The White Lily cocktail is a timeless classic—elegant, citrusy, and oh-so-refreshing. It’s one of those drinks that feels just as at home at a chic dinner party as it does on a quiet evening when you’re craving something special. I’ve made this cocktail countless times, and every sip reminds me why it’s a favorite. Let me walk you through how to make it, share a few tips I’ve picked up, and even show you some fun variations to try.
White Lily
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for one perfect White Lily cocktail:
- 1 oz (30 ml) gin
- 1 oz (30 ml) orange liqueur (like Cointreau or Triple Sec)
- 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
- A dash of absinthe (be careful—just a dash!)
You’ll also need a cocktail shaker, ice, and a chilled cocktail or coupe glass for serving.
Prep Time & Servings
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 1 cocktail
Method
- Start by chilling your cocktail glass. Pop it in the freezer or fill it with ice water while you prepare the drink.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, orange liqueur, and lemon juice. Add a dash of absinthe—a little goes a long way here!
- Fill the shaker with ice, then shake it vigorously for about 15 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when the outside of the shaker feels frosty and cold.
- Dump out the ice or water from your chilled glass, then strain the cocktail into it. You want that silky, smooth finish.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the subtle, citrusy magic of the White Lily.
Tips for the Perfect White Lily
- Fresh lemon juice is key. Bottled juice just doesn’t have the same brightness.
- Chill your glass—it keeps the drink crisp and refreshing from the first sip to the last.
- When adding absinthe, less is more. It’s there to enhance the flavors, not take over.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can prep a batch of this cocktail ahead of time for a party! Mix the gin, orange liqueur, and lemon juice in a pitcher and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, pour into a shaker with ice, add the absinthe, and shake just before serving.
Substitutions & Variations
If you’re missing an ingredient or just want to mix things up, here are some ideas:
- No absinthe? Try a tiny splash of pastis or skip it altogether.
- Out of lemon juice? Lime juice works too, though the flavor will be a little zestier.
- Want something sweeter? Use elderflower liqueur instead of orange liqueur.
Fun White Lily Variations
Sometimes I like to tweak the classic recipe for a fresh twist. Here are a few of my favorite variations:
Summer Lily
- Ingredients: Add a few cucumber slices and fresh mint leaves.
- Method: Muddle the cucumber and mint with the lemon juice in the shaker before adding the other ingredients.
Blushing Lily
- Ingredients: Add a splash of cranberry juice.
- Method: Shake it up with the other ingredients for a beautiful pink hue.
Golden Lily
- Ingredients: Replace the orange liqueur with a honey syrup (equal parts honey and water, warmed to combine).
- Method: Shake the honey syrup with the gin, lemon juice, and absinthe for a richer, warmer flavor.
Virgin White Lily (Non-Alcoholic)
- Ingredients: Mix 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lemon juice, a dash of rose water, and top with sparkling water.
- Method: Stir together and serve in a chilled glass for a refreshing mocktail.
Serving Suggestions
The White Lily is a versatile cocktail that pairs beautifully with light, elegant foods. Here are a few ideas:
- Cheese Plate: Creamy brie or tangy goat cheese complements the cocktail’s citrus notes.
- Seafood: Oysters or a shrimp cocktail are perfect matches for the drink’s crisp, floral flavors.
- Finger Foods: Think delicate canapés or smoked salmon bites—simple, elegant, and delicious.
Bartender Tips
- Use a dropper or dasher for the absinthe to avoid overdoing it.
- For a fancy touch, garnish with a twist of lemon peel or a sprinkle of edible flowers.
- If you like a little fizz, top the cocktail with a splash of soda water before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of gin?
Absolutely! A dry gin works best, but you can experiment with floral or citrus-forward gins to find your favorite.
How do I make it less sweet?
Reduce the orange liqueur slightly or swap it for a less sweet alternative like Grand Marnier.
Can I batch this for a crowd?
Yes! Mix the gin, orange liqueur, and lemon juice ahead of time. Add ice and absinthe to each serving when ready to shake and pour.
What’s the best garnish for a White Lily?
A simple lemon twist works beautifully. For extra flair, try a few drops of bitters swirled on top or a sprig of fresh thyme.
Why I Love the White Lily
There’s something timeless about this cocktail. It’s light and refreshing, yet it has layers of flavor that keep you coming back for another sip. Whether I’m serving it at a party or just unwinding at home, the White Lily always feels like a little celebration in a glass. Give it a try—you might just fall in love with it too.
