet, aromatic Italian liqueur flavored with almonds, cloves and other spices. As someone with a major sweet tooth, I appreciate amaretto’s gentle sweetness that takes the edge off stronger spirits in this drink.

Product Suggestion: I prefer to use Disaronno for its signature smooth texture and rich flavor. Other options include Luxardo Amaretto and Lazzaroni Amaretto.

Substitute: If you lack Amaretto, try almond extract mixed with simple syrup, but it won’t capture the full complexity. Consider swapping with another sweet liqueur like Frangelico (hazelnut) or Baileys (Irish cream).

Juices

Crisp cranberry, sunshine-y pineapple and a splash of grenadine come together harmoniously. I appreciate how fresh juices brighten flavors throughout this blended beverage.

1. Cranberry Juice

Cranberry juice becomes the star of the show, imparting a vibrant pop of color along with tartness that pairs beautifully with the sweeter ingredients.

As someone with an affinity for fruit flavors, I think Ocean Spray cranberry blends that signature taste so well. Pomegranate or grape juice could carry a similar tanginess if needed.

2. Grenadine

Grenadine syrup adds just a light touch of sweetness and natural reddish-pink hue. Being a bit of a foodie, I enjoy small details like how it tints the drink rosy shades. Simply leave it out if unavailable, as other juices carry the flavor profile nicely on their own.

Product Suggestion Rose’s Grenadine and Torani Grenadine are popular choices.

Substitutes If you don’t have Grenadine, try a mixture of equal parts cherry syrup and lime juice. You can also use a splash of red wine or maple syrup, but remember, they might alter the flavor and color slightly.

3. Pineapple Juice

Pineapple juice completes the trio of top fruits with its sunny essence of the tropics. As someone constantly craving adventure, sipping this drink transports me to island beaches.

Check out some cocktails to make with Pineapple juice

• Hennessy and Pineapple Juice Recipe
• Fireball and Pineapple Juice Recipe

While orange juice may suffice, pineapple delivers authentic flavors that truly make it feel like a piña colada party in a glass!

While substitutions can help when missing specific ingredients, remember that they might alter the cocktail’s intended flavor profile. For the best experience, try to acquire the listed ingredients.

Tips and Tricks to make perfect Dancing bear drink

As someone with a busy schedule, I find it handy to gather all liquors and juices into measuring cups before guests arrive. This way I can quickly assemble pitchers of the Dancing Bear when socializing begins.

Here are some tips to help you make a delicious Dancing Bear cocktail:

Shake it Right

Use plenty of ice in your shaker. More ice chills the drink better and prevents it from getting watered down.

Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds. Imagine yourself dancing to your favorite music! This mixes everything together and chills it nicely.

Ice Matters

Use large, clear ice cubes that melt slowly. Avoid tiny ice cubes that melt quickly and make your drink watery. Crushed ice can work in a pinch, but large cubes are best.

Pay Attention to Juice Amounts

The cranberry and pineapple juices act as the moderate foundation, so using too little or too much can compromise the balance of tartness versus tropical flavors. Sticking close to the 6-ounce amounts listed keeps everything in harmony.

Use Quality Spirits

Cheap liquors will render an off-tasting cocktail no matter the recipe. Investing in mid-range options allows complex ingredients like gin and rum to positively impact the nuanced profile. Top-notch spirits make this south-of-the-border party shine.

Adjust to Taste

My preferences might differ from others. Having simple mixers on hand lets guests customize their sips. I also allow for tweaking amounts as desired, like adding more vodka for a drier taste. Flexibility makes this cocktail an everyone-pleaser.

Measure Ingredients Accurately

As someone who bakes, I appreciate the importance of precise measurements when cooking or mixing drinks. Taking the time to use measuring cups and spoons ensures each ingredient’s flavor shines through as intended. This recipe brings together many components, so accuracy is key.

Mind the Grenadine

The Grenadine adds sweetness and color. Start with a small amount, taste, and adjust if necessary. It’s easier to add more sweetness later than to correct an overly sweet drink.

Variations/Twists on Classic Dancing Bear Drink

As someone with a curious nature, I appreciate cocktails that allow for creative variations on classic recipes.

While the original Dancing Bear drink is a tropical delight, I enjoy experimenting with seasonal twists tailored to my mood or the occasions I host. By making small ingredient swaps, entirely new flavor profiles emerge to keep guests’ tastebuds entertained.

1. Tropical dancing bear

This twist transports you to paradise with a blend of tropical flavors. Swap the cranberry juice for equal parts pineapple and mango juice, adding a splash of orange juice for a citrusy kick. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and a maraschino cherry for a beachside celebration! Try another fruity cocktail named as wet pussy drink.

2. Berrylicious bear

Ditch the raspberry liqueur and embrace the berry blast with 1 ounce of blackberry or blueberry liqueur. Feeling extra adventurous? Muddle some fresh berries for an extra flavor punch. Top it off with fresh raspberries or blueberries for a visually stunning and delicious experience!

3. Spicy dancing Bear

Feeling fiery? This jalapeño jig adds a playful spice to your taste buds. Add a few drops of habanero or jalapeño-infused simple syrup, but remember, a little heat goes a long way! Garnish with a lime wedge for a refreshing balance. This drink is sure to set your taste buds on a fiesta!

If you are a spicy cocktails lover, try spicy passion fruit margarita and spicy ranch water cocktails.

4. Watermelon Wonder Panda

Twist: Replace the cranberry juice with fresh watermelon juice and add a splash of coconut water for a tropical twist. Garnish with a watermelon wedge.

Flavor: This variation is light, sweet, and perfect for summer. The watermelon juice brings a juicy sweetness, while the coconut water adds a subtle tropical touch.

5. Honey Bear

Twist: Add equal parts honey and hot water, stirred until dissolved, to create honey syrup. Add a splash of orange juice for a floral twist.

Flavor: This variation showcases the natural sweetness of honey, offering a richer and more nuanced depth compared to regular sugar. The orange juice adds a bright citrusy counterpoint, elevating the flavor profile.

6. Coffee Koala Cuddle

Indulge in a cozy cuddle with this koala-approved twist. Add 1 ounce of coffee liqueur like Kahlúa for a delightful coffee cream dream like a Sombrero Cocktail With Kahlúa.

Shake it well to blend the flavors and top with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or a coffee bean for a sophisticated touch. This variation is perfect for those who crave a sweet and creamy treat. You can also try other coffee flavored cocktails like Iron Butterfly.

Serving Dancing Bear Cocktail Like a Pro

I believe beautiful presentation adds to the enjoyment of any gathering. When it comes to serving spirited cocktails like the Dancing Bear, taking extra care with setup helps elevate the tropical vibes and good times.

Chill the Pitchers

As someone who loves hosting gatherings, I find chilled beverages are essential for creating a relaxed atmosphere.

Before guests arrive, I stash pitchers of the Dancing Bear cocktail in the fridge or even add some ice to rapidly cool them down. Taking a few minutes ensures drinks stay frosty on a warm summer night.

Garnish Attractively

Presentation counts in my book, so I like to take the extra step to garnish pitchers creatively. Skewering pineapple wedges, cherries and citrus wheels allows a burst of fresh flavors to poke above the rim.

Alternatively, a bundle of mint provides pretty green accents. The vibrant fruits entice sippers and lend festive flair.

Offer a Variety of Glasses

When stocking up, I choose an assortment of glassware like tulip tumblers or mason jars to permit personal preference.

Having tall glasses, rocks glasses and even pineapples for serving allows each guest free choice based on their mood. The options let personalities shine through!

Set Up a Do-It-Yourself Station

For groups that love mixing their own experience, I set out pitchers and garnishes with a sign inviting customization. This interactive serving style spices up conversations and leads to new discoveries as combinations are explored. Guests become co-hosts in crafting their perfect Bear!

Perfect food Pairings

I enjoy selecting bites that highlight the layered flavors in my favorite cocktails. The tropical mélange of the Dancing Bear calls for light and fresh accompaniments perfect for sipping in the warm sunset.

Grilled pineapple, mango and banana sticks are so yummy to crunch on between sips. The sweet fruit is a nice match for the cocktail. Coconut shrimp with a mango salsa is another good pairing. The tangy salsa cuts through the rich shrimp.

Finger foods like mini pizzas with ham and pineapple work great too. Rice crackers with creamy cheese and mango chutney are easy to grab. Store-bought tropical mixes like nuts and dried fruit are also nice.

Dip is a crowd-pleaser. A creamy white bean dip and vegetable sticks provide something healthy. Baked tortilla chips with melted cheese and red peppers are tasty for dipping.

Nutrition facts of dancing bear cocktail

These values are just an estimate, and the actual nutritional value could be higher or lower depending on the factors like brand and amount of each ingredient used in recipe.

Calories: Approximately 600-800 calories per serving. This high range reflects the substantial amount of alcohol (10 oz) and various sugary components contributing significantly.

Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams, primarily from sugars in juices, liqueurs, and grenadine.

Fat: 0-5 grams, depending on whether any cream-based liqueurs are used.

Protein: Less than 1 gram.

Sugar: 30-40 grams, considering juices, syrups, and liqueurs.

Alcohol: Approximately 30-40 grams, based on the combined alcohol content of all spirits.

Alternatives for Lower Calorie Consumption

• Reduce the amount of alcohol: Consider omitting some spirits or using lower-proof alternatives.
• Use sugar-free syrups and liqueurs.
• Increase the juice content: This can add sweetness without excessive calories.
• Opt for smaller serving sizes.

Dietary Considerations

Gluten

Most liquors are naturally gluten-free, excluding those made from wheat, barley, or rye (e.g., some beers, wheat vodkas). Double-check the labels of your specific brands to ensure they’re gluten-free if needed.

Be wary of hidden gluten in flavored liqueurs, syrups, and other additives. Opt for gluten-free versions whenever possible.

Vegan

Some liqueurs and certain brands of alcohol might use animal-derived ingredients like honey, egg whites, or dairy products in processing. Carefully check the labels for “vegan” certifications or research ingredient lists.

Grenadine traditionally uses gelatin, so opt for a vegan-friendly alternative made with fruit juice and agar-agar.

Clarify whether your pineapple juice and garnish fruits are ethically sourced if veganism extends to animal welfare concerns.

Keto

The high sugar content from juices, syrups, and liqueurs makes this recipe unsuitable for a strict keto diet. Each ounce of alcohol also contains carbs that can impact ketosis.

If you’re following keto, consider alternative mocktail versions that omit alcohol and sugary ingredients. You could use sugar-free syrups, keto-friendly sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit, and unsweetened coconut milk instead of juices.

Alcohol content in Dancing bear drink

The Dancing Bear recipe I shared contains a significant amount of alcohol and falls into the strong cocktail category. Here’s why:

Factors increasing strength

Multiple alcohol sources: 1 oz each of Amaretto, Gin, Raspberry Liqueur, Coconut Rum, Light Rum, Peach Schnapps, Southern Comfort, White Tequila, Triple Sec, and Vodka adds up to a total of 10 ounces of alcohol in a 2-serving recipe. This means each serving contains 5 oz of alcohol, which is already strong considering a standard drink holds 1.5 oz.

High-proof ingredients: Some ingredients like Vodka, Gin, and Tequila can have an ABV of 40% or higher, further contributing to the potency.

Minimal dilution: While cranberry and pineapple juices offer some dilution, their volume (6 oz each) isn’t enough to significantly counteract the high amount of alcohol.

Grenadine: While used in small amounts, grenadine also contains alcohol.

Considering these factors, our Dancing Bear recipe likely has an ABV (alcohol by volume) of around 20-25% per serving. This falls into the strong category, exceeding guidelines for moderate alcohol consumption (14-21% ABV for women and 15-20% ABV for men).

Recommendations

• If you prefer a weaker drink, consider reducing the amount of spirits or substituting some with lower-proof options.
• You can increase the juice proportions for more dilution without altering the main flavor profile.

How drunk can you get

On average, it takes approximately 3-5 standard drinks for most people to reach a state of intoxication. However, it’s crucial to note that the Dancing Bear cocktail is a potent mix, and consuming just one or two servings may already lead to a noticeable impact.

Factors like food consumption, body weight, and individual metabolism significantly impact how alcohol affects you. 

People with lower body weights generally feel the effects of alcohol more quickly and intensely than those with higher weights. Having food in your stomach slows down alcohol absorption, reducing the immediate impact.

How to make non alcoholic version of dancing bear cocktail

Creating a non-alcoholic version of the Dancing Bear cocktail is a delightful way to enjoy the vibrant flavors without the alcohol content. Here’s a simple recipe for a non-alcoholic Dancing Bear Mocktail:

Ingredients for 2 Servings:

• 1 oz Almond Syrup (in place of Amaretto)
• 1 oz Juniper Berry Syrup (in place of Gin)
• 1 oz Raspberry Syrup (in place of Raspberry Liqueur)
• 1 oz Coconut Cream (in place of Coconut Rum)
• 1 oz Pineapple Juice
• 1 oz Peach Nectar (in place of Peach Schnapps)
• 1 oz Peach Syrup (in place of Southern Comfort)
• 1 oz White Grape Juice (in place of White Tequila)
• 1 oz Orange Juice (in place of Triple Sec)
• 1 oz Apple Juice (in place of Vodka)
• 3 oz Cranberry Juice
• 2 dashes Grenadine
• 3 oz Pineapple Juice
• Ice cubes
• Pineapple slices and cherries for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

In a cocktail shaker, combine Almond Syrup, Juniper Berry Syrup, Raspberry Syrup, Coconut Cream, Pineapple Juice, Peach Nectar, Peach Syrup, White Grape Juice, Orange Juice, and Apple Juice.

Add ice cubes to the shaker. Pour in Cranberry Juice and Pineapple Juice.

Add two dashes of Grenadine for a touch of sweetness and color. Secure the shaker lid and shake the mixture gently for about 10-15 seconds to chill the ingredients.

Strain the mocktail into two highball glasses filled with ice. Garnish each glass with a pineapple slice and a cherry if desired.

Enjoy the non-alcoholic version of the Dancing Bear Mocktail! This refreshing and flavorful drink is perfect for those who prefer a booze-free yet lively and colorful beverage.

Storage tips for dancing bear cocktail

While the Dancing Bear recipe sounds delicious, it’s not recommended to store it pre-mixed for long periods due to quality and potential safety concerns.

However, here are some options if you’d like to prepare some elements in advance:

Prepping Ingredients Individually

• Store fruit juices in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Prepare simple syrup in advance and keep it refrigerated for up to a week.
• If using fresh herbs or spices, store them properly in the refrigerator.

Mixing on Demand

• Gather all ingredients and measure them individually.
• When ready to serve, combine and shake the measured ingredients with fresh ice for the best flavor and experience.

Never store any leftover cocktail containing perishable ingredients like juices or dairy for more than a few hours, even in the refrigerator.

Discard any questionable components and avoid consuming drinks that show signs of spoilage.

History of dancing bear cocktail

While the exact origin of the Dancing Bear cocktail remains unclear, we can say with certainty that it predates the Grateful Dead song of the same name. The song “Dancing Bears” by the Grateful Dead was released in 1972, while the earliest mentions of the cocktail recipe online appear around 2008-2010. This suggests the drink existed well before the song came along.

Furthermore, the classic Dancing Bear recipe doesn’t actually include ingredients associated with the band or their music. The most common recipe combines vodka, grenadine, pineapple juice, cranberry juice, and simple syrup, creating a sweet and tropical flavor profile. Numerous variations exist, incorporating different fruits, spices, and liqueurs, but the Grateful Dead theme isn’t a traditional element.

Therefore, while there may be individuals who associate the cocktail with the band due to the shared name, their song doesn’t hold the key to its origin.

The Dancing Bear cocktail likely emerged as a fun and adaptable creation within the wider world of mixology, gaining popularity thanks to its easy customization and versatile taste.

Some purple cocktails that you’ll love

• Purple Haze Cocktail
• Purple Rain cocktail
• Purple Moon Cocktail

Dancing Bear drink FAQS

What does a dancing bear cocktail taste like?

The Dancing Bear cocktail boasts a sweet and refreshing flavor profile. It offers a balanced and vibrant taste. Expect a mix of sweetness from the juices, a touch of tartness, and hints of alcohol flavor depending on the recipe. It reminds me of classic peach tea shot!

Can I prepare this cocktail in advance for a party?

While pre-mixing some elements can save time, storing the full Dancing Bear cocktail isn’t recommended. Here’s why:

• Ice dilution: Melted ice waters down the drink, altering its flavor and texture.
• Ingredient separation: Juices and liqueurs might separate, affecting consistency and appearance.
• Spoilage risk: Fruit juices and other perishables can spoil, posing potential health risks.

What is dancing bear drink at buffalo wild wings?

The “Dancing Bear” drink served at Buffalo Wild Wings is their signature tropical cocktail. It contains coconut rum, blue curaçao, pineapple juice, coconut cream, and light rum. The overall flavor profile is tropical and fruity.

The Dancing Bear was created specifically for the Buffalo Wild Wings menu. It’s not based on any pre-existing cocktail recipe. But it may not be available at every B-Dubs restaurant.

As a premium signature cocktail, expect to pay more for it than a basic mixed drink. Most locations price signature cocktails between $8-10.

Try some of our favorite Buffalo Wild Wings drinks Recipes at home!

• Bourbon Pineapple Punch Recipe
• Henny Hustle Drink Recipe
• Red Bull Sunrise
• Spiked football drink