When the weather warms up and strawberries are at their peak, this is the cocktail I reach for. The Strawberry Fizz is light, bubbly, and full of fresh berry flavor with just the right zing of citrus. It’s perfect for sunny afternoons, backyard brunches, or whenever you want something a little fancy without a lot of fuss. I’ve made this drink countless times-here’s a tip I picked up: using super ripe strawberries makes all the difference in flavor.
Strawberry Fizz
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glass: Highball or Collins glass
Ingredients
– 3-4 large fresh strawberries (plus more for garnish)
– 45 ml (1.5 oz) gin
– 15 ml (0.5 oz) simple syrup
– 15 ml (0.5 oz) fresh lemon juice
– 1 egg white (optional, for a creamy froth)
– Soda water, to top
– Ice, as needed
Substitutions:
– Swap gin for vodka for a milder taste
– Use honey or agave instead of simple syrup
– For more zing, try sparkling lemonade or ginger beer instead of soda water
– No egg white? Skip it-it’s optional
Method
- In a cocktail shaker, add the strawberries. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to crush them well and release their juice.
- Pour in the gin, simple syrup, and lemon juice. If you’re using the egg white, add it now.
- Fill the shaker with ice. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds-if you’re using egg white, shake until it feels nicely chilled and you hear a slightly sloshy sound.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled highball glass filled with fresh ice. If you want it extra smooth, use a fine mesh strainer.
- Top with soda water. Stir gently to mix. Don’t over-stir or you’ll lose those lovely bubbles.
- Garnish with a strawberry slice or a sprig of mint for a fresh touch.
Tips & Tricks
– Use ripe strawberries: The sweeter they are, the better your drink will taste.
– Chill your glass ahead of time: It keeps everything crisp and refreshing.
– Don’t skip the shake: Especially if using egg white-it creates that velvety, frothy top layer.
– Taste as you go: Want it less sweet? Dial back the syrup. More tang? Add a splash more lemon.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can muddle the strawberries and mix the gin, lemon juice, and syrup up to a few hours ahead. Keep it chilled and covered in the fridge. Just wait to add the egg white, ice, and soda water until you’re ready to serve-it’s all about the fizz and freshness.
Storage
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftover mixed base (without soda), it’ll keep for a day in the fridge, but once it’s fizzy, drink it right away.
Serving Suggestions
This drink shines alongside light, summery dishes. Here are a few pairings I love:
Brunch Favorites
Eggs Benedict, crispy bacon, or even a savory galette all go beautifully with the fizz’s bright, fruity notes.
Grilled Chicken
The smoky char pairs nicely with the cocktail’s citrus and strawberry sweetness.
Fresh Summer Salads
Think arugula, goat cheese, and a balsamic glaze. The drink’s bubbles and fruitiness cut through and balance the flavors.
Variations to Try
Rosé Strawberry Fizz
– Replace gin with 45 ml (1.5 oz) chilled rosé wine
– Follow the same steps; skip the egg white for a lighter version
Spicy Strawberry Fizz
– Add a thin slice of jalapeño when muddling the strawberries
– It adds a gentle heat that plays beautifully with the sweetness
Strawberry Basil Fizz
– Muddle 2-3 fresh basil leaves with the strawberries
– Gives the drink a lovely herbal lift
Virgin Strawberry Fizz
– Skip the gin
– Muddle strawberries with lemon juice and syrup, then top with soda water
– It’s just as refreshing and perfect for everyone
FAQs
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, prep the base (strawberries, lemon juice, syrup, and gin) ahead of time. Just add ice and soda when you’re ready to serve.
What’s the best garnish?
A strawberry slice or a sprig of mint adds a pop of color and a nice aroma.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh is ideal, but if using frozen, thaw them first and expect a slightly softer texture.
How do I tone down the sweetness?
Use less simple syrup or switch to a natural sweetener like honey. You can also add more lemon juice for balance.
What’s the best gin to use?
A dry gin works well-it lets the strawberries shine. But feel free to try floral or citrus-forward gins too.
Can I use other berries?
Absolutely! Raspberries or blackberries are great options. Just adjust the sweetness as needed.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio. It’s simple, fresh, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making one for yourself or a batch for friends, the Strawberry Fizz brings a little sparkle to any moment.
