Light, bubbly, and bursting with citrus flavor, the Cointreau Fizz is one of those cocktails that never goes out of style. It’s crisp, refreshing, and so easy to make—perfect for warm evenings, weekend brunches, or whenever you want a drink that feels effortlessly elegant. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it always hits the spot. Here’s how to make it just right, plus a few fun ways to mix it up.
Cointreau Fizz
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) Cointreau (orange liqueur)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) freshly squeezed lime juice (about half a lime)
– Club soda, to top
– Ice cubes
– Optional garnish: lime wedge, orange slice, or fresh herbs like mint or rosemary
Equipment
– Highball glass (or a Collins glass)
– Bar spoon or long spoon for stirring
– Citrus juicer or reamer (optional but helpful)
Method
- Fill a highball glass with ice. You want it nice and full so your drink stays cold and doesn’t get watered down too quickly.
- Pour in 2 oz (60 ml) of Cointreau.
- Add 0.5 oz (15 ml) of fresh lime juice. Fresh is best—bottled lime juice just doesn’t bring the same brightness.
- Top it off with club soda, about 3–4 oz (90–120 ml), depending on how strong you like your fizz.
- Give it a gentle stir to mix everything. Don’t overdo it—you want to keep the bubbles lively.
- Garnish with a lime wedge, orange slice, or even a sprig of rosemary for something a little extra.
Tips & Tricks
– Chill your glass ahead of time for an extra-refreshing sip.
– Use good-quality club soda. It makes a difference—look for brands with strong, fine bubbles.
– If you’re making a batch for guests, mix the Cointreau and lime juice ahead of time, then top with soda just before serving.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the Cointreau and lime juice in a pitcher up to a few hours in advance. Store it in the fridge, and when it’s time to serve, pour over ice and top with club soda. Super easy for parties.
Substitutions
– No lime? Use lemon juice for a slightly different citrus kick.
– Don’t have Cointreau? Try another triple sec or orange liqueur like Grand Marnier.
– Want a twist? Swap club soda for flavored sparkling water (like grapefruit or blood orange) for a subtle change.
How It Tastes
Bright, zesty, and not too sweet. You get the lovely orange notes from the Cointreau balanced by the tartness of lime and the crisp fizz of soda. It’s like sipping sunshine—light and super refreshing.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights. It’s quick to make, easy to tweak, and always feels a little celebratory.
Serving Suggestions
Cointreau Fizz pairs beautifully with:
– Spicy tapas: The citrus cuts through heat and oil perfectly.
– Grilled seafood: Think shrimp skewers, grilled calamari, or fish tacos.
– Fresh salads: Especially ones with citrus vinaigrettes or creamy cheeses.
Variations to Try
Berry Fizz
– Muddle a few raspberries or strawberries in the bottom of your glass before adding the other ingredients. Adds a fruity twist and a gorgeous color.
Spicy Fizz
– Add a thin slice of jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle heat that plays well with the citrus.
Herbal Fizz
– Clap a sprig of thyme, basil, or rosemary between your hands and drop it into the glass. The aroma adds a lovely layer of complexity.
Non-Alcoholic Version
– Replace Cointreau with orange syrup or cordial and add a splash of non-alcoholic bitters if you have them. Follow the same steps—it’s just as refreshing.
Storage
This cocktail is best served fresh. If you’re prepping ahead, mix only the Cointreau and lime juice. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours and add soda and ice just before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Using bottled lime juice: It’s just not the same—always go fresh.
– Skipping the stir: A gentle stir brings the flavors together without losing the fizz.
– Overfilling with soda: Too much and it waters down the flavor. Stick to 3–4 oz (90–120 ml).
Quick Q&A
Can I use tonic water instead of club soda?
Yes, but it’ll add a slightly bitter note. Try it if you like gin and tonics.
Is it okay to skip the garnish?
Absolutely. But a little garnish adds aroma and makes it feel special.
Can I batch this for a party?
Yes! Mix the Cointreau and lime juice in a pitcher. When ready to serve, pour over ice and top with soda individually.
What glass should I use?
A highball or Collins glass is perfect—it lets the bubbles rise and gives you room for ice.
Final Thoughts
The Cointreau Fizz is the kind of cocktail you’ll keep coming back to. It’s easy, elegant, and endlessly customizable. Whether you stick to the classic or try one of the fun variations, it always feels like a treat. Serve it with light bites or just sip it solo—either way, it’s a little burst of brightness in a glass.
