If you’re after a cocktail that’s light, fruity, and just the right amount of sweet, the Apricot Bliss is a must-try. It’s one of those drinks that instantly feels like sunshine in a glass—whether you’re sipping it on a warm patio or winding down after a long day. I’ve made this drink countless times, and I always come back to it for its easy charm and that perfect balance of apricot, citrus, and spirit.
Apricot Bliss
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1 cocktail
Glass: Chilled martini or coupe glass
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) apricot nectar (unsweetened if possible)
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) vodka
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) triple sec (or orange liqueur)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
– Ice for shaking
– Fresh apricot slice or mint sprig for garnish (optional)
Method
- Chill your glass. Pop your martini or coupe glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water while you prep the drink.
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice. Add the apricot nectar, vodka, triple sec, and lemon juice.
- Taste test time: If you like things a bit sweeter, add the simple syrup. I usually start with half an ounce and adjust from there.
- Shake well—about 15 seconds. You want the shaker to feel icy cold in your hands. This chills and blends everything nicely.
- Strain into your chilled glass. Use a fine mesh strainer if you like a smoother finish.
- Garnish with a fresh apricot slice or a sprig of mint for a little extra flair.
Tips & Tricks
– Don’t skip the fresh lemon juice. Bottled won’t give the same bright zing.
– Too sweet? Leave out the simple syrup or use just a splash. Apricot nectar can vary in sweetness.
– No apricot nectar? Try peach nectar or even mango—just adjust sweetness accordingly.
– No triple sec? Cointreau or Grand Marnier work great. Or swap for apricot liqueur to double down on the fruit flavor.
– Shaking matters. It’s not just for mixing—shaking chills and dilutes slightly, which smooths the drink out.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the apricot nectar, lemon juice, and simple syrup ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, just add the spirits and shake with ice. Great for prepping a batch for guests!
Storage
This cocktail is best enjoyed freshly shaken. If you’ve got leftover nectar or lemon juice, store them separately in the fridge in airtight containers. Use within 2–3 days for the best flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio. It’s light enough to enjoy before dinner, but flavorful enough to stand on its own. Pair it with:
– Spicy Thai or Korean dishes—the sweet and tangy balance cools the heat.
– Grilled shrimp or scallops—those smoky, salty flavors are a great match.
– Light desserts like lemon tarts, fruit sorbet, or almond cookies.
Variations to Try
Apricot Gin Fizz
– Use gin instead of vodka.
– Add 1–2 oz (30–60 ml) of soda water after shaking for a bubbly twist.
– Garnish with cucumber or mint for a herbal note.
Spicy Apricot Margarita
– Swap vodka for tequila.
– Muddle a slice of fresh jalapeño in the shaker before adding other ingredients.
– Rim the glass with chili salt for extra kick.
Apricot Bliss Mocktail
– Leave out the alcohol.
– Mix apricot nectar and lemon juice, then top with sparkling water.
– Adjust sweetness with a bit of simple syrup or honey.
Common Questions
Can I make this in a pitcher for a group?
Absolutely! Just scale up the ingredients—multiply everything by the number of servings you need. Mix the nectar, lemon juice, and simple syrup in advance, then stir in vodka and triple sec right before serving. Add ice and shake in batches or serve over ice.
What if my apricot nectar is too thick?
Some brands are thicker than others. If it’s syrupy, thin it out with a splash of water or lemon juice before mixing.
Can I use canned apricot juice?
Yes, just check the label for added sugars. You may want to skip or reduce the simple syrup if the juice is already sweet.
How do I make it look fancy?
A mint sprig or a thin slice of apricot on the rim adds a simple but elegant touch. You can also freeze edible flowers or mint in ice cubes for a gorgeous presentation in a pitcher version.
Final Thoughts
The Apricot Bliss is the kind of cocktail that feels special without being fussy. It’s easy to make, easy to tweak, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting brunch, planning a backyard get-together, or just treating yourself after a long day, this drink brings a little sunshine to the moment. Try it once—and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new favorite.
