1-First Step: Mix the blood rim baseIn a wide microwave-safe glass bowl, stir together 1/4 cup corn syrup and 2 teaspoons red food coloring. Make sure the color is mixed in evenly so the rim turns a rich, spooky red. A wide bowl helps because it makes dipping the glass easier later.

2-Second Step: Heat the mixture carefullyMicrowave the mixture for 45 seconds to 1 minute until it bubbles. Watch it closely, because the syrup can move from warm to too thick very fast. This step is what gives The Bloody Manhattan its glossy, dramatic rim.

3-Third Step: Let it coolSet the bowl aside and let the mixture cool to room temperature. This matters because a mixture that is too hot will slide off the glass instead of clinging to the rim. While it cools, you can get your shaker, ice, and glass ready.

4-Fourth Step: Rim the cocktail glassLightly dip the rim of a cocktail glass into the cooled red mixture. You only need a thin coat for that eerie blood-drip look. If you want a cleaner finish, dip just one side of the rim so the drink looks a little more artistic and less messy.

5-Fifth Step: Stir the cocktailIn a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add 2 ounces whiskey, 2 ounces sweet vermouth, and a couple of dashes of bitters. Stir until chilled. Stirring keeps the drink smooth and clear, which works well for a Manhattan-style cocktail.

6-Final Step: Strain and garnishStrain the chilled cocktail into the prepared glass. Finish with 1 maraschino cherry for garnish. The bright cherry against the red rim gives The Bloody Manhattan a playful Halloween look that fits right in at a themed party.