A Blueberry Bellini is like a sip of summer in a glass—sweet, sparkling, and irresistibly refreshing. This twist on the classic Bellini swaps the traditional peach for vibrant blueberries, creating a cocktail that’s as beautiful to look at as it is to drink. Whether you’re hosting brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or just unwinding after a long week, this drink is guaranteed to impress. It’s one of my favorites for warm afternoons, and I’ve made it more times than I can count—so let me share a few tips I’ve picked up along the way.
Blueberry Bellini
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make one Blueberry Bellini:
- 4 oz (120ml) prosecco, chilled
- 2 oz (60ml) blueberry puree (see tips below for how to make this)
- 1 oz (30ml) simple syrup (optional, adjust based on your sweetness preference)
- Fresh blueberries for garnish
Equipment: A champagne flute works best for this cocktail, but a coupe glass is a fun vintage alternative. You’ll also need a blender or food processor for the puree.
Prep Time & Servings
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 1 cocktail (easily scaled up for a group!)
Method
- Make the blueberry puree: Blend fresh or thawed blueberries until smooth. Strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds for a silky texture. You can make this ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Chill your glass: Pop your champagne flute in the freezer for a few minutes to keep your drink cold and bubbly longer.
- Build the cocktail: Add 2 oz of blueberry puree to the chilled glass. If you like your cocktails sweeter, stir in 1 oz of simple syrup.
- Pour the prosecco: Slowly pour 4 oz of chilled prosecco over the puree. Pour gently to preserve the bubbles and let the layers mix naturally.
- Garnish and serve: Drop a few fresh blueberries into the glass for a pop of color, and you’re ready to enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
- Fresh or frozen? Fresh blueberries are ideal, but frozen ones work just as well—just thaw them first.
- No simple syrup? You can skip it altogether or use honey, agave, or a sugar-free alternative for sweetness.
- Preserve those bubbles: Always pour the prosecco slowly down the side of the glass to keep it fizzy.
- Make ahead: Prepare the blueberry puree in advance, but mix the drink just before serving to keep it sparkling.
Serving Suggestions
Blueberry Bellinis are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of dishes.
Brunch Favorites
The fruity, bubbly flavors are a match made in heaven for classics like French toast, waffles, or a rich eggs Benedict.
Seafood
Light seafood dishes like grilled shrimp, crab cakes, or scallops are elevated by the refreshing sweetness of the cocktail.
Cheese Platters
Pair your Bellini with a creamy brie or tangy goat cheese for a combination that’s sure to impress your guests.
Variations
Looking to mix things up? Here are a few fun twists on the traditional Blueberry Bellini:
Raspberry Blueberry Bellini
- Ingredients: Replace half the blueberry puree with raspberry puree for a tart, fruity blend.
- Recipe: Follow the same steps as the original recipe.
Sparkling Blueberry Mint Bellini
- Ingredients: Add a few mint leaves to the blueberry puree.
- Recipe: Muddle the mint with the puree before adding prosecco for a fresh, herbal note.
Non-Alcoholic Blueberry Bellini
- Ingredients: Swap prosecco for sparkling water or white grape juice.
- Recipe: Mix as usual for a family-friendly version that’s just as delightful.
Common Questions
Can I use store-bought blueberry puree?
Yes, but homemade puree has a fresher flavor. If using store-bought, check for added sugars and adjust the simple syrup accordingly.
What’s the best prosecco for this recipe?
Choose a dry prosecco (labeled “Brut”) to balance the sweetness of the blueberries.
How do I avoid a too-sweet cocktail?
Skip the simple syrup or use just a splash. The natural sweetness of the blueberries is often enough!
What’s the secret to the perfect garnish?
Aside from fresh blueberries, try a sprig of mint or a twist of lemon peel for a fancy touch.
Food Pairings
For an elegant gathering, serve Blueberry Bellinis alongside a charcuterie board or light finger foods. They’re also a great choice for summer picnics or garden parties.
Final Thoughts
The Blueberry Bellini is a celebration in a glass—vibrant, refreshing, and endlessly customizable. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this cocktail is sure to be a hit. So grab some blueberries, pop a bottle of prosecco, and let the good times sparkle!
