The Dirty Blonde cocktail is light, citrusy, and just the right amount of refreshing. It’s the kind of drink that feels perfect for warm afternoons, backyard gatherings, or anytime you want something crisp and easy to sip. The mix of vodka, triple sec, and lemon juice gives it a bright kick, while a splash of blonde ale adds a smooth, bubbly finish.
Dirty Blonde
I’ve made this drink countless times, and one thing I’ve learned? The beer you choose makes all the difference. A lighter blonde ale keeps it crisp, while a hoppier brew can add a little extra depth.
Ingredients
Makes 1 cocktail | Prep Time: 5 minutes
- 1.5 oz (45 ml) vodka
- 0.5 oz (15 ml) triple sec
- 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup
- 3 oz (90 ml) blonde ale
- Ice
For garnish:
- Lemon twist or a sprig of fresh herbs
What You’ll Need
- Cocktail shaker
- Strainer
- Highball glass (or a pint glass for a more casual feel)
How to Make a Dirty Blonde
- Fill a shaker with ice, then add the vodka, triple sec, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well for about 10-15 seconds until chilled.
- Strain into a highball glass filled with ice.
- Top with blonde ale and gently stir.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or a sprig of herbs.
That’s it—simple, refreshing, and ready to enjoy!
Tips for the Best Dirty Blonde
- Use fresh lemon juice. Bottled juice won’t give you the same bright, fresh flavor.
- Chill your glass. A quick pop in the freezer keeps your drink colder longer.
- Choose your beer wisely. A light, crisp blonde ale works best, but you can try a citrusy IPA for a bolder twist.
- Adjust the sweetness. Like it less sweet? Cut the simple syrup in half or skip it altogether.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Mix the base ahead. Combine the vodka, triple sec, lemon juice, and simple syrup and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, just add ice, shake, and top with beer.
- Don’t pre-mix with beer. It’ll lose its fizz if it sits too long.
Food Pairings
This cocktail pairs well with light, crispy, and citrusy dishes. Here are a few great options:
- Fried appetizers – Think calamari, mozzarella sticks, or even onion rings. The crispiness balances the drink’s refreshing citrus.
- Grilled chicken – The smoky, charred flavors work beautifully with the bright lemon notes.
- Fresh salads – A simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette makes a perfect match.
I love how the bubbles in this drink cut through rich, crispy foods—it’s like a palate cleanser in a glass!
Variations to Try
Want to switch things up? Here are a few fun twists on the Dirty Blonde:
Spicy Blonde
- Add a slice of jalapeño to the shaker before mixing.
- Garnish with another jalapeño slice for a little extra heat.
Berry Blonde
- Muddle fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries) before adding the other ingredients.
- Strain and top with beer as usual.
Autumn Blonde
- Swap the beer for apple cider and add a dash of cinnamon.
- Shake well and serve over ice.
Non-Alcoholic Version
- Skip the vodka and beer.
- Use sparkling water for fizz and a splash of non-alcoholic triple sec syrup for flavor.
Q&A
Can I use a different type of beer?
Yes! A citrus-infused IPA adds a more hoppy flavor, or try a wheat beer for a softer finish.
Can I make this for a party?
Absolutely! Multiply the ingredients and mix everything except the beer in a pitcher. When serving, pour over ice and top with beer.
What if I don’t have triple sec?
You can use Cointreau, Grand Marnier, or even a splash of orange juice as a substitute.
Is there a way to make it less sweet?
Just reduce the simple syrup or skip it altogether. The beer and lemon juice still provide plenty of balance.
What’s the best way to garnish it?
A lemon twist is classic, but a sprig of thyme or basil adds a fresh herbal touch.
That’s everything you need to make the perfect Dirty Blonde! Whether you’re sipping it on a sunny afternoon or mixing up a batch for friends, this cocktail is always a crowd-pleaser. Try a variation, pair it with something delicious, and enjoy every refreshing sip.
