Sparkling Strawberry Lemonade Cocktail

The Sparkling Strawberry Lemonade Cocktail is a bright, bubbly drink that perfectly balances sweet strawberries, tart lemon, and the effervescence of sparkling water or soda. It’s ideal for warm weather entertaining or simply a refreshing treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light, fruity, and effervescent
• Ideal for summer parties and gatherings
• Easy to make with just a few ingredients
• Can be made alcoholic or non-alcoholic
• Visually stunning with fresh garnishes
• Perfect balance of sweet and tart
• Easily scalable for large batches
• Customizable to taste

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh strawberries
• Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• Simple syrup or honey
• Sparkling water or club soda
• Vodka or gin (optional, for alcoholic version)
• Ice cubes
• Lemon slices and strawberries for garnish

Directions

1. Muddle fresh strawberries in a shaker or pitcher.
2. Add lemon juice and simple syrup (or honey).
3. If using alcohol, pour in your choice of vodka or gin.
4. Shake or stir well.
5. Strain into glasses filled with ice.
6. Top with sparkling water or soda.
7. Garnish with lemon slices and whole strawberries.
8. Serve immediately while bubbly.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Make it non-alcoholic by skipping the liquor
• Add fresh mint for an herbal twist
• Use lime juice instead of lemon for a citrus variation
• Replace strawberries with raspberries or blackberries
• Add a splash of elderflower liqueur for floral notes

Storage/Reheating

• Best served fresh due to carbonation
• Strawberry-lemon base (without sparkling water) can be refrigerated for up to 2 days
• Do not freeze as carbonation will be lost
• Shake before using pre-made base

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, just thaw them slightly before muddling.

Is this drink sweet or tart?

It strikes a good balance, but sweetness can be adjusted.

What type of alcohol works best?

Vodka or gin work best, but rum is a nice alternative.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh is best, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

Can I prepare this for a party?

Yes, prepare a larger base batch and add sparkling water just before serving.

What if I don’t have a muddler?

Use the back of a spoon or a fork to mash the strawberries.

Can I add sugar directly instead of simple syrup?

Yes, but dissolve it in lemon juice first to ensure it’s fully incorporated.

What’s the best glass to serve it in?

Use a highball or stemless wine glass for presentation.

Can kids drink the non-alcoholic version?

Absolutely, it’s a fun and fruity drink without the alcohol.

How do I make it less fizzy?

Top with still water instead of sparkling for a gentler finish.

Conclusion

The Sparkling Strawberry Lemonade Cocktail is the perfect drink to brighten up any occasion. With its refreshing flavor, eye-catching appearance, and flexibility to be served with or without alcohol, it’s a crowd-pleasing beverage that’s as enjoyable to sip as it is to serve.

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