The Prickly Pear Vodka Sour is a vibrant and refreshing cocktail that combines the sweetness of prickly pear syrup with the tartness of lemon juice and the smoothness of vodka. The striking pink hue makes this drink a showstopper at any gathering, while the balance of sweet and sour flavors ensures it’s as delicious as it looks. Perfect for a summer evening or any time you want to impress your guests with something a little different.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz prickly pear syrup
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- ½ oz simple syrup
- Ice
- Lemon wheel and prickly pear slice for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Mix the Drink:
In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, prickly pear syrup, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup. Add ice and shake well for about 15 seconds until chilled. - Serve:
Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice. - Garnish:
Garnish with a lemon wheel and a slice of prickly pear for a colorful touch. Enjoy your beautifully vibrant Prickly Pear Vodka Sour!
Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 1 cocktail
Variations
- If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the amount of simple syrup or omit it altogether.
- For a different flavor profile, substitute the vodka with gin for a botanical twist.
- Add a splash of club soda for a fizzy version of the cocktail.
FAQs
Where can I find prickly pear syrup?
You can find prickly pear syrup at specialty stores or online, or make your own by simmering prickly pear juice with sugar.
Can I use lime instead of lemon?
Yes! Lime juice will add a sharper, more acidic kick, which pairs well with the sweetness of the prickly pear syrup.
Can I batch this for a party?
Absolutely! Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need and shake in batches or serve in a large pitcher, adding ice just before serving.
Prickly Pear Vodka Sour
- Prep Time: 5
- Total Time: 5
- Category: Cocktails
- Method: Shaken
- Cuisine: Modern
Description
The Prickly Pear Vodka Sour is a vibrant and refreshing twist on the classic vodka sour. The prickly pear syrup adds a stunning pink hue and a unique, mildly sweet flavor with a hint of tartness, complementing the tang of lemon juice and the smoothness of vodka. This cocktail is perfect for those looking for a visually striking and deliciously balanced drink.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1 oz prickly pear syrup
- ½ oz simple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
- Ice cubes
- Club soda (optional, for a bubbly finish)
- Lemon wheel or wedge
- Prickly pear slice (optional)
Instructions
- Mix the Cocktail:
In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, fresh lemon juice, prickly pear syrup, and simple syrup (if using). Add ice and shake well for about 15 seconds. - Strain and Serve:
Strain the mixture into an ice-filled rocks glass. For a bubbly version, top with a splash of club soda. - Garnish:
Garnish with a lemon wheel or wedge and a slice of prickly pear, if available.
Notes
- Prickly pear syrup can be found in specialty stores or online, or you can make your own by blending the pulp of prickly pears with sugar and water.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less simple syrup, depending on your taste.
- For an egg-white variation, add an egg white to the shaker and shake without ice first (dry shake) before adding ice for a frothy finish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 drink
- Calories: 200 (varies depending on syrup and vodka)
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 5mg