A Sunflower cocktail is like sunshine in a glass—bright, zesty, and oh-so-refreshing. With its citrus-forward flavor and a touch of herbal depth, it’s the kind of drink that instantly lifts your mood. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it never fails to impress guests or bring a little joy to an ordinary evening. Whether you’re lounging on a patio or winding down after work, this one’s a keeper.
Sunflower
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glassware: Coupe or Martini glass
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) vodka
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) triple sec (or Cointreau for a smoother finish)
– 0.75 oz (22 ml) fresh lemon juice
– 0.25 oz (7 ml) simple syrup (adjust to taste)
– A dash of absinthe (or use a few drops of anise-flavored syrup as a non-alcoholic option)
– Lemon twist or edible flower petal, for garnish
– Ice
Method
- Chill your glass. Pop your coupe or martini glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water while you prep the drink. This keeps everything nice and cold.
- Shake it up. In a cocktail shaker, add vodka, triple sec, lemon juice, simple syrup, and a handful of ice. Shake it hard—about 15 seconds—until the outside of the shaker feels frosty.
- Strain and serve. Discard the ice from your chilled glass, then strain the cocktail into it.
- Add the absinthe. Just a small dash does the trick. It adds a whisper of herbal complexity without overpowering the drink.
- Garnish. Twist a strip of lemon peel over the glass to release the oils, then drop it in. Or, if you have one on hand, a sunflower petal makes for a beautiful touch.
Tips for the Best Sunflower
- Use fresh lemon juice. It really makes a difference. Bottled juice can taste flat and overly acidic.
- Don’t overdo the absinthe. It’s strong stuff. A few drops or a quick rinse of the glass is all you need for that signature flavor.
- Adjust sweetness to your taste. Start with less simple syrup—you can always add more if you want it sweeter.
Make-Ahead Notes
Planning for a gathering? You can batch the base (vodka, triple sec, lemon juice, and simple syrup) ahead of time and keep it chilled in the fridge. Shake individual servings with ice just before pouring. Add the absinthe and garnish right before serving.
Storage
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, but if you’ve mixed a batch, it’ll keep in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to give it a good stir or shake before serving again.
Serving Suggestions
This drink shines on warm evenings, but it’s a crowd-pleaser year-round. Serve it with:
- Grilled shrimp or salmon. The lemony brightness cuts through the richness of seafood.
- Spicy Thai or Mexican dishes. The citrus and slight sweetness help balance out the heat.
- Light salads. Especially those with citrusy vinaigrettes or fresh herbs like mint or basil.
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-work cocktails—this one hits just the right notes of tart and sweet, and it’s easy to customize to suit your mood.
Variations to Try
Sunset Sunflower
– Add a splash (about 0.5 oz / 15 ml) of cranberry juice for a soft pink hue and a touch of berry flavor. Shake with the other ingredients.
Herbal Sunflower
– Muddle a small sprig of rosemary or basil with the simple syrup before adding the rest of the ingredients. It adds a lovely aromatic layer.
Spicy Sunflower
– Infuse your simple syrup with a slice of jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne. It gives the drink a gentle heat that pairs well with the citrus.
Virgin Sunflower (Non-Alcoholic)
– Swap vodka for sparkling water or lemon soda. Leave out the absinthe. You’ll still get that bright, refreshing flavor with none of the alcohol.
Ingredient Swaps
- Vodka: Use gin for a more botanical twist.
- Triple sec: Cointreau or orange liqueur works great for a richer citrus note.
- Simple syrup: Honey syrup or agave nectar are tasty natural alternatives.
- Lemon juice: Lime juice or a splash of orange juice can work in a pinch, though the flavor will change slightly.
Common Questions
Can I skip the absinthe?
Yes. If you’re not a fan or don’t have it on hand, leave it out or use a tiny bit of anise-flavored syrup instead.
Is it okay to make this drink sweeter or less sweet?
Absolutely. Just adjust the amount of simple syrup to your taste. Start light and add more if needed.
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Definitely. Mix everything except the absinthe in a pitcher and chill. Add absinthe and garnish each glass individually when serving.
What’s the point of the garnish?
It’s not just for looks! A lemon twist adds aroma and a little extra zing. If you’re feeling fancy, a sunflower petal makes a stunning touch.
When’s the best time to enjoy a Sunflower?
It’s a natural fit for summer, but its brightness makes it great any time you need a little pick-me-up.
The Sunflower is simple, elegant, and endlessly customizable. Once you’ve got the hang of the classic version, try experimenting with your own twists. Whether you’re mixing up a single glass or prepping a batch for friends, this cocktail is sure to bring some sunshine to your day.
