5 Foolproof Pairings For Classic April Fools' Day Pranks
April Fools' Day is that one day of the year when mischief and mayhem are not just expected but encouraged. But why should pranks be limited to whoopee cushions and fake spiders? Let's elevate the game by pairing classic April Fools' Day pranks with some deliciously deceptive cocktails. After all, if you're going to cause a bit of trouble, why not do it with a drink in hand?
The Coloured Water Tap and a Clear Surprise
Who doesn't love turning the kitchen tap on only to find it spouting bright blue water? As your victim stands there, bewildered, hand them a glass of what appears to be plain old water but is actually a mix of Ciroc Vodka (60 ml), tonic water, and a dash of lemon juice. Under UV light, the tonic water glows, revealing the ‘invisible’ cocktail. It’s a magical twist that'll have everyone questioning what's real and what's not.
The Airhorn Chair and a ‘Loud’ Drink
Securing an airhorn under a chair so it goes off when someone sits down is a prank as old as time, but it never fails to amuse. Pair that startling moment with a cocktail that's equally as loud in flavour. Mix Captain Morgan Original Spiced Gold Rum (45 ml) with ginger beer and a splash of lime juice for a drink that packs a punch. It’s bold, it’s brash, and it screams April Fools' in the best way possible.
The Sugar-Salt Swap and a ‘Sweet’ Martini
Imagine the look on your friend's face when they take a sip of their coffee, expecting sweetness but getting a mouthful of salt instead. Classic! Now, keep the pranks rolling by serving up what looks like a sweet, indulgent chocolate martini but is actually a mix of Smirnoff No. 21 Vodka (50 ml) and olive brine (10 ml), garnished with a cocoa-powdered rim. The initial confusion followed by the realisation of the savoury surprise inside makes for a perfectly playful April Fools' cocktail.
The Fake Bug and the ‘Insect’
Nothing gets a scream quite like a fake bug lurking in someone's personal space. After the initial shock, soothe their nerves with a cocktail that plays along with the bug theme. Create a ‘Garden Smash’ with Smirnoff Green Apple Vodka (45 ml), muddled basil leaves, a tablespoon of simple syrup, and lemon juice. Serve it with a garnish of edible flowers and a gummy worm hidden amongst the ice—a delightful drink with a little creepy-crawly surprise.
The Mustard-Filled Doughnut
Filling a doughnut with mustard is a prank that's both cruel and hilarious. Offer redemption with a cocktail that looks sweet but offers a complex flavour profile. Combine 45 ml Johnnie Walker Black Label with a splash (or 15 ml) of Aperol, some grapefruit juice, and top it off with soda water. The drink starts off with a bittersweet note, mimicking the prank, but finishes off on a refreshingly sweet note, much like the laughter following a successful April Fools' joke.
