The Raspberry Lemonade Spritz is the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and bubbly, making it an ideal drink for warm weather, brunches, or any occasion where a light and refreshing cocktail is needed. This delightful spritz combines the bright, zesty flavors of lemonade with the natural sweetness of ripe raspberries, topped off with sparkling water or Prosecco for an effervescent finish.
Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, looking for an easy-to-make yet visually stunning cocktail, or simply craving something refreshing, the Raspberry Lemonade Spritz is a fantastic choice. It’s a drink that appeals to a wide range of palates, from those who love fruity cocktails to those who prefer a more sophisticated, lightly fizzy drink.
One of the best aspects of this spritz is its versatility. It can be made as a cocktail with vodka, gin, or Prosecco, or kept non-alcoholic for a family-friendly mocktail. The combination of raspberries and lemonade creates a naturally vibrant pink hue that makes the drink as beautiful as it is delicious. Plus, it’s easy to customize—adjust the sweetness, tartness, or level of fizz to suit your personal taste.
If you love citrusy, berry-infused drinks with a light and bubbly texture, the Raspberry Lemonade Spritz will quickly become one of your go-to cocktails. It’s effortless to prepare yet delivers a sophisticated, crisp, and refreshing flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Cocktail Version:
- 2 oz vodka or gin – A smooth base spirit that blends well with the fruity and citrusy flavors.
- 2 oz fresh raspberry lemonade – Provides a tangy and slightly sweet foundation for the drink.
- 1 oz raspberry liqueur (such as Chambord, optional) – Enhances the raspberry flavor for a deeper, more complex taste.
- 3 oz sparkling water or Prosecco – Adds a bubbly and refreshing finish.
- ½ oz simple syrup or honey (optional) – Adjusts sweetness if needed.
- Ice cubes – Keeps the drink chilled and crisp.
- Fresh raspberries (for garnish) – Enhances visual appeal and adds a fresh burst of flavor.
- Lemon slices (for garnish) – Provides a citrusy aroma and a bright, decorative touch.
- Mint sprigs (optional, for garnish) – Complements the freshness of the drink.
For the Mocktail Version (Non-Alcoholic):
- 2 oz fresh raspberry lemonade – The base of the drink, providing a tangy and fruity kick.
- 3 oz sparkling water or club soda – Adds a bubbly, refreshing texture.
- ½ oz honey or agave syrup (optional) – Balances tartness with a touch of sweetness.
- Ice cubes – Essential for a well-chilled spritz.
- Fresh raspberries and lemon slices (for garnish) – Make the drink visually appealing and add fresh flavors.
Preparation
Step 1: Chill Your Glass
Before assembling the cocktail, place your glass in the freezer for a few minutes. A chilled glass keeps the drink cool and enhances the experience.
Step 2: Muddle Raspberries (Optional for a More Intense Flavor)
For a more pronounced raspberry taste, muddle a few fresh raspberries at the bottom of the glass before adding the other ingredients. This releases their natural juices and intensifies the fruity essence.
Step 3: Add the Base Ingredients
Fill the glass with ice cubes, then pour in the vodka (or gin), raspberry lemonade, and raspberry liqueur if using. Stir gently to combine.
Step 4: Top with Bubbles
Slowly pour in the sparkling water or Prosecco, allowing it to mix naturally with the other ingredients. Avoid stirring too much, as this can reduce the carbonation.
Step 5: Adjust Sweetness
Taste the spritz and add simple syrup or honey if you prefer a sweeter drink. Stir lightly to blend.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh raspberries, lemon slices, and a sprig of mint for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Variations
1. Raspberry Lemonade Spritz with Champagne
For an extra luxurious touch, substitute Prosecco with Champagne. This creates a slightly drier, more refined version of the spritz.
2. Frozen Raspberry Lemonade Spritz
Blend all ingredients with ice to create a slushy, frozen version—perfect for hot summer days.
3. Spiked Raspberry Lemonade Spritz
For a stronger cocktail, add ½ oz of limoncello or triple sec to enhance the citrusy brightness.
4. Herbal Infusion Spritz
Muddle fresh basil or rosemary with the raspberries for a unique herbal twist that pairs beautifully with the lemonade.
5. Low-Calorie Raspberry Lemonade Spritz
Use diet lemonade and skip the simple syrup for a lighter version with fewer calories.
COOKING Note
- Use fresh lemon juice and raspberries for the best flavor. Store-bought lemonade can work, but fresh-squeezed will always taste better.
- If using Prosecco or Champagne, add it last and avoid over-stirring to maintain the bubbles.
- For a stronger citrus aroma, rub a lemon peel around the rim of the glass before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside light appetizers like bruschetta, fresh fruit platters, or cheese boards.
- This drink is perfect for brunch, garden parties, summer gatherings, or casual evenings on the patio.
- Pair with grilled seafood, chicken, or summer salads for a balanced meal.
Tips
- Always use chilled ingredients to keep the drink refreshing.
- Adjust the sweetness based on personal preference—some people prefer a more tart spritz.
- If making a large batch, mix everything except the sparkling ingredient in advance. Add the bubbles just before serving.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 0g
- Sodium: 10mg
FAQs
1. Can I make a Raspberry Lemonade Spritz ahead of time?
You can prepare the raspberry lemonade mixture ahead, but add the sparkling ingredient right before serving to maintain the fizz.
2. What’s the best sparkling ingredient for this drink?
Prosecco is great for a light alcoholic version, while sparkling water or club soda works best for a non-alcoholic spritz.
3. Can I make this spritz without alcohol?
Absolutely! Just omit the vodka/gin and raspberry liqueur. The mocktail version is just as refreshing.
4. How can I make my spritz less sweet?
Use unsweetened lemonade or add more sparkling water to balance the sweetness.
5. What’s the best way to garnish this drink?
Fresh raspberries, lemon slices, and a sprig of mint make the drink visually stunning and enhance the flavor.
Conclusion
The Raspberry Lemonade Spritz is the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and fizzy, making it a delightful drink for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a cocktail or a non-alcoholic refresher, this drink is simple to make yet delivers an elevated drinking experience. The vibrant pink hue, balanced flavors, and refreshing bubbles make it a go-to for summer sipping, brunch gatherings, and special celebrations.
With its versatility and ease of preparation, the Raspberry Lemonade Spritz is a must-try for anyone who enjoys bright, citrusy, and berry-forward drinks. Once you try it, it’ll become a staple in your cocktail lineup. Cheers to a drink that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!