A Lychee Martini is one of those drinks that feels like a little celebration in a glass—sweet, floral, and just strong enough to make you smile. It brings together vodka and the juicy flavor of lychee fruit, topped off with a citrusy splash. It’s light, refreshing, and always a hit at gatherings. I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I picked up along the way: don’t skip chilling your glass—it keeps the drink crisp right to the last sip.
Lychee Martini
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Equipment: Cocktail shaker, jigger or shot glass, strainer, Martini glass (or similar)
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) vodka
– 1 oz (30 ml) lychee juice (from canned lychees or bottled)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) triple sec (or another orange liqueur)
– 1 whole lychee (fresh or canned), for garnish
– Ice cubes
Optional substitutions:
– Use gin instead of vodka for a floral twist
– Swap triple sec with elderflower liqueur for a lighter, floral note
– No lychee juice? Use syrup from canned lychees—it’s sweet and packed with flavor
Method
- Chill your glass. Pop your Martini glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water while you prep. A cold glass keeps the drink fresh and vibrant.
- Fill your shaker with ice. About halfway is perfect. This cools the drink quickly without watering it down too much.
- Pour in the vodka, lychee juice, and triple sec. Measure and add directly over the ice. If you’re using syrup from canned lychees instead of juice, taste as you go—it’s sweeter, so you may want a little less.
- Shake well. Close the shaker tightly and shake for about 15 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when the outside of the shaker feels icy cold.
- Strain into your chilled glass. Empty the ice water if you used it to chill, then strain the cocktail in. It should look clear and slightly pearly.
- Garnish with a lychee. Drop one in the glass or skewer it on a cocktail pick. It looks elegant and gives a little sweet bite at the end.
Tips & Tricks
– Don’t overshake. It’s tempting to really go for it, but too much shaking dilutes the drink. Around 15 seconds is just right.
– Fresh lychees are a treat if you can find them, but canned ones work beautifully too.
– A Martini glass is classic, but a coupe or even a small wine glass will do in a pinch.
– Want it less sweet? Cut the lychee juice to 0.75 oz (22 ml) and add a splash of fresh lime juice for brightness.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Planning a party? You can mix a big batch of this cocktail ahead of time. Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings and combine in a pitcher. Chill in the fridge (don’t add ice or garnish yet). Stir gently before serving and pour over ice or into chilled glasses.
Leftover canned lychees? Keep them in their syrup in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay good for about a week and are great in sparkling water or over ice cream.
Serving Ideas
This drink pairs beautifully with:
– Sushi or sashimi: The sweet fruitiness plays off the savory umami.
– Spicy Thai or Indian dishes: The lychee helps cool down the heat.
– Grilled chicken skewers or shrimp: The charred flavor contrasts nicely with the fruity notes.
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner cocktails—this one always brings compliments, especially when paired with something spicy or salty.
Variations to Try
Rosé Lychee Martini
– Add a splash of chilled rosé wine after shaking for a delicate floral twist.
– Top off the strained cocktail with 1 oz (30 ml) rosé.
Spicy Lychee Martini
– Muddle a thin slice of jalapeño in the shaker before adding other ingredients.
– Shake, strain, and garnish with a tiny pepper ring or mint sprig.
Coconut Lychee Martini
– Use coconut vodka or add 0.5 oz (15 ml) coconut water to the shaker.
– Garnish with toasted coconut flakes or a lime wedge.
Non-Alcoholic Lychee Fizz
– Mix 2 oz (60 ml) lychee juice with 1 oz (30 ml) lime juice.
– Top with soda water and garnish with a lychee.
Helpful Q&A
Can I make this without lychee juice?
Yes! Use the syrup from canned lychees instead. It’s sweet and flavorful—just reduce the amount slightly.
What’s a good alcohol-free alternative to vodka?
Try soda water, coconut water, or even a splash of white grape juice to mimic the clean taste of vodka.
How can I make it look fancy?
Garnish with a lychee on a cocktail pick, a lime twist, or even an edible flower for a stunning look.
How strong is a Lychee Martini?
It’s similar in strength to a classic Martini, but the sweetness can make it feel lighter. Sip slowly!
Can I batch this for a party?
Absolutely. Just mix the vodka, juice, and triple sec in a pitcher. Chill and stir before serving. Garnish each glass individually.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights with friends—it’s easy, elegant, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making one for yourself or a tray for guests, the Lychee Martini is a delicious way to shake up your cocktail routine.
