The Apricot Lady is one of those cocktails that feels like summer in a glass—fruity, bright, and just the right balance of sweet and tangy. It’s smooth with a citrusy kick and a soft frothy top when you add egg white. I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I learned while perfecting it: a good, vigorous shake really brings everything together and gives it that silky texture that makes it so satisfying.
Apricot Lady
Ingredients
Serves: 1
Prep time: 5 minutes
Glass: Coupe or Martini glass
- 1 oz (30 ml) apricot brandy – sweet and fruity, this is the star of the show
- 1 oz (30 ml) white rum – adds a gentle warmth and balances the sweetness
- 1/2 oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice – brightens up the drink with a zesty pop
- 1/2 oz (15 ml) orange liqueur – gives it a citrusy depth
- 1 egg white (optional) – for that creamy, foamy top
- Ice – for shaking
Method
- Chill your glass: Pop your coupe or martini glass into the freezer or fill it with ice water while you mix.
- Build the cocktail: In a cocktail shaker, add the apricot brandy, white rum, lemon juice, orange liqueur, and egg white if you’re using it.
- Dry shake first: If you’re using egg white, shake everything without ice for about 10 seconds. This helps create that lovely foam on top.
- Shake with ice: Add ice and shake again—hard—for about 15 seconds until the shaker feels cold to the touch.
- Strain and serve: Discard the ice water from your glass if you used it, and strain the cocktail into the chilled glass.
Tips & Tricks
- Use fresh lemon juice—it makes a huge difference in flavor.
- Shake hard if you’re using egg white. You want that frothy top to be nice and thick.
- Chill the glass so the cocktail stays cool without diluting too quickly.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can mix the apricot brandy, rum, and orange liqueur ahead of time and store in the fridge for a few hours. Just add the lemon juice and egg white (if using) right before serving to keep things fresh.
Substitutions
- Apricot brandy: Try peach schnapps or even apricot nectar (for a non-alcoholic version).
- White rum: Light tequila or vodka can work in a pinch.
- Orange liqueur: Triple sec or Cointreau are both great options.
- Egg white: You can skip it or use aquafaba (chickpea water) for a vegan froth.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail shines on its own, but it’s even better when paired with the right bites. I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner pairings with this drink—soft cheeses like Brie on a cracker. It’s a simple combo, but the creamy cheese and fruity cocktail make a perfect match.
Here are a few food pairings to try:
- Grilled chicken: The sweet-tart cocktail cuts through the smoky flavor beautifully.
- Spicy Asian dishes: Think spicy noodles or Thai curry—the drink’s sweetness balances the heat.
- Soft cheeses: Brie, Camembert, or even goat cheese pair wonderfully with the apricot and citrus notes.
Variations
Summer Breeze Lady
- What’s different: Muddle a few fresh berries (raspberries or blackberries work great) before shaking.
- Flavor twist: Adds a berry burst and deeper color.
Tropical Sunset Lady
- What’s different: Add 1 oz (30 ml) pineapple juice and a splash of grenadine.
- Flavor twist: Tropical vibes with a slightly sweeter finish.
Apricot Sour
- What’s different: Skip the rum and use 2 oz (60 ml) apricot brandy.
- Flavor twist: Simpler, fruit-forward, and extra tangy.
Non-Alcoholic Version
- Mix apricot nectar with a squeeze of lemon and a teaspoon of honey.
- Shake with ice and top with sparkling water for a fizzy lift.
Common Questions
Can I skip the egg white?
Definitely. It just adds texture. The flavor will still be delicious without it.
What kind of apricot brandy should I use?
Look for one made with real apricot extract or juice. It gives a richer, more authentic fruit flavor.
How do I make it less sweet?
Dial back the orange liqueur or add a dash of bitters. You can also squeeze in a bit more lemon juice.
What’s the best garnish?
Try a thin slice of fresh apricot or a twist of orange peel—it adds a nice aroma and color.
Can I make a big batch?
Yes! Multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you want and stir everything (except egg white) in a pitcher. Shake individual portions with ice before serving.
Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for white rum?
Try using a rum-flavored syrup or a splash of almond extract—it adds a similar warmth without the booze.
—
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights. It’s light, fruity, and feels a little fancy without being fussy. Whether you’re relaxing on the patio or hosting friends, the Apricot Lady is a crowd-pleaser that always hits the right note.
