This Easy Raspberry Vodka Sour Cocktail is a refreshing drink that combines the tartness of raspberries with smooth vodka. Perfect for summer parties or a chill night in!
Mixing this cocktail is super simple—just shake, pour, and enjoy! I love adding a few fresh raspberries as a garnish. It’s like having a tiny party in your glass! 🍹
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: A good quality vodka makes a difference in this cocktail. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can try using vodka infused with raspberry flavors for an extra boost.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the cocktail’s brightness. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice works too, but fresher tastes better. You could also try lime juice for a different twist.
Simple Syrup: You can easily make simple syrup by mixing equal parts sugar and water, then heating until dissolved. For a healthier option, consider using honey, agave syrup, or a sugar substitute if you prefer it less sweet.
Fresh Raspberries: If you can’t find fresh raspberries, frozen ones work too. Just thaw and drain excess juice. Alternatively, raspberry purée is a great option if you want to skip the muddling.
Egg White: Using egg white creates a frothy texture, but if you’re concerned about raw egg, you can use aquafaba (chickpea water) instead for a similar result.
How Do I Get the Perfect Frothy Top?
The frothy texture is what makes this cocktail special. If you’re using egg white, here’s how to do it:
- Start with a dry shake: Combine all ingredients without ice first and shake it really well for about 15 seconds. This helps create froth.
- Then, add ice and shake again for about 15 seconds to chill the mixture.
- Strain carefully into your glass, and you’ll see a nice frothy layer on top!
Even if you skip the egg white, shaking well with ice creates a great chill and mix. Enjoy your cocktail experience! 🍹
Easy Raspberry Vodka Sour Cocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh raspberries (about 6-8 raspberries)
- 1 egg white (optional, for frothy top)
- Ice
- Fresh raspberries or lemon twist (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cocktail recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and simple, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a refreshing drink at home.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Muddle the Raspberries:
Start by adding the fresh raspberries to a cocktail shaker. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to crush the raspberries until they are well mashed. This will release their juicy flavor into the drink.
2. Add the Remaining Ingredients:
Into the shaker, pour in the vodka, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and the egg white (if you’re using it for a frothy texture). This combination will bring out a wonderful mix of flavors.
3. Shake It Up:
Fill the shaker with ice and shake it vigorously for about 15 seconds. This action not only chills the drink but also froths the egg white if you included it, giving your cocktail that creamy top.
4. Strain Into a Glass:
Using a fine-mesh strainer, pour the mixture into a chilled coupe or martini glass. The strainer will catch any raspberry seeds and ice to keep your drink smooth.
5. Garnish and Serve:
For a lovely finishing touch, garnish your cocktail with a fresh raspberry or a twist of lemon peel on the edge of the glass. This adds a pop of color and brightness to your drink.
6. Enjoy Your Cocktail:
Cheers! Enjoy your refreshing raspberry vodka sour as a delightful treat for yourself or share the recipe with friends. It looks just as stunning as it tastes!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Raspberries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen raspberries work perfectly in this cocktail. Just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before muddling. They’ll still provide great flavor!
Is the Egg White Necessary for This Cocktail?
No, the egg white is optional! It adds a lovely frothy texture, but if you’re not comfortable using it, you can simply skip it. Your drink will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Cocktails?
If you have any leftover cocktail, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It’s best consumed within 24 hours, but the flavors may not be as fresh when you revisit it.
What’s a Good Non-Alcoholic Version of This Drink?
You can create a virgin Raspberry Sour by omitting the vodka and replacing it with sparkling water or lemonade for a refreshing and fruity drink. Blend in some raspberries and follow the same steps!