It’s more than just alliteration; it’s a statement, a proclamation that Thursdays are when the weekend should really start. Kicking it off right is the key, and what better way than with a cocktail that not only takes the edge off, but tastes good too. Last week we stirred up a gruesome Zombie Gut Punch Cocktail; this week we’re back with one last harrowing hurrah for Halloween.

Dracula may not have been the brains behind this boozy sip, but boy would he have loved to wrap his fangs around a glass or two. With bloody red streaks of grenadine set against a white creme de cacao, triple sec and vanilla ice cream background, The Vampire Cocktail is appropriate all Halloween weekend-long. So pour yourself a glass, a pitcher if you're hosting friends, and help usher in Halloween and all its glory a little early this year. Bottoms up, folks.

Blend all ingredients except grenadine until smooth, pour into a stemmed cocktail glass. Drizzle grenadine over top.