The Astronaut cocktail is a bright, citrusy drink with a touch of sweetness, making it a fun and refreshing choice for any occasion. With vodka, orange liqueur, lemon juice, and apricot brandy, it’s a smooth yet vibrant mix that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve. I’ve made this drink countless times, and one thing I’ve learned is that freshly squeezed lemon juice makes all the difference—it gives the cocktail that crisp, bright flavor that bottled juice just can’t match.
Astronaut
Ingredients
Serves: 1 cocktail
Prep Time: 5 minutes
You’ll need:
- 1.5 oz (45ml) vodka
- 0.5 oz (15ml) orange liqueur (like Cointreau or triple sec)
- 1 oz (30ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 0.5 oz (15ml) apricot brandy
- Ice
For garnish:
- Lemon twist or a pinch of edible glitter (optional)
Glass: A coupe glass works beautifully, showing off the drink’s color and aroma. A martini glass is another great choice for a sleek, elegant look.
How to Make It
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the vodka, orange liqueur, lemon juice, and apricot brandy.
- Shake well for about 15 seconds until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
- Garnish with a twist of lemon or a sprinkle of edible glitter for a space-inspired touch.
That’s it! A simple, smooth, and slightly sweet citrus cocktail that’s perfect for warm evenings or special celebrations.
Tips for the Best Astronaut Cocktail
- Use fresh lemon juice. It makes a world of difference in flavor.
- Chill your glass beforehand to keep the drink cold longer. Just pop it in the freezer for a few minutes before making your cocktail.
- Shake well. This ensures the flavors blend perfectly and the drink stays ice-cold.
- Experiment with garnishes. If edible glitter isn’t your thing, a simple lemon twist adds a classy touch.
Variations to Try
Want to change things up? Here are a few fun twists on the Astronaut:
Galactic Margarita
- Swap vodka for tequila.
- Add a salt rim for a Margarita-style spin.
Space Mule
- Top the drink with ginger beer for some fizz.
- Serve in a copper mug for a Mule-inspired variation.
Orbital Old Fashioned
- Use bourbon instead of vodka.
- Add a dash of bitters for a richer, deeper flavor.
Non-Alcoholic Option: Mix fresh lemon juice with apricot nectar and top with sparkling water for a refreshing, citrusy mocktail.
What to Serve with It
The Astronaut’s bright, tangy flavors pair well with a variety of foods. Here are some great options:
- Spicy Tapas: The citrusy sweetness balances out spicy dishes like jalapeño poppers or spicy shrimp skewers.
- Grilled Seafood: A great match for smoky, grilled fish or shrimp.
- Fresh Summer Salads: A crisp salad with citrus dressing complements the cocktail’s zesty notes.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Make ahead: You can mix everything except the ice and store it in the fridge for a few hours. When ready to serve, shake with ice and strain into your glass.
- Leftovers: If you somehow don’t finish your drink (unlikely!), it’s best to drink it fresh. The flavors start to change if it sits too long.
Common Questions
Can I use lime juice instead of lemon?
Absolutely! Lime juice will give the drink a slightly sharper, more tart taste.
What’s the best way to get edible glitter to stick to the rim?
Dip the rim in lemon juice first, then dip it in the glitter—it’ll stick beautifully.
Can I use a different liqueur instead of orange?
Yes! Try St-Germain (elderflower liqueur) for a floral twist or Grand Marnier for a richer, deeper citrus flavor.
What food doesn’t pair well with the Astronaut?
Heavy, creamy dishes might overpower the cocktail’s light, citrusy flavors. Think of it like wearing a winter coat on a summer day—it just doesn’t fit.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights, and I love how easy it is to tweak depending on my mood. Whether you stick to the classic or try one of the variations, I hope you enjoy your Astronaut cocktail as much as I do! Cheers! 🍹
