If you’re looking for a cocktail that’s bright, a little cheeky, and incredibly refreshing, the Little Devil might just become your new favorite. It’s citrusy, smooth, and has just the right amount of sweetness to keep you coming back for more. I’ve made this drink countless times-especially on warm evenings when I want something simple but a little playful-and I’ve picked up a few tips along the way that I’ll share below.
Little Devil
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glassware: Cocktail or martini glass
Make-ahead friendly: Yes (see tips below)
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) white rum
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) triple sec
– 0.25 oz (7.5 ml) simple syrup
– Ice (for shaking)
– Optional garnish: lemon twist or small chili pepper
Method
- Chill your cocktail glass in the freezer or by filling it with ice water while you prep the drink.
- In a cocktail shaker, add the white rum, lemon juice, triple sec, and simple syrup.
- Fill the shaker with ice, cover, and shake hard for about 15 seconds. You want the outside of the shaker to feel frosty.
- Dump the ice from your chilled glass (if using) and strain the cocktail into it.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or a small chili pepper for a bit of flair.
Tips for Success
– Use fresh lemon juice-it makes a world of difference in flavor.
– Don’t skip chilling the glass; it helps keep the drink crisp longer.
– If your cocktail tastes too sweet, just dial back the simple syrup a bit or use a squeeze more lemon.
– For a lower-sugar option, swap simple syrup with agave nectar or a sugar-free alternative.
Storage & Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the rum, triple sec, lemon juice, and syrup ahead of time and store the mixture in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good shake with ice when you’re ready to serve. This is great if you’re making a few drinks for guests.
Serving Suggestions
The Little Devil shines as a pre-dinner drink or a poolside refresher. Its zesty flavor also makes it a fun addition to any summer get-together.
Pair it with:
– Spicy tapas: The citrus helps cool things down while still keeping the flavor bold.
– Grilled shrimp or fish tacos: The smoky-sweet combo works perfectly with the tartness of the drink.
– Dark chocolate truffles: A surprising match, but the bittersweet chocolate pairs beautifully with the cocktail’s citrusy bite.
Recipe Variations
Here’s where you can have a little fun. I thought I’d share one of my favorite tweaks to this cocktail that gives it a whole new personality.
Fiery Devil
– Add a dash of hot sauce or muddle a slice of jalapeño before shaking.
– Great for spice lovers looking for a little kick.
Angel’s Kiss
– Muddle a few fresh strawberries in the shaker before adding other ingredients.
– A touch of fruitiness softens the citrus punch.
Tropical Devil
– Add a splash of coconut milk and a wedge of pineapple.
– Creamy, smooth, and vacation-ready.
Virgin Little Devil
– Skip the rum and use soda water instead.
– Add a little extra lemon juice for a tangy, alcohol-free refresher.
Ingredient Swaps
– No white rum? Try vodka or gin for a different base flavor.
– Out of triple sec? Use Cointreau or another orange liqueur.
– Prefer lime? Swap lemon juice for lime for a more tropical twist.
– Want it richer? Honey or agave instead of simple syrup adds complexity.
Helpful Notes
– Triple sec is an orange-flavored liqueur. If you’re new to it, it’s what brings the slight citrus sweetness that balances the tart lemon.
– Simple syrup is just equal parts sugar and water, heated until the sugar dissolves. You can make a small batch and keep it in the fridge for up to a month.
– When shaking, you’re not just mixing-you’re chilling and slightly diluting the drink, which smooths out the flavors.
FAQs
Can I make a pitcher of Little Devils?
Absolutely! Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings, mix everything except the ice, and store in the fridge. Shake individual servings with ice when ready to serve.
How do I tone down the sweetness?
Cut back the simple syrup or replace it with a less sweet option like agave. Adding a bit more lemon juice also helps.
What’s the best garnish?
A twist of lemon adds a fresh aroma, while a small chili pepper gives it a spicy edge-perfect if you’re making a Fiery Devil.
Is this drink good year-round?
Definitely. In warmer months, it’s super refreshing. In cooler months, swap the garnish to something seasonal like a thin orange slice or even a cinnamon stick for a twist.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
You can, but fresh juice really brings the zing. Bottled lemon juice tends to be more acidic and flat in flavor.
Whether you’re mixing one up for yourself or shaking a batch for friends, the Little Devil is easy to love and even easier to customize. It’s one of those cocktails that always gets a little “Ooh, what’s that?” when served. Give it a try and make it your own-you might just find it becomes your go-to too.
