The Violet Fizz is one of those cocktails that feels like a little celebration in a glass-light, floral, and sparkling. With its soft purple hue and delicate fizz, it’s just the thing for spring brunches, garden parties, or whenever you want something that’s as pretty as it is refreshing. I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I learned while perfecting it: don’t skip the fresh lemon juice-it brightens everything up.
Violet Fizz
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glassware: Highball or Collins glass
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) gin
– 1 oz (30 ml) violet liqueur (like Crème de Violette)
– ½ oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
– ½ oz (15 ml) simple syrup
– 1 egg white (optional, for a silky foam)
– Soda water, to top
– Ice
– Lemon twist or violet petals, for garnish
Method
- In a cocktail shaker, add the gin, violet liqueur, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white (if you’re using it).
- Give it a dry shake (no ice) for about 15 seconds. This helps the egg white get nice and foamy.
- Add a handful of ice and shake again until the shaker feels cold-about 20 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled highball glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with cold soda water. Pour gently so you don’t lose the foam.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or a few edible violet petals if you have them.
Tips & Notes
– Chill your glass ahead of time to keep the fizz going longer.
– Use fresh lemon juice-it makes a world of difference.
– Want more fizz? Add the soda water just before serving and stir gently.
– Adjust the sweetness by playing with the amount of simple syrup and violet liqueur. More lemon = more tartness, more syrup = sweeter.
Ingredient Swaps
– Swap gin for vodka if you prefer a smoother, more neutral base.
– No violet liqueur? Try lavender syrup, rose syrup, or elderflower cordial for a similar floral vibe.
– If you’re avoiding raw egg, skip it! The drink will still be delicious, just not as frothy.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can mix everything except the soda water and egg white ahead of time and keep it chilled. When ready to serve, shake with egg white (if using), add ice, and top with soda water.
Storage
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store the mixed base (without egg or soda) in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Give it a good shake before serving.
Serving Suggestions
The Violet Fizz shines when paired with light, elegant dishes:
Perfect Pairings
– Bruschetta or caprese salad: The acidity and herbs match beautifully with the floral sweetness.
– Grilled shrimp or oysters: The fizz complements the briny, delicate flavors.
– Vanilla panna cotta or shortbread cookies: Soft, creamy desserts highlight the floral notes.
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner cocktails because this one always gets a “wow” when I serve it. It’s simple to make but feels a little fancy.
Try These Variations
Rose Fizz
– Replace violet liqueur with rose syrup
– Keep everything else the same
Lavender Fizz
– Use lavender syrup instead of violet liqueur
– Adds a soothing, herbal twist
Elderflower Fizz
– Sub in elderflower cordial
– Pairs especially well with gin and lemon
Virgin Violet Fizz
– Skip the gin
– Use extra soda water and a splash more lemon juice
– Add a little extra simple syrup if needed
Common Questions
Can I make it without alcohol?
Yes! Just leave out the gin and add a bit more soda water or lemon juice for balance.
Is it gluten-free?
Usually, yes. But double-check your violet liqueur and any flavored syrups, as some may contain gluten.
How do I get more fizz?
Use very cold soda water and add it right before serving. Don’t stir too hard or you’ll lose the bubbles.
Can I use dried violets?
Definitely. They make a beautiful garnish. Just make sure they’re food-safe and unsprayed.
When’s the best time to enjoy a Violet Fizz?
It’s ideal for spring and summer afternoons, but honestly, it’s a lovely pick-me-up any time of year.
Too sweet?
Cut back on the simple syrup or violet liqueur. A little extra lemon juice can also help balance things out.
This cocktail has become my go-to for summer nights on the patio. It’s light, floral, and just the right amount of fancy without any fuss. Once you try it, I think you’ll come back to it again and again.
