A South Beach cocktail is like sunshine in a glass—fruity, refreshing, and full of tropical vibes. It’s the kind of drink that makes you feel like you’re lounging on a beach, even if you’re just in your backyard. I’ve made this cocktail countless times for summer get-togethers, and it never fails to impress. Let’s walk through how to make this vibrant, easy-to-mix drink at home.
South Beach
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 1.5 oz (45ml) vodka
- 0.5 oz (15ml) white rum
- 2 oz (60ml) orange juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 2 oz (60ml) cranberry juice
- 0.5 oz (15ml) peach schnapps
- A splash of lemon-lime soda
- Ice
For garnish:
- Orange slice or maraschino cherry
Glass: A highball glass works best for this drink, showing off its bright layers. If you’re feeling fancy, a martini glass gives it a more sophisticated look.
How to Make It
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, then pour in the vodka, rum, orange juice, cranberry juice, and peach schnapps.
- Shake well for about 10–15 seconds until everything is nicely chilled.
- Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with a splash of lemon-lime soda for a fizzy finish.
- Garnish with an orange slice or cherry, and enjoy!
Tip: If you’re making this for a party, mix everything except the soda in a large pitcher ahead of time. Keep it chilled and just add soda before serving to keep the bubbles fresh.
Making It Your Own
Want to tweak the flavors? Here are some fun variations:
- Tropical Twist: Swap peach schnapps for coconut rum for a beachier feel.
- Less Sweet: Reduce the cranberry and orange juice, and add a little extra soda.
- Berry Beach: Replace the cranberry and orange juice with a mix of berry juices.
- Spicy Kick: Muddle a slice of jalapeño in the shaker before adding the liquors.
- Sunset Look: Drizzle a little grenadine at the bottom of the glass before pouring in the cocktail for a layered effect.
For a non-alcoholic version, skip the vodka and rum, and mix the juices with soda for a fruity, fizzy mocktail.
Perfect Pairings
This cocktail shines even brighter with the right bites. Here are some great food pairings:
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: The citrusy drink balances the smoky, savory flavors.
- Shrimp Tacos: The tropical notes of the cocktail pair perfectly with zesty seafood.
- Key Lime Pie: The tartness of the pie complements the citrusy flavors in the drink.
Tips for the Best South Beach Cocktail
- Use fresh juice whenever possible—it makes a huge difference in flavor.
- Chill your glass before serving to keep your drink colder for longer.
- Don’t overdo the soda. A splash is all you need to keep the flavors balanced.
I’ve been making this cocktail for years, and one trick I’ve learned is to shake it just enough—too little and it won’t mix well, too much and it gets too diluted.
FAQs
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Yes! Just multiply the ingredients and mix in a large pitcher. Add the soda right before serving to keep it fizzy.
What’s the best way to garnish it?
A simple orange slice or cherry works well, but you can also skewer some tropical fruit for extra flair.
Can I use bottled juice?
You can, but fresh juice makes a world of difference. It’s worth the extra step!
How do I make it less sweet?
Use less peach schnapps and juice, and add a little more soda or even some sparkling water.
When’s the best time to serve this?
It’s a summer classic, but honestly, it’s a great pick-me-up any time of year when you’re craving a taste of the tropics.
This cocktail is like a mini vacation in a glass—bright, refreshing, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a party or just treating yourself, it’s an easy way to bring a little South Beach sunshine into your day. Cheers! 🍹
