A Peach Melba cocktail is like summer in a glass—sweet, tangy, and refreshing. Inspired by the classic dessert, this drink blends juicy peaches and tart raspberries with a splash of vodka for a perfectly balanced sip. It’s one of my favorite cocktails for warm evenings, and after making it countless times, I’ve picked up a few tricks to make it even better.
Peach Melba
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) peach nectar – Fresh or store-bought works, but fresh gives a brighter flavor
- 1 oz (30ml) raspberry puree – Blend fresh raspberries or use store-bought puree
- 1.5 oz (45ml) vodka – A smooth, good-quality vodka makes a difference
- 0.5 oz (15ml) lemon juice – Freshly squeezed for the best zing
- 0.5 oz (15ml) simple syrup – Adjust to taste, or swap for honey/agave
- Ice cubes – Enough to fill your shaker
- Fresh raspberries – For garnish
Glass: A chilled martini glass shows off the cocktail’s gorgeous color, but a coupe glass works too.
How to Make It
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the peach nectar, raspberry puree, vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well until the outside of the shaker feels cold—about 15 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a fresh raspberry and serve immediately.
Tip: Want a smoother drink? Strain the raspberry puree to remove seeds before mixing.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Make-ahead: Mix everything except the ice and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake with ice just before serving.
- Leftovers: Not likely, but if you have any, keep it chilled and drink within a day for the freshest taste.
Substitutions & Variations
- No peach nectar? Blend fresh peaches with a little water.
- Prefer gin? Swap vodka for gin for a more herbal twist.
- Want a mocktail? Skip the vodka and top with sparkling water or lemonade.
Fun Variations
Bellini Melba – Replace vodka with Prosecco for a bubbly twist.
Bourbon Melba Smash – Use bourbon instead of vodka and muddle fresh peaches for a richer flavor.
Frozen Melba Margarita – Blend everything with ice and use tequila instead of vodka.
What to Serve With It
This cocktail pairs beautifully with light, fresh dishes:
- Grilled chicken – The smoky flavor complements the fruity drink.
- Vanilla panna cotta – Echoes the classic Peach Melba dessert.
- Arugula salad with goat cheese – The peppery greens balance the cocktail’s sweetness.
Tips for the Best Peach Melba Cocktail
- Use fresh peach nectar if possible—it makes a huge difference.
- Chill your glass beforehand to keep the drink extra cold.
- Adjust sweetness to taste—if your peaches are super sweet, you might not need as much syrup.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Just mix everything except the ice and shake when ready to serve.
What’s the best vodka to use?
A smooth, high-quality vodka works best so it doesn’t overpower the fruit flavors.
How can I garnish it?
Try a fresh raspberry, a peach slice, or even a sprig of mint.
Can I use canned peaches?
Yes, just blend them into a puree and watch out for added sugars.
Is this cocktail only for summer?
It’s a summer favorite, but the bright flavors can liven up any season!
This Peach Melba cocktail is one of my go-to drinks when I want something fruity, refreshing, and a little special. Whether you’re sipping it on a warm evening or bringing a taste of summer to cooler months, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!
