This Easy Raspberry Vodka Sour is a fruity and refreshing drink that mixes sweet raspberries with smooth vodka and a hint of tartness. Perfect for a sunny day or a cozy night in!
It’s so simple to make! Just shake it all together and serve over ice. I often add a cute straw for style—because, why not sip in style? Cheers to easy cocktails! 🥂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: A good-quality vodka is key for this drink. If you want a twist, try using flavored vodka, like lemon or berry, for added depth of flavor.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is best for that bright, tangy taste. If you only have bottled juice, that’s fine, but fresh makes a big difference.
Simple Syrup: This is easy to make at home (just equal parts sugar and water). If you’re watching sugar, use a sugar substitute or adjust the amount to your preference.
Raspberry Syrup: If fresh raspberries aren’t available, using store-bought raspberry syrup works well. For a healthier option, you can use mashed or muddled raspberries instead.
Egg White: The egg white adds a nice froth and smooth texture. If you’re concerned about raw eggs, feel free to skip it or use pasteurized egg whites.
How Do I Get the Perfect Froth with Egg White?
Getting that nice frothy top can be tricky but is essential for this cocktail. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a “dry shake”: Shake the egg white with the other ingredients for about 15 seconds without ice to emulsify it.
- Once you’ve shaken it dry, add ice to the shaker and shake again for 15-20 seconds. This cools the drink while creating more froth.
- Strain the mixture gently into your glass. If you see any small bubbles, don’t worry—it means you’re on the right track!
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)
- 1/2 oz raspberry syrup or muddled fresh raspberries
- 1 egg white (optional, for frothiness)
- Fresh raspberries and a lemon slice for garnish (optional)
- Ice cubes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cocktail will take about 5-10 minutes to prepare. That includes muddling the raspberries, shaking the drink, and getting everything garnished. Perfect for a quick refreshment!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Muddle the Raspberries:
If you’re using fresh raspberries, start by gently muddling about 5 of them in a shaker with a muddler or the back of a spoon until they’re juicy. This will give your cocktail that fresh raspberry flavor!
2. Mix Your Ingredients:
Next, add the vodka, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, raspberry syrup (if you opted for that instead of fresh raspberries), and the egg white to the shaker. This mixture is where the magic happens!
3. Dry Shake for Froth:
Now it’s time to dry shake! Put the lid on tightly and shake the mixture vigorously for about 15 seconds without ice. This helps to emulsify the egg white, creating a nice froth.
4. Shake it Chill:
After your dry shake, add ice cubes to the shaker, close it again, and shake for another 15-20 seconds. This chills the cocktail while keeping that frothy texture intact.
5. Strain into Glass:
Time to serve! Use a strainer to pour the mixture into a coupe or stemmed glass. This will give you a nice, smooth pour.
6. Garnish Your Drink:
If you’re feeling fancy, garnish your cocktail with fresh raspberries and a lemon slice on the rim. It adds a lovely touch and a hint of color!
7. Enjoy!
Now that your Easy Raspberry Vodka Sour is ready, sip and savor the refreshing flavors. Cheers to easy cocktails!
FAQ for Easy Raspberry Vodka Sour Cocktail
Can I Use Frozen Raspberries for This Cocktail?
Absolutely! If you can’t find fresh raspberries, frozen ones work perfectly. Just let them thaw before muddling them to get their juices out. This will ensure you still get that delicious raspberry flavor.
Is the Egg White Necessary?
The egg white is optional, but it adds a lovely frothy texture to the drink. If you’re not comfortable using raw egg whites, you can skip it or use a pasteurized egg white alternative available at most grocery stores.
How Do I Make Simple Syrup at Home?
Making simple syrup is super easy! Just combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan, heat until the sugar dissolves, then let it cool. Store it in the fridge for up to a month!
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Cocktail?
If you prefer a sweeter or less sweet drink, you can easily adjust the amount of simple syrup. Start with the suggested 3/4 oz and taste as you go—add more if you like it sweeter or reduce it for a more tart flavor.