Paul Kushner
The Strawberry Lemon Crush is a bright and refreshing cocktail that perfectly balances citrus and berry flavors. Citrus vodka provides a zesty kick, while strawberry puree and Truly Strawberry Lemonade add a naturally sweet and fruity depth. Fresh lemon juice enhances the crispness, and sliced strawberries offer a visually appealing touch.
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Light and easy to sip, this cocktail is a great choice for warm afternoons, casual gatherings, or a laid-back evening. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant drink to enjoy in the sun or a simple yet flavorful cocktail, this recipe is a must-try for a delightful refreshment.
Tasting Notes
The Strawberry Lemon Crush is a bright, refreshing cocktail bursting with fruity flavors and a citrusy zing. Fresh strawberry purée and sliced strawberries provide natural sweetness and a vibrant red hue, while freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a tart, tangy contrast. Citrus vodka enhances the zesty notes, blending seamlessly with the strawberry lemonade for a smooth, balanced drink. Served over ice, this cocktail is both crisp and invigorating, making it a perfect sip for warm days. Garnished with lemon slices and a fresh strawberry, it delivers an eye-catching presentation and a deliciously juicy finish.
Equipment and Glassware
To prepare this refreshing cocktail, you’ll need a cocktail shaker for blending and chilling the ingredients efficiently. A muddler helps extract the full flavor from the fresh strawberries, while a strainer ensures a smooth pour, free from pulp or seeds. A citrus juicer or reamer is useful for extracting fresh lemon juice, enhancing the drink’s brightness. Serve this cocktail in a highball or Collins glass, allowing enough room for ice and the lemonade topper. A cocktail pick or tongs will help place the garnishes for an elegant and polished look.
Ingredients
- 1/2 oz strawberry puree
- 2 sliced strawberries
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 2 oz citrus vodka
- Strawberry Lemonade, to top
- Strawberry slice and lemon slices (for garnish)
Instructions
- Build the Base: In a cocktail shaker, combine strawberry purée, sliced strawberries, fresh lemon juice, and citrus vodka.
- Muddle: Gently muddle the ingredients to release the flavor from the strawberries.
- Shake: Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain and Serve: Strain into a mason jar or highball glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top Off: Pour in strawberry lemonade until the glass is full.
- Garnish: Add lemon slices and a whole strawberry to the rim for a festive finish.
Pro Tips
- For the best flavor, use ripe, fresh strawberries and freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of bottled options.
- If you prefer a slightly stronger drink, add a splash of triple sec or limoncello to enhance the citrus notes.
- Adjust the sweetness by choosing a homemade strawberry lemonade or a premium store-bought version with natural ingredients.
- To elevate the presentation, rim the glass with sugar or garnish with a sprig of mint for a refreshing aroma.
- For an extra fizzy twist, substitute half of the lemonade with sparkling water or club soda.
When to Serve
The Strawberry Lemon Crush is the ultimate warm-weather cocktail, perfect for summer parties, poolside lounging, and outdoor brunches. Its bright and refreshing flavor profile makes it ideal for picnics, barbecues, and garden gatherings. It’s also a great choice for casual happy hours or as a signature drink for a bridal shower or baby shower. Whether you’re serving it at a festive event or simply enjoying a refreshing sip on a sunny afternoon, this cocktail is sure to impress with its vibrant taste and stunning presentation.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
For the best results, opt for a smooth citrus vodka like Absolut Citron, Ketel One Citroen, or Deep Eddy Lemon Vodka. If using a store-bought strawberry purée, brands like Monin or Torani offer high-quality options, but homemade is always best. When selecting strawberry lemonade, look for one with natural ingredients, such as Simply Lemonade with Strawberry or Newman’s Own. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will enhance the drink’s natural flavors and create a well-balanced, refreshing cocktail.
Similar Cocktails
- Strawberry Lemon Drop Cocktail
- Electric Lemonade
- John Daly
- Apricot Vodka Lemonade
- Kiwi Vodka Lemonade
Ingredients
- 1/2 oz strawberry puree
- 2 sliced strawberries
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 2 oz citrus vodka
- Strawberry Lemonade to top
- Strawberry slice and lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Build the Base: In a cocktail shaker, combine strawberry purée, sliced strawberries, fresh lemon juice, and citrus vodka.
- Muddle: Gently muddle the ingredients to release the flavor from the strawberries.
- Shake: Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain and Serve: Strain into a mason jar or highball glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top Off: Pour in strawberry lemonade until the glass is full.
- Garnish: Add lemon slices and a whole strawberry to the rim for a festive finish.
Notes
Pro Tips
- For a stronger citrus punch, use lemon vodka or add a splash of orange liqueur.
- Use fresh strawberry purée for a more vibrant flavor and color.
- Chill your glass in advance to keep the drink crisp longer.
