A refreshing, citrusy cocktail with a hint of herbal depth, the Chasers Delight is the perfect balance of bright and smooth. It’s a go-to for warm evenings, casual gatherings, or whenever you’re craving something light and crisp. I’ve made this drink countless times, and one thing I’ve learned is that using freshly squeezed lemon juice makes all the difference. Let’s get into how to make this simple yet elegant cocktail at home.
Chasers Delight
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 1 oz (30ml) fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz (15ml) simple syrup
- 1 oz (30ml) herbal liqueur
- Soda water, to top off
- Ice cubes, as needed
Glass: A highball glass works best for this drink, allowing enough room for the bubbles to mix in perfectly. A Collins glass is a great alternative.
How to Make Chasers Delight
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the lemon juice, simple syrup, and herbal liqueur.
- Shake well for about 10 seconds, until the mixture is chilled.
- Strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with soda water, then gently stir to combine.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint or a twist of citrus for extra fragrance.
Tip: If you like a slightly less sweet drink, cut back on the simple syrup or swap it for honey or agave.
Serving & Pairing
This cocktail pairs beautifully with a variety of foods:
- Light appetizers – Think crisp bruschetta or cucumber sandwiches.
- Seafood – Grilled shrimp or fish tacos bring out the citrus notes.
- Spicy dishes – The sweetness and acidity help balance heat, making it great with Thai or Mexican flavors.
I love serving this with a platter of fresh, zesty bites—it really makes the drink shine.
Variations & Customizations
Want to switch it up? Try these fun twists:
Sunrise Delight
- Add: Orange juice and a splash of grenadine.
- How: Pour grenadine at the end for a layered sunrise effect.
Winter Delight
- Swap: Use cinnamon syrup instead of simple syrup and top with apple cider instead of soda water.
Tropical Delight
- Replace: Soda water with coconut water and pineapple juice for a beachy vibe.
Non-Alcoholic Version: Skip the herbal liqueur and add a little extra soda water and lemon juice. It’s just as refreshing!
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Make-Ahead: You can mix the lemon juice, simple syrup, and herbal liqueur ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and add soda water when ready to serve.
- Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers (unlikely!), store the base mix in a sealed jar for up to 24 hours in the fridge.
Common Questions
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Absolutely! Reduce the simple syrup or try honey for a natural sweetness.
What’s the best garnish?
A sprig of mint or a citrus twist adds both aroma and elegance.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh is best! Bottled juice can be too sharp or dull in flavor.
What’s the best herbal liqueur to use?
It depends on your taste—experiment with different brands to find your favorite balance of herbal and citrus notes.
This cocktail is a staple in my recipe collection, and I hope it becomes one in yours too. Whether you’re making the classic version or experimenting with a fun twist, the Chasers Delight is always a refreshing choice. Cheers! 🍋✨
