The Fuzz Ball cocktail is one of those bright, bubbly drinks that just screams summer. It’s sweet, fruity, and has a peachy-orange flavor that goes down easy-maybe a little too easy. Whether you’re hanging by the pool, hosting a backyard BBQ, or just winding down after work, this is a simple, crowd-pleasing cocktail that’s as fun to make as it is to sip.
Fuzz Ball
I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I learned while perfecting the recipe: fresh-squeezed orange juice makes a huge difference. It brings a natural brightness that balances the sweetness of the schnapps.
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glass type: Highball or Collins glass
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) peach schnapps
– 3 oz (90 ml) orange juice (fresh is best!)
– 2 oz (60 ml) sparkling soda (like club soda or lemon-lime soda)
– Ice, enough to fill your glass
– 1 orange slice, for garnish
Method
- Start by filling a highball glass with ice. You want it nice and cold from the first sip.
- Pour in 1.5 oz (45 ml) of peach schnapps.
- Add 3 oz (90 ml) of orange juice. Freshly squeezed gives the best flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.
- Top it off with 2 oz (60 ml) of sparkling soda. Club soda keeps it light, while lemon-lime soda adds extra sweetness.
- Give it a gentle stir-just enough to mix, not flatten the fizz.
- Garnish with a fresh orange slice right on the rim or floating on top.
Tips & Tricks
– Chill your glass ahead of time to keep the drink colder longer. Just pop it in the freezer for 10 minutes before making your cocktail.
– Want to switch it up? Try ginger ale instead of soda for a bit of spice, or use pineapple juice in place of orange for a tropical twist.
– Too sweet? Cut the schnapps to 1 oz (30 ml) and add a splash more soda.
– Making it for a group? Multiply the ingredients and mix in a pitcher, then pour over ice in individual glasses. Just hold off on the soda until right before serving to keep it fizzy.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the peach schnapps and orange juice a few hours ahead and store it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just pour over ice and top with soda. Don’t add the soda early-it’ll go flat.
Storage
If you’ve got leftover mixed schnapps and juice, pop it in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 2 days. Just remember to add fresh soda when serving.
Serving Suggestions
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights with friends. It pairs especially well with:
– Grilled chicken skewers: The sweet drink balances out the savory, smoky flavor.
– Fresh fruit salad: A cool, juicy side that highlights the cocktail’s peachy notes.
– Cheese platter: Creamy brie or tangy goat cheese adds a nice contrast to the sweetness.
Variations
If you’re in the mood to try something new, here are a few spins on the Fuzz Ball:
Fuzzy Navel
– Equal parts peach schnapps and orange juice over ice. No soda. Simpler, sweeter.
Peach Bellini
– Swap out the schnapps and soda for peach purée and Prosecco. Bubbly and elegant.
Peach Margarita
– Combine tequila, peach schnapps, and lime juice. Shake with ice and serve in a salted-rim glass.
Virgin Fuzz Ball (Non-Alcoholic)
– Replace peach schnapps with peach nectar and use club soda or sparkling water. Same fruity fizz, no alcohol.
Ingredient Swaps
– No peach schnapps? Try apricot brandy for a warmer fruit flavor.
– Out of orange juice? Pineapple or mango juice both work beautifully.
– Don’t like soda? Use sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime for a lighter version.
FAQs
Can I use a different schnapps flavor?
Absolutely. Apricot or raspberry schnapps will give you a fun twist.
What if I don’t have a highball glass?
Any tall glass will do. A Collins glass is a great backup.
How do I make a less fizzy version?
Use less sparkling soda or replace it with still water or juice.
Can I make this in a pitcher?
Yes! Just multiply the ingredients, mix everything except the soda, and add soda right before serving.
What’s the best garnish?
An orange slice or even a peach wedge works beautifully for that fruity finish.
This cocktail is all about easy, breezy fun. It’s quick to make, doesn’t require fancy ingredients, and always gets compliments. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll probably start keeping peach schnapps on hand just for this. Cheers!
