Zesty, refreshing, and just the right amount of sweet-this Xtc cocktail is one of those drinks you’ll find yourself craving on a warm evening or when you’re hosting friends. It’s light, citrusy, with a burst of mint that cools everything down in the best way. I’ve made this drink countless times-here’s a tip I learned while perfecting the recipe: go easy when muddling the mint. Bruising it too much can make your drink bitter instead of bright.
Xtc
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glassware: Highball glass or mason jar
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) vodka
– 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup
– A handful of fresh mint leaves (plus extra for garnish)
– Club soda, to top
– Ice cubes
Method
- In your glass, gently muddle the mint leaves with the simple syrup. Don’t mash them-just press enough to release their oils. You’ll smell the mint as it opens up, which is your sign to stop.
- Fill the glass with ice. Pour in the vodka and fresh lime juice.
- Top with club soda. Stir gently to combine everything without losing the fizz.
- Garnish with a fresh sprig of mint or a lime wheel. Serve immediately.
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh lime juice. Bottled juice just doesn’t have the same brightness.
– If you’re out of simple syrup, dissolve 1 tbsp sugar in 1 tbsp hot water as a quick fix.
– Want a lower-calorie version? Use a zero-calorie sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.
– Don’t over-muddle the mint. You want it fragrant, not bitter.
– If you’re hosting, prep the vodka, lime juice, and syrup in a pitcher. Just add club soda and ice to each glass right before serving.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the vodka, lime juice, and syrup up to a day ahead and store it in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, pour it over ice, top with club soda, and garnish. This makes party prep a breeze.
Storage
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh. If you happen to have leftovers (rare, but it happens), keep the base mix (vodka, lime, syrup) in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Don’t add club soda until you’re ready to drink-it’ll go flat.
Serving Suggestions
The Xtc pairs beautifully with:
Spicy Tapas
The cool mint and citrus cut through heat like a charm.
Fresh Seafood
Think grilled shrimp, ceviche, or fish tacos. The lime in the drink really brings out the seafood’s flavor.
Charred Veggies
Grilled zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers go surprisingly well with the cocktail’s bright notes.
Variations
Tropical Xtc
– Add 1 oz (30 ml) pineapple juice and a splash of coconut water.
– Garnish with a pineapple slice.
Berry Xtc
– Use berry-flavored vodka and muddle in a few fresh raspberries or blueberries with the mint.
– This one’s especially pretty with a sprig of mint and a couple berries floating on top.
Spicy Xtc
– Muddle a thin slice of jalapeño with the mint for a little heat.
– Or add a splash of jalapeño syrup for a sweet-spicy combo.
Non-Alcoholic Xtc
– Just skip the vodka and use more club soda.
– Add extra lime and mint to keep the flavor lively.
Optional Substitutions
– Vodka: Try gin for a more herbal flavor, or use white rum for a tropical twist.
– Simple syrup: Swap with agave nectar or honey (use slightly less since they’re sweeter).
– Club soda: Sparkling water or tonic water both work if that’s what you have on hand.
FAQs
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Definitely. Mix the vodka, lime juice, and syrup in a pitcher. When serving, pour over ice and top each glass with club soda.
Is it good all year round?
Yes! In summer, it’s super refreshing. In winter, try garnishing with pomegranate seeds or a cinnamon stick for a seasonal touch.
How do I avoid overpowering mint flavor?
Be gentle when muddling. You just want to release the oils, not shred the leaves.
Can I make it sugar-free?
Absolutely. Use a sugar-free sweetener and keep the rest the same.
What’s the best glass to use?
A highball glass is ideal-it gives the drink room to fizz and lets the garnish shine. A mason jar works great too, especially for casual get-togethers.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio. It’s crisp, quick to make, and always a hit with guests. Whether you’re mixing one up for yourself or making a batch for friends, the Xtc is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to tweak and hard to forget.
