Savor Summer with a Delicious Watermelon Champagne Cocktail
If you’re looking for a refreshing and fun cocktail to serve at your next summer gathering, you can’t go wrong with a watermelon champagne cocktail. This drink is the perfect combination of sweet and bubbly, making it perfect for sipping on a hot summer day.
Watermelon is the star of this cocktail – it’s juicy, refreshing, and pairs perfectly with bubbly champagne. The addition of fresh lime juice, triple sec, and vanilla vodka gives it a little extra kick, while mint leaves add a touch of freshness.
One of the best things about this watermelon champagne cocktail recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. Plus, it’s easily customizable – if you prefer your drinks more or less sweet, you can adjust the amount of triple sec accordingly.
So why not give this watermelon champagne cocktail a try at your next gathering? Your guests are sure to love sipping on this delicious and refreshing drink while soaking up some sunshine.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you a fan of refreshing and fruity cocktails? Then this Watermelon Champagne Cocktail recipe is just what you need!
First of all, it’s made with fresh watermelon juice, which has a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the dryness of the champagne. The addition of fresh lime juice and mint leaves adds complexity to the cocktail, bringing in zesty and herbaceous notes that balance out the sweetness.
With its vibrant pink hue, this cocktail is visually stunning and will be sure to impress your guests at any gathering. It’s perfect for summer BBQs, garden parties or as a fun twist on a brunch mimosa.
Another great feature of this recipe is its flexibility when it comes to alcohol choice. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, simply replace champagne with sparkling water or juice. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out vanilla vodka for tequila or infused cranberry juice for triple sec. The possibilities are endless!
Lastly, it’s an easy recipe to make – all you need is a blender to puree the watermelon cubes and mix in the ingredients. You can also make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge until ready to serve.
So why not take advantage of peak watermelon season and give this Watermelon Champagne Cocktail a try? You won’t regret it!
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you will need to make this refreshing watermelon champagne cocktail:
For the Vanilla-Infused Vodka:
- 2 cups seedless watermelon cubes
- 1 cup Absolut Vanilla chilled vodka
- 1/8 cup fresh lime juice
- Fresh mint leaves, crushed
For the Cocktail:
- 4 cups seedless watermelon cubes (1-inch cubes)
- 1/4 cup triple sec
- 2 cups chilled vanilla-infused vodka (see recipe above)
- Sparkling wine or Champagne, for topping
- Mint leaves, for garnish
- Lime slices, for garnish
Optional substitutions and variations:
- Replace vanilla vodka with regular vodka or tequila.
- Swap triple sec with Grand Marnier, Cointreau, or any other rich, fruity liqueur.
- Add a splash of cranberry juice or watermelon juice to the mix for added flavor.
- Use sparkling water instead of champagne for a lighter version.
Make sure all ingredients are prepared and chilled beforehand to ensure a refreshing watermelon champagne cocktail experience.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have discussed the ingredients, let’s move on to how to make this Watermelon Champagne Cocktail.
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
As a first step, gather all your ingredients and make sure they are prepped. Dice the watermelon into small cubes and set aside a few pieces for garnishing. For fresh lime juice, roll the lime on the counter with your palm to release the juice easily. Pick some fresh mint leaves, rinse them in cold water, and let them dry for a while.
Step 2: Blend Watermelon
Take a blender and add 2 cups of seedless watermelon cubes to it. Blend it until smooth.
Step 3: Combine All The Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl or pitcher, stir together the blended watermelon, 1/2 cup of vanilla-infused vodka, 1/3 cup of fresh lime juice, and 1/4 cup of Triple Sec until well-combined.
Step 4: Add Spakling Wine
Gently pour in 750 ml bottle of sparkling wine into the pitcher or bowls mix, and give it a stir with a ladle gently. Don’t worry; it may foam up initially – this is natural!
Step 5: Assemble The Drinks
Fill each glass with ice and pour the cocktail mixture over half of the glass. Top it off with champagne watermelon up to around 2/3 of the glass, then fill up remaining space with sparkling wine (usually about 1/3rd). Garnish with fresh mint leaves and spear watermelon cubes onto a toothpick as a final touch.
Now sip your Watermelon Champagne Cocktails slowly, and enjoy!
Substitutions and Variations
Are you in the mood for a little experimentation? Then let’s discuss some substitutions and variations you can try with this watermelon champagne cocktail recipe.
Firstly, if you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, you can easily skip the champagne and substitute it with sparkling water, or even cranberry juice or wine for an extra fruity kick. For those preferring a different type of alcohol, try using tequila instead of vodka, or switch up the triple sec with Grand Marnier for a rich, fruity flavor.
If you want to get creative with the garnish, try topping off your champagne watermelon cocktail with fresh cranberries or a popsicle made from watermelon juice. You could also use different fruit juices such as pineapple or mango to give it a tropical flair.
For those who don’t particularly care for mint, swap it out with basil or rosemary to add a unique twist on this watermelon mint champagne. Additionally, if you prefer less sweet beverages, reduce the quantity of vanilla vodka used in the recipe.
Lastly, if you have leftover seedless watermelon cubes after making this cocktail, consider adding them to your morning smoothie for an extra refreshing start to your day.
Remember always to consider what flavors best appeal to your taste buds and don’t shy away from trying something new. Heavenly sipping awaits!
Serving and Pairing
This watermelon champagne cocktail is the perfect addition to any summer gathering. It’s light, refreshing, and pairs well with a variety of dishes.
To create the ultimate summer feast, try pairing this cocktail with some grilled seafood, such as shrimp or lobster. A light salad with a citrus vinaigrette would complement the flavors of the cocktail nicely. For something heartier, consider serving it alongside a grilled chicken skewer or a fruit and cheese platter.
To make your presentation even more impressive, garnish your drinks with a slice of lime and fresh mint leaves. Alternatively, you can top each glass with a piece of watermelon for a fun twist.
For those looking for a non-alcoholic version of this drink, simply omit the champagne and replace it with sparkling watermelon juice or cranberry juice.
Whether you’re sipping on this cocktail poolside or hosting an outdoor dinner party, your guests are sure to appreciate this deliciously refreshing beverage.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
This watermelon champagne cocktail recipe is perfect for entertaining guests since you can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge until needed. Before serving, add the champagne or sparkling wine to your pitcher, mix gently and pour into ice-filled glasses.
If you’re making this cocktail for a big group, you could also consider freezing some of it in ice cube trays to create watermelon popsicles. These are not only delicious but also make for a fun, refreshing twist on the classic cocktail.
Storing this cocktail is easy, simply refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to three days. However, the longer it sits, the less fizzy your cocktail will be. If you do end up with leftovers, don’t throw them away- instead pour any excess into ice pop molds and freeze them for a great warm weather treat!
When reheating your leftover cocktail, be careful not to overheat it as this could cause the carbonation in the champagne or sparkling wine to disappear. Instead, just gently warm it up over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
This recipe lends itself well to customization – so play around with different types of wine such as Prosecco or even cranberry juice or your favorite tequila. Whatever you decide, this flavorful watermelon cocktail is sure to impress!
Tips for Perfect Results
To make the perfect watermelon champagne cocktail, few tips can drastically enhance its flavors and presentation. Here are some tips to help you make the perfect watermelon champagne cocktail.
First, ensure that you use fresh ingredients, especially the watermelon. The watermelon should be ripe as it would produce a more flavorful juice. You can also add a teaspoon of sugar to sweeten the drink if the watermelon is not sweet enough.
Secondly, if you want to make an alcohol-free version of the cocktail for children or non-alcohol drinkers, you can substitute champagne or any other alcoholic drink with sparkling water or cranberry juice. You can also add some ice cubes to make it more refreshing.
Thirdly, ensure that all your ingredients are properly chilled before mixing them together. This helps retain their flavors and makes the drink more refreshing when served.
Fourthly, when blending your watermelon cubes, blend them in batches instead of blending it all at once. Blending in batches ensures that the mixture is uniformly smooth and without lumps.
Fifthly, garnish your drink with a lime slice and a sprig of fresh mint leaves. The lime adds a tangy flavor to the drink while the fresh mint leaves add a refreshing aroma that compliments well with the taste of the watermelon.
Finally, always serve your watermelon champagne cocktail in chilled champagne flutes or glasses. The ideal ratio of the drink is two cups of seedless watermelon cubes, one cup of vanilla infused vodka, 1/2 cup triple sec, 1/3 cup fresh lime juice, topped with champagne or sparkling wine. This recipe serves 4-6 glasses per serving.
By following these tips, you are sure to create a beautiful and delicious watermelon champagne cocktail that will leave everyone asking for more!
FAQ
Before wrapping up this Watermelon Champagne Cocktail Recipe article, let’s get to the frequently asked questions that you might have in mind. These questions will help you understand the recipe even better and ensure that you have everything you need to create a perfect and refreshing drink for your next party. So, without further ado, let’s address the most common queries about the recipe!
What alcohol goes best with watermelon?
When the sun is blazing down on us, there’s nothing better than a chilled watermelon rum cocktail mixed with refreshing lime. The juicy and succulent watermelon serves as a naturally sweet and thirst-quenching foundation for the smooth rum, while adding fresh lime juice brings in a deliciously tangy twist. Whip this delightful drink up in no time and enjoy the perfect summer sip!
What is the watermelon wedding drink called?
If you’re a fan of piña coladas, then you must try this watermelon-themed cocktail that would be perfect for serving at a wedding reception.
What is the best alcohol to mix with Champagne?
As a sommelier, I am well-versed in different types of liqueurs and spirits. Some of my personal favorites include Chambord Liqueur, Grand Marnier Cuvée du Centenaire, and Hayman’s Sloe Gin, each with their own unique flavor profiles. I also appreciate the fruity and tart notes found in Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao. For a more indulgent dessert-style option, I recommend the Mathilde Cassis Liqueur or Luxardo Cherry “Sangue Morlacco” Liqueur. And for a delicate floral touch, St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur is a go-to choice.
What alcohol is in a champagne cocktail?
The components of a classic Champagne Cocktail consist of Angostura bitters, sugar, Champagne, Cognac or brandy, and garnished with a Maraschino cherry or lemon twist. It is a revered alcoholic beverage that has earned a spot among the International Bartender Association’s official cocktails.
What is the watermelon alcohol drink called?
As a sommelier, I am well-versed in the world of wine and spirits, but it’s always exciting to explore new territory, such as the refreshing and innovative world of watermelon cocktails. From a sparkling watermelon margarita to a watermelon honey citrus refresher, these drinks offer a unique and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of summer. So if you’re looking for a new drink to add to your repertoire, consider one of these delightful options.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a refreshing and unique cocktail to impress your guests at your next party or event, the Watermelon Champagne Cocktail is an excellent choice. With its mix of sweet and tangy watermelon juice, vanilla-infused vodka, and bubbly champagne, it’s a drink that’s sure to please. Plus, the addition of fresh mint leaves and lime juice give it a nice touch of brightness and complexity.
Not only is this cocktail delicious, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can make substitutions and variations to the recipe to suit your personal taste preferences or mix it up with different alcohols like tequila or wine. And if you’re looking for a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the champagne with sparkling watermelon.
So whether you’re sipping on this cocktail on a hot summer day or serving it at your next gathering, the Watermelon Champagne Cocktail is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So why not try making it yourself today? I guarantee that you won’t regret it!
Watermelon Champagne Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
- 5 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, crushed
- 1/2 cup vanilla vodka, chilled
- 1/4 cup triple sec
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 2/3 cups champagne or 2 2/3 cups sparkling wine, chilled
Garnish
- watermelon, cubed
- lime slice
Instructions
- Process watermelon cubes in a blender on high until smooth then strain.
- Measure out 2 cups juice, add mint, stir then chill 30 minutes.
- Add vodka, triple sec, lime juice and 1 cup ice and stir vigorously.
- Remove mint leaves.
- Fill glasses with ice and pour 1/3 cup watermelon mixture into each.
- Gently stir in 1/3 cup Champagne.
- Garnish with watermelon cubes and lime slices.