This Easy Raspberry Vodka Sour is a refreshing drink perfect for sunny days! With simple ingredients like vodka, fresh raspberries, and lemon juice, it bursts with fruity flavor.
Making this cocktail is a breeze! I love how the sweet-tart taste makes it feel like a celebration in a glass. Don’t forget to add ice for that extra chill factor! 🍹
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: Use your favorite vodka here! I recommend a smooth, clean option. If you want to experiment, flavored vodka like raspberry or citrus can add a fun twist.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is key for the best flavor. If you need a substitute, try lime juice for a different citrus taste, but it will change the overall flavor profile.
Simple Syrup: Making simple syrup is easy! Combine equal parts water and sugar, heat until dissolved, and cool. For a healthier option, use honey or agave syrup, adjusting the quantity to taste.
Fresh Raspberries: Fresh raspberries really shine in this drink. If they’re out of season or unavailable, you can use frozen raspberries. Just remember to thaw and drain excess liquid before using them.
Egg White: This ingredient makes the cocktail frothy and adds a nice texture. If you’re not keen on using egg white, you can skip it or replace it with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas).
How Do You Create a Frothy Texture Without a Mess?
To get that lovely frothy top, dry shaking is the way to go! It’s crucial for emulsifying the egg white properly, ensuring a nice foam when you pour the drink. Here’s how to do it:
- First, muddle the raspberries in your shaker until they’re nice and crushed.
- Then, add in your vodka, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white (if you’re using it).
- Seal the shaker tightly and shake it vigorously for about 15 seconds without ice to create that foam. Feel free to get a little wild here—really shake it up!
- After that, add ice to the shaker, seal it up again, and shake for another 15-20 seconds to chill the mix.
Finally, double straining the cocktail will help remove any seeds and give you a smoother drink. Enjoy the process and the tasty results!
Easy Raspberry Vodka Sour Cocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar to water)
- 6-8 fresh raspberries
- 1 egg white (optional, for frothiness)
- Ice
- Fresh raspberries or lemon twist for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes of preparation time. It’s quick and easy, so you’ll be enjoying your delicious Raspberry Vodka Sour in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Muddle the Raspberries:
Start by taking a cocktail shaker and adding the fresh raspberries. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to crush them well. This will release all their sweet juice, which is the base of your cocktail’s flavor!
2. Mix in the Liquids:
Once the raspberries are nicely crushed, pour in the vodka, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and the egg white if you’re using it. The egg white will add a lovely frothiness to your drink.
3. Dry Shake:
Seal the shaker tightly and dry shake the mixture (without ice) for about 15 seconds. This step is important as it helps emulsify the egg white, creating a nice foam for your drink!
4. Chill the Mixture:
Now it’s time to add some ice to the shaker. Once you’ve added the ice, shake it again vigorously for another 15 to 20 seconds. You want the mixture to be well chilled!
5. Strain the Cocktail:
Take a fine mesh strainer and double strain the cocktail into chilled coupe or sour glasses. This step ensures that any raspberry seeds get removed, leaving you with a smooth drink.
6. Garnish & Serve:
Top your cocktail with a fresh raspberry or a twist of lemon for a beautiful finish. Raise your glass and enjoy your delightful Raspberry Vodka Sour!
FAQs about the Easy Raspberry Vodka Sour Cocktail
Can I Use Frozen Raspberries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen raspberries work just as well. Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to prevent your cocktail from becoming watery.
Is the Egg White Necessary?
The egg white is optional, but it does add a lovely frothiness and texture to the drink. If you’re not comfortable using raw egg whites, feel free to skip it or replace it with aquafaba for a vegan alternative.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftover cocktail mix, it’s best to consume it immediately, as the freshness of the ingredients will diminish. However, if you’ve made a large batch, you can store the mix (without the ice) in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just shake it again before serving!
Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
Yes! You can easily adjust the amount of simple syrup to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet cocktail, start with half the syrup and add more if needed. You can also use flavored syrups for a unique twist!
