This Easy Raspberry Vodka Sour is a refreshing drink that’s bursting with fruity flavor! It combines sweet raspberries with smooth vodka and a tangy splash of lemon juice.
Mixing is super simple, just shake and pour! I love serving it over ice with a slice of lemon—it really adds a cheerful touch to my gatherings. Cheers to easy sips! 🍹
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: Any neutral vodka will work well here. If you want to switch it up, try using citrus-flavored vodka for an extra zing.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can work too. Just note it may taste slightly different.
Simple Syrup: Easy to make at home by dissolving equal parts sugar and water. You can swap it with honey or agave syrup for a different sweetness.
Raspberries: Fresh raspberries are delightful, but frozen ones are just as tasty and can be more convenient. They will work well in the cocktail without losing flavor.
Egg White: This ingredient is optional, but it adds a nice frothy texture. If you’re concerned about using raw egg, you can skip it or use aquafaba (chickpea water) as a vegan substitute.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Foam in Cocktails?
The key to a lovely foam in your cocktail, especially when using egg white, is the dry shake. Here’s how to do it:
- First, muddle your raspberries in the shaker before adding other ingredients.
- Next, add the vodka, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white, but do not add ice yet.
- Shake it vigorously for about 20 seconds; this helps the egg whites froth up nicely.
- Then, add ice and shake again until the mixture is chilled.
This technique creates a rich, creamy foam that makes your cocktail visually appealing and enhances the texture in your drink. Enjoy your shake!
How to Make an 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 oz fresh or frozen raspberries (plus extra for garnish if desired)
- 1 egg white (optional, for foam)
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slice or raspberry for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cocktail takes about 10 minutes to make. It’s quick to muddle the raspberries and mix the ingredients, and you get to enjoy a fancy drink in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Muddle the Raspberries:
Start by taking a cocktail shaker and placing the raspberries inside. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently crush the raspberries. This will help release their juicy goodness into the drink!
2. Combine Other Ingredients:
Next, pour in the vodka, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and the egg white if you’re using it. This mix will create a delicious base for your cocktail.
3. Dry Shake for Foam:
Before adding ice, seal the shaker and give it a vigorous shake for about 20 seconds. This “dry shake” helps emulsify the egg white and makes a frothy texture for your drink.
4. Shake with Ice:
Add ice cubes to the shaker and secure the lid again. Shake it well for another 15-20 seconds until the mixture is nicely chilled.
5. Strain and Serve:
Now, it’s time for the fun part! Use a strainer to pour the cocktail into a coupe or cocktail glass. You should see a lovely froth on top if you used the egg white.
6. Garnish Your Drink:
Finish off your cocktail by garnishing it with a slice of lemon or an extra raspberry for that perfect presentation. It adds a nice touch!
7. Enjoy!
Take a moment to appreciate your beautiful cocktail before taking a sip. Enjoy your refreshing raspberry vodka sour with friends or just treat yourself!
FAQ for Easy Raspberry Vodka Sour Cocktail
Can I Substitute the Vodka with Another Spirit?
Absolutely! While vodka is traditional, you could also use gin or even rum for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that this will alter the taste of the cocktail.
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Raspberries?
No problem! You can use frozen raspberries, which will work just as well. Just make sure to thaw them first for easier muddling, or you can add them directly to the shaker if you prefer a slushier drink.
Can I Make This Cocktail Without Egg White?
Yes, you can skip the egg white if you’re not comfortable using it. If you want a foam-like texture, you can use aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) as a vegan alternative, or simply enjoy the cocktail without it—it’ll still taste great!
How Should I Store Leftover Cocktail Ingredients?
If you have leftover simple syrup, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a month. Fresh raspberries should be used within a few days, while lemon juice can also be refrigerated for about a week. Just mix again when you’re ready for another cocktail!
