How to Make a Refreshing Raspberry Smash Cocktail at Home
Floral sweetness and tart berry fusion create a sparkling sip that uplifts any gathering.
Raspberry Smash: A Lively, Fruity Cocktail for Any Occasion
Fresh raspberries, a splash of vodka, and a subtle touch of elderflower come together in the Raspberry Smash, a cocktail that is as visually striking as it is refreshing. Bright, fizzy, and layered with tart fruit flavor, this drink is the ultimate way to celebrate berry season or any day that could use a pop of color and cheer.
Table of Contents
- What Is a Raspberry Smash?
- Why You’ll Love This Cocktail
- Key Ingredients
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Expert Tips and Customizations
- Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Is a Raspberry Smash?
The Raspberry Smash is a modern twist on classic “smash” cocktails, which are traditionally made by muddling fresh fruit, herbs, a chosen spirit, and something fizzy to create a refreshing, easy-drinking delight. This recipe showcases:
- Fresh raspberries, muddled for vibrant color and flavor
- Vodka, for a neutral, clean base that lets the fruit shine
- A hint of elderflower liqueur (such as St. Germain)
- Lemon juice for balance
- Simple syrup for gentle sweetness
- A splash of club soda for sparkle
This cocktail is a fixture on summer brunch menus and makes a festive addition to any party or weekend get-together.
Why You’ll Love This Cocktail
- Vibrant and refreshing: Tart raspberries pair beautifully with lemon and a hint of floral elderflower.
- Quick and easy: Takes less than ten minutes with minimal prep.
- Beautiful color: The deep red hue is eye-catching in any glass.
- Versatile: Perfect for brunch, summer parties, bridal showers, or as a signature holiday cocktail.
- Adjustable: Easy to customize to suit your tastes or to use what you have on hand.
Key Ingredients
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Fresh Raspberries (about 10) | Add tartness, color, & amp; texture |
| Vodka (2 oz) | Clean, neutral base |
| Elderflower Liqueur (e.g., St. Germain, 1 oz) | Floral, aromatic note |
| Lemon Juice (¾ oz, freshly squeezed) | Brightens with acidity |
| Simple Syrup (1 oz) | Sweetens & amp; balances tart fruit |
| Club Soda | Adds fizz and dilution |
| Ice | Chills and refreshes |
Optional garnishes: extra raspberries, lemon slices, or a sprig of fresh mint. For a festive touch, use edible flowers or a sugar rim.
How to Make a Raspberry Smash: Step-by-Step
- Muddle the Raspberries:
Add 8 fresh raspberries to the bottom of a cocktail shaker. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to smash them thoroughly to release their juices.
- Add Ice and Liquids:
Fill the shaker with ice. Pour in 2 ounces of vodka, 1 ounce of elderflower liqueur, 1 ounce of simple syrup, and ¾ ounce of fresh lemon juice.
- Shake:
Seal the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds, until chilled.
- Strain and Pour:
Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with fresh ice. Use a fine mesh strainer if you prefer a smoother drink, or pour directly for a more rustic texture.
- Top with Club Soda:
Top off the drink with your desired amount of club soda. Give a quick stir to combine all the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve:
Finish with the remaining raspberries and a slice of lemon. Add a mint sprig or edible flower if desired. Serve immediately.
Quick Reference Recipe Card
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Muddle | 8 raspberries in shaker |
| Add | Ice, 2 oz vodka, 1 oz St. Germain, 1 oz simple syrup, 3/4 oz lemon juice |
| Shake | Vigorously, 15 seconds |
| Strain | Into ice-filled tall glass |
| Top | With club soda, stir gently |
| Garnish | 2 raspberries, lemon slice, mint (optional) |
Expert Tips and Customizations
- Choose ripe raspberries: The sweetest, juiciest berries yield the best flavor and color.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste as you go. If your berries are extra tart, add a bit more simple syrup.
- Try with other berries: Swap in blackberries, strawberries, or blueberries for a colorful twist.
- Make it non-alcoholic: Substitute vodka and elderflower liqueur with lemon-lime soda, and muddle extra raspberries for depth.
- Pre-batch easily: Multiply ingredients for a pitcher, muddle berries and combine liquids in advance (except club soda), then top with ice and soda just before serving.
- Play with spirits: For a different flavor, try gin in place of vodka for herbal notes, or rum for extra warmth.
What others are reading
Alternative Variations
- Raspberry-Mint Smash: Muddle a few fresh mint leaves with the raspberries for extra freshness.
- Limoncello Raspberry Smash: Add a half-ounce of limoncello to amplify the lemon flavor.
- Sparkling Wine Smash: Top with chilled sparkling wine instead of club soda for celebration-worthy bubbles.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
The Raspberry Smash is a versatile cocktail that suits numerous occasions. Its vibrant look and light, fruity profile pair well with:
- Brunch favorites: Quiches, egg bakes, croissants, and fresh fruit salads
- Summer cookouts: Grilled chicken, fish tacos, vegetable skewers, and BBQ sides
- Party nibbles: Charcuterie boards, shrimp cocktail, bruschetta, deviled eggs
- Desserts: Lemon tart, pavlova with berries, almond cakes, vanilla ice cream with berry sauce
This drink’s cheerful hue also makes it a standout choice for themed gatherings, including Valentine’s Day, bridal showers, Fourth of July picnics, and Mother’s Day brunches.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen raspberries?
Yes, frozen raspberries work beautifully — just thaw them first for easy muddling. Frozen berries may produce a slightly cloudier drink but deliver the same vibrant flavor.
What if I don’t have elderflower liqueur?
You can substitute an orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier) for a citrusy twist, or simply add a little extra simple syrup and lemon juice to keep the balance.
Is there a non-alcoholic version?
Absolutely! Replace vodka and liqueur with a non-alcoholic spirit, or simply omit them and add more club soda with a splash of lemonade for flavor and fizz.
Can I make it ahead for a party?
Yes. Muddle berries and combine with vodka, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and simple syrup up to four hours ahead. Chill until ready to serve, then pour over ice and top with club soda in each glass for freshness.
What’s the origin of a “smash” cocktail?
“Smash” cocktails are named for their method: smashing fruit and herbs to release their essence into a refreshing drink. Historically, mint was most often used, but modern versions like the Raspberry Smash put berries center stage.
Bonus: Using Raspberries in More Recipes
- Raspberry Fool: Blend whipped cream, fresh raspberries, and cookies for a fast, rustic dessert.
- Peach-Raspberry Crisp: Top fresh fruit with a crumbly oat topping and bake until bubbly.
- Almond Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies: Fill buttery almond cookies with raspberry jam for a classic treat.
- Raspberry Sorbet Spritz: Add a scoop of raspberry sorbet to sparkling rosé for a show-stopping cocktail.
With raspberries in your kitchen, the possibilities are endless — from vibrant cocktails like the Raspberry Smash, to colorful desserts and breakfast dishes that highlight the beauty of berry season all year long.
Nutritional Info (per serving, estimated)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 170 |
| Sugar | 15g |
| Alcohol | About 15% ABV |
| Vitamin C | ~15% DV |
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re toasting to the weekend, shaking up a new brunch tradition, or simply channeling sunshine in a glass, the Raspberry Smash is a standout cocktail to know and love. Its blend of fresh fruit, lively fizz, and customizable charm make it a must-try for cocktail enthusiasts and festive hosts alike.
References
- https://tastykitchen.com/recipes/drinks/raspberry-smash/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g43724066/raspberry-recipes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g32304317/cocktail-recipes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a78045/raspberry-smash/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g38622118/valentines-day-cocktails/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g43041042/brunch-cocktails/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g37927810/champagne-cocktails/
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