Name: Raspberry Limoncello Spritz
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh raspberries; 4 oz limoncello; 2 cups sparkling water (chilled); 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; ice ice cubes (for serving); mint leaves fresh mint (for garnish)

Imagine sipping on a Raspberry Limoncello Spritz, where the sweet-tart burst of fresh raspberries dances on your palate, kissed by the zesty brightness of limoncello. This cocktail is not just a drink; it’s an experience that tickles your senses and transports you to sun-soaked terraces, capturing the essence of summer in every bubbly sip.

I can still remember my first encounter with this vibrant concoction at a rooftop party, where laughter mingled with the clinking of glasses as the sun dipped below the horizon. Each sip was a delightful surprise, perfect for celebrations or lazy afternoons, making it an unforgettable part of my summer memories. Get ready to indulge in the amazing flavor experience that awaits with this refreshing cocktail!

Why Is Raspberry Limoncello Spritz So Irresistibly Good?

Vibrant raspberries infuse this cocktail with a burst of natural sweetness, making every sip a delight. Zesty limoncello adds a refreshing tartness that perfectly complements the berries. Sparkling water brings a bubbly effervescence, transforming it into a festive drink for any occasion. Easy to prepare, you’ll whip this up in just 10 minutes! Plus, garnishing with fresh mint elevates the presentation and aroma, ensuring your guests will be coming back for more.

Raspberry Limoncello Spritz Ingredients

1 cup fresh raspberries – These vibrant berries bring a natural sweetness and beautiful color to your cocktail.
4 oz limoncello – This Italian lemon liqueur adds a refreshing zing that perfectly complements the raspberries.
2 cups sparkling water (chilled) – The bubbly finish of sparkling water makes this drink incredibly refreshing and light.
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and enhances the citrusy notes.
ice cubes (for serving) – Use plenty of ice to keep your Raspberry Limoncello Spritz perfectly chilled and enjoyable.
fresh mint (for garnish) – A few mint leaves on top add an aromatic touch and a pop of color for presentation.

How to Make Raspberry Limoncello Spritz

1. Muddle the fresh raspberries: In a cocktail shaker, combine 1 cup of fresh raspberries with 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Gently muddle until well crushed, releasing those vibrant flavors.

2. Combine the limoncello and ice: Add 4 oz of limoncello and a handful of ice cubes to the shaker. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds, ensuring everything is mixed beautifully and chilled.

3. Strain into a glass: Using a fine strainer, pour the mixture into a glass filled with ice. This will keep your drink refreshingly cool while maintaining that gorgeous raspberry hue.

4. Top with sparkling water: Pour in 2 cups of chilled sparkling water, allowing the bubbles to dance through the mixture. Gently stir to combine without losing that delightful fizz.

5. Garnish your spritz: Finish off your Raspberry Limoncello Spritz by adding fresh mint leaves and a few whole raspberries on top for an extra burst of color and flavor.

Optional: For an extra touch, add a slice of lemon on the rim of the glass.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Pro Tips for Raspberry Limoncello Spritz

Fresh Raspberries: Use ripe, juicy raspberries for the best flavor and sweetness. Avoid mushy or overly soft berries to enhance your cocktail's taste.

Chill Sparkling Water: Always use chilled sparkling water to maintain the bubbly freshness of your Raspberry Limoncello Spritz. Warm water can dilute the drink too quickly.

Muddling Technique: Gently muddle the raspberries with lemon juice; over-muddling can lead to bitterness. Aim for a balance of crushed fruit without turning it into puree.

Limoncello Quality: Choose a high-quality limoncello for a more vibrant and zesty flavor. Cheaper options may lack the bright citrus notes that elevate this cocktail.

Ice Matters: Fill your glass with plenty of ice before pouring in the mixture to keep your drink cold and refreshing. This prevents dilution from melting ice as you sip.

Mint Garnish: Fresh mint leaves not only add a lovely aroma but also enhance visual appeal. Bruise them slightly before adding to release their essential oils.

How to Store and Freeze Raspberry Limoncello Spritz

Fridge: Store any leftover Raspberry Limoncello Spritz in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The bubbles may fade, but the flavor will remain delightful!

Fresh Raspberries: Keep fresh raspberries in a breathable container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Avoid washing until ready to use to maintain their freshness.

Mint Leaves: Store mint leaves wrapped in a damp paper towel inside a plastic bag in the fridge. They can stay fresh for about 1 week.

Limoncello: Unopened limoncello can be stored at room temperature; once opened, keep it in the fridge for optimal flavor, lasting several months.

Raspberry Limoncello Spritz Your Way

Feel free to get creative and customize this delightful drink with these fun variations!

Berry Medley: Substitute raspberries with a mix of blackberries and blueberries for a vibrant twist. This colorful blend will add depth and new flavors, making each sip feel like a refreshing summer day.

Herbal Infusion: Add a few basil leaves along with the mint for an aromatic twist. The herbal notes will elevate your cocktail, creating a unique and fragrant experience that pairs beautifully with the citrusy limoncello.

Sparkling Citrus: Use lemon-lime soda instead of sparkling water for extra sweetness. This change adds a playful fizz while enhancing the citrus flavor, perfect for those who love a sweeter cocktail.

Frozen Treat: Blend the ingredients with ice instead of serving over ice for a slushy version. This icy delight is perfect for hot days, giving you a refreshing treat that’s both fun and delicious.

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a slice of jalapeño to spice things up. The heat complements the sweetness of the raspberries, creating a surprising and exciting flavor profile.

Ginger Zest: Incorporate ginger ale in place of sparkling water for a lively zing. The gentle spiciness from ginger adds warmth to your drink, perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings.

Citrus Burst: Increase lemon juice to 2 tablespoons for an extra tangy kick. This adjustment will brighten the cocktail even more, making it an invigorating choice for lemon lovers!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Raspberry Limoncello Spritz in advance is a fantastic way to save time and impress your guests with minimal effort! You can muddle the fresh raspberries with lemon juice and combine them with limoncello up to 24 hours ahead of time—just be sure to store the mixture in an airtight container in the fridge. The sparkling water should remain chilled until you are ready to serve, as adding it too early will result in a loss of fizz. When it's time to enjoy, simply strain your prepped mixture into a glass filled with ice, top with the chilled sparkling water, and garnish with fresh mint leaves and a few whole raspberries for that vibrant finish. This makes your Raspberry Limoncello Spritz not only refreshing but also a breeze to prepare!

Raspberry Limoncello Spritz Recipe FAQs

What type of raspberries should I use for the Raspberry Limoncello Spritz?

Using fresh raspberries is key for this cocktail! Look for plump, vibrant berries that are deep red in color. If you can’t find fresh ones or they're out of season, you can substitute with frozen raspberries, but be sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to avoid diluting your drink.

How can I make my Raspberry Limoncello Spritz less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet cocktail, consider using a lower-sugar limoncello or adding more sparkling water. You might also reduce the amount of limoncello to 3 oz and increase the lemon juice slightly for a zesty kick. Experimenting with these adjustments will help you find the perfect balance that suits your taste.

Can I prepare this cocktail in advance?

While it's best to enjoy the Raspberry Limoncello Spritz fresh, you can prepare the raspberry and lemon juice mixture ahead of time. Simply muddle the raspberries with lemon juice and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours. When you're ready to serve, shake it with limoncello and ice, then add sparkling water for that bubbly finish.

How many servings does this recipe yield?

This recipe yields 4 refreshing servings of Raspberry Limoncello Spritz, making it perfect for sharing during summer gatherings or brunches. Each serving is around 150 calories, so you can sip guilt-free while enjoying those sunny moments!

What are some garnish alternatives for this cocktail?

While fresh mint leaves and whole raspberries make beautiful garnishes, you could also use thin lemon slices or even edible flowers to elevate the presentation. A sprig of basil could add an intriguing twist as well! Just remember, a pretty garnish makes every sip feel special.

Can I freeze leftover Raspberry Limoncello Spritz?

Freezing the finished cocktail isn’t recommended because sparkling water loses its fizz once frozen. However, if you have leftover muddled raspberry mixture without ice or sparkling water, you can freeze that in an ice cube tray. Later, pop them into future cocktails for a burst of flavor!