There’s something truly special about the Sleeping Beauty cocktail. Light, floral, and just the right amount of sparkle-it’s the kind of drink that turns any evening into a little celebration. I’ve made this drink countless times, and I still look forward to that first sip every time. It’s elegant without trying too hard, and it’s surprisingly easy to make at home.
Sleeping Beauty
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glass: Champagne flute or white wine glass
Ingredients
– 1 oz (30 ml) orange liqueur (like Cointreau or Grand Marnier)
– ½ oz (15 ml) Crème de Violette (a floral liqueur that gives it that lovely purple hue)
– ½ oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
– 3 oz (90 ml) chilled Champagne (or dry sparkling wine like Prosecco)
– Lemon twist or edible flower, for garnish (optional)
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
- Pour in the orange liqueur, Crème de Violette, and lemon juice.
- Shake well-about 15 seconds-until the shaker feels frosty on the outside. That’s how you know it’s cold enough.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled Champagne flute.
- Top slowly with Champagne to keep the bubbles lively. Pouring at an angle helps.
- Give it a gentle stir and garnish with a lemon twist or an edible flower if you’re feeling fancy.
Tips & Tricks
– Chill everything: Keep your glass and Champagne extra cold for the best fizz and flavor.
– Don’t skip the shake: It blends the lemon and liqueurs while cooling the drink down-otherwise, it won’t taste balanced.
– Use fresh lemon juice: Bottled juice just doesn’t have the same brightness.
– Pick a dry bubbly: A Brut Champagne (or Brut-style Prosecco) keeps the drink from becoming too sweet.
Ingredient Swaps
– No Champagne? Use a dry sparkling wine like Cava or Prosecco.
– No Crème de Violette? Try elderflower liqueur for a different floral note.
– Want a lighter version? Use sparkling water with a splash of white grape juice for a non-alcoholic take.
– No orange liqueur? Orange syrup with a dash of bitters can work in a pinch.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the orange liqueur, Crème de Violette, and lemon juice ahead of time and keep it chilled in the fridge. Just add the Champagne right before serving to keep it bubbly.
Storage
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftover base (before the Champagne is added), it’ll keep in the fridge for up to 2 days in a sealed jar.
Serving Suggestions
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner cocktails-this one always gets compliments when served with:
– A small cheese board (soft cheeses like Brie or goat cheese pair beautifully)
– Fresh berry tart or lemon bars
– Light seafood appetizers like shrimp cocktail or smoked salmon bites
– Grilled chicken with herbs, especially in the summer
Why It Works
The lemon juice adds just enough acidity to cut through the sweetness of the liqueurs. Crème de Violette brings a floral aroma and a hint of violet flavor-it’s subtle but makes a big difference. The Champagne adds effervescence and dryness that ties everything together. It’s a cocktail that’s all about balance.
Fun Variations
Royal Slumber
– Swap Crème de Violette with elderflower liqueur
– Garnish with a sprig of mint
Enchanted Rose
– Add a few drops of rose water to the shaker
– Garnish with a rose petal
Midsummer Night’s Dream
– Add a splash of lavender syrup
– Shake as usual and garnish with a lemon twist
Virgin Sleeping Beauty (Alcohol-Free)
– 3 oz (90 ml) sparkling white grape juice
– ½ oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
– Splash of lavender syrup
– Stir and serve in a flute with a twist of lemon
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes-just mix the liqueurs and lemon juice, chill, and add Champagne right before serving.
What’s the best Champagne to use?
Go with a dry one-look for “Brut” on the label. It balances the sweetness of the other ingredients.
What does Crème de Violette taste like?
It’s floral and lightly sweet, with a violet candy-like note. Just a little goes a long way.
Can I use vodka instead of orange liqueur?
You can, but it’ll lose some of that citrusy depth. If you do, add a dash of orange extract or a bit of orange peel.
Why is the lemon juice important?
It brightens the drink and keeps it from tasting too sweet. It’s the secret to making the flavors pop.
Whether you’re celebrating something big or just winding down after a long day, the Sleeping Beauty is a lovely little indulgence. It’s floral, fizzy, and just fancy enough to make any moment feel special. Cheers!
