If you’re looking for a refreshing and vibrant drink that bursts with fruity flavor and a little grown-up kick, this Strawberry Grapefruit Spiked Lemonade Recipe is exactly what you need. It effortlessly combines the tangy brightness of fresh grapefruit and lemon with the sweet essence of strawberries and a splash of vodka, creating a perfect balance that feels both exciting and comforting. Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or hosting friends on a sunny afternoon, this delightful cocktail promises to be your new favorite go-to refreshment.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple, straightforward ingredients that each play an essential role in crafting the perfect sip. From the zing of the strawberry lemonade mix to the fresh tartness of grapefruit juice, every item adds a layer of flavor and texture that makes this cocktail truly irresistible.
- Strawberry lemonade mix: Using a quality mix like Country Time gives that instantly recognizable sweet-tart base to your drink.
- Water: To hydrate and dilute the mix just right, balancing the flavors smoothly.
- Sour mix: Adds that classic cocktail tang, keeping things bright and refreshing.
- Lemon-infused vodka: A flavorful spirit touch that enhances the citrus notes and gives the drink a spirited kick.
- Fresh squeezed grapefruit juice: Brings a fresh, slightly bitter citrus layer that elevates the entire beverage.
- Sliced strawberries: For bursts of natural sweetness and a pop of gorgeous red color.
- Wedge of grapefruit: Perfect as a garnish and an extra whiff of citrus aroma.
- Crushed ice: Essential to keep this lemonade chilled and perfectly refreshing.
How to Make Strawberry Grapefruit Spiked Lemonade Recipe
Step 1: Combine Your Ingredients
Start by adding the strawberry lemonade mix, water, sour mix, lemon-infused vodka, fresh squeezed grapefruit juice, and plenty of crushed ice into a cocktail shaker. This step is where all those fantastic flavors begin to meld together, setting the stage for your delicious drink.
Step 2: Shake It Up
Seal your shaker and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds. This chilling and mixing action ensures the ingredients blend harmoniously and the ice cools everything down quickly, giving you that refreshing chill from the first sip.
Step 3: Strain and Garnish
Pour the mixture through a strainer into a glass filled with crushed ice. Then, add sliced strawberries inside the glass and crown your drink with a vibrant wedge of grapefruit and a few more strawberry slices. This not only looks beautiful but also adds a fresh bite as you enjoy your cocktail.
How to Serve Strawberry Grapefruit Spiked Lemonade Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes play a starring role in both presentation and flavor enhancement. To complement this drink, sliced strawberries and a wedge of grapefruit are perfect. Their natural brightness echoes the flavors inside and makes each glass feel inviting and special.
Side Dishes
This spiked lemonade pairs wonderfully with light, fresh dishes such as grilled chicken salads, shrimp tacos, or even a cheese and charcuterie board. The citrus and berry notes in your drink will cut through savory and rich flavors, creating an ideal balance at your gathering.
Creative Ways to Present
Bring this lemonade to life by serving it in tall, clear glasses to show off its lovely pink hue. Rim the glass with sugar or a little citric salt to add an extra burst of flavor with each sip. You can also freeze some strawberry slices into your ice cubes for a pretty and practical twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover Strawberry Grapefruit Spiked Lemonade Recipe, transfer it to a covered container or bottle and keep it refrigerated for up to 24 hours. This helps preserve the freshness and citrus zing, though it’s best enjoyed fresh for peak flavor.
Freezing
Freezing the cocktail is not recommended since the fresh flavors and alcohol won’t hold up well. However, you could freeze some of the fresh juice components separately to keep on hand for future batches.
Reheating
This is a cold beverage best served chilled, so reheating is not advised. To enjoy it again later, simply give any leftovers a gentle stir and add fresh ice cubes before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe non-alcoholic?
Absolutely! Simply omit the lemon-infused vodka and increase the water or add extra sour mix or sparkling water to maintain the flavor balance. It’s just as refreshing and perfect for all ages.
What’s the best way to get fresh squeezed grapefruit juice?
Buy ripe, fragrant grapefruits and use a manual or electric citrus juicer for the freshest juice. Avoid pre-packaged juice to keep the bright, natural flavor true to the recipe.
Can I substitute regular vodka for lemon-infused vodka?
Yes, regular vodka works fine. To replicate the lemon flavor, you can add a small splash of fresh lemon juice or a twist of lemon peel when shaking your cocktail.
How sweet is this Strawberry Grapefruit Spiked Lemonade Recipe?
The sweetness is perfectly balanced with tart and citrus flavors, thanks to the mix of lemonade, sour mix, and fresh grapefruit juice. You can tweak sweetness by adding more or less strawberry lemonade mix depending on your preference.
What glassware is recommended for serving this lemonade?
Use tall, clear glasses like a Collins glass or highball to showcase the beautiful colors and allow room for ice and garnishes. This style also enhances the drinking experience with plenty of refreshing chill.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Grapefruit Spiked Lemonade Recipe is pure joy in a glass and so easy to make, you’ll wonder why you haven’t discovered it before. It’s bursting with layers of fresh, vibrant flavor and just enough spike to make your moments a little more special. Give it a try next time you want to impress with something light, fruity, and perfectly balanced—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Strawberry Grapefruit Spiked Lemonade Recipe
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Total Time: 4 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
A refreshing and tangy Strawberry Grapefruit Spiked Lemonade that combines the sweet and citrusy flavors of strawberry lemonade mix, fresh grapefruit juice, and lemon-infused vodka. Perfectly served over crushed ice and garnished with fresh sliced strawberries and a grapefruit wedge for a delightful summer cocktail.
Ingredients
Drink Base
- 2 Tablespoons strawberry lemonade mix (such as Country Time)
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 ounce sour mix
- 2 ounces lemon infused vodka
- 2 ounces fresh squeezed grapefruit juice
Garnishes and Ice
- Sliced strawberries
- A wedge of grapefruit
- Crushed ice
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, add the strawberry lemonade mix, water, sour mix, lemon infused vodka, fresh squeezed grapefruit juice, and crushed ice. This combination forms the flavorful base of the spiked lemonade.
- Shake Vigorously: Secure the shaker lid and shake vigorously for 30 seconds. This chills the mixture and helps blend all the ingredients together evenly.
- Strain and Serve: Strain the mix into a glass filled with crushed ice to keep the drink cool without watering it down.
- Garnish: Add sliced strawberries inside the glass and garnish the rim with a wedge of grapefruit and additional sliced strawberries for an appealing presentation and enhanced flavor.
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the vodka and add extra sour mix or lemon juice.
- Fresh grapefruit juice is key to achieve the best vibrant citrus flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of strawberry lemonade mix according to taste.
- Use a fine mesh strainer if you prefer a smoother texture without fruit pulp.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors and chill.
