Sometimes I just want a drink that feels a bit special but doesn’t take forever to make at home. The Orange Cardamom Spritz is one of those—refreshing, a touch sweet, and there’s this gentle cardamom spice that sneaks up in the best way.
This post is all about how I put together an Orange Cardamom Spritz using pretty simple steps and ingredients. The bubbles and that bright orange flavor? Honestly, perfect for winding down or, if you’re feeling social, sharing with friends.
If you’re after something flavorful with a twist, I think you’ll probably like this one as much as I do. Or at least, I hope so.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker: I use this to mix and chill everything together.
- Fine mesh strainer: This keeps out cardamom pods and pulp, which is always a win.
- Measuring jigger: Helps me get the right amount of each ingredient.
- Muddler: For smashing up orange slices and cardamom pods.
- Bar spoon: I use it at the end to stir in the prosecco gently.
- Highball or spritz glass: Tall glass just looks better with all those bubbles.
- Citrus juicer (optional): Makes squeezing oranges way easier.
- Ice: Gotta have plenty to keep it cold.
Ingredients
- 2 oz fresh orange juice: I always juice my own oranges—store-bought just doesn’t compare.
- 1 oz simple syrup: Sweetens things up and balances the citrus.
- 1 oz club soda: Adds that fizzy lift.
- 2 oz prosecco or sparkling wine: For bubbles and a crisp finish.
- 2-3 green cardamom pods: I crush these just enough to release the flavor.
- 1 orange slice: Good for muddling or just as a garnish.
- Ice cubes: Enough to fill your glass.
- Optional: Extra orange peel or wheel if you want to get fancy with the garnish.
Instructions
- Drop the orange slice and cardamom pods into your shaker.
- Muddle them gently—just enough to get the oils and juice out.
- Add the orange juice and simple syrup.
- Fill with ice, then shake it up for about 15 seconds.
- Double strain into a highball or spritz glass packed with fresh ice.
- Pour in the club soda and prosecco slowly. I use a bar spoon to mix it in without killing the bubbles.
- Garnish with an orange wheel or peel if you like.
- Serve right away—best when it’s icy cold and bubbly.
Notes
Must Have Ingredients
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 | Stainless Steel Bar Tool For Making Garnish for Cocktails & Mocktails | Buy On Amazon |
Tasting Notes
The first thing I notice with this spritz is how the orange flavor just pops—zesty, fresh, almost like peeling an orange right under your nose. There’s a light sweetness, not too much, and it’s just kind of lively.
Then the cardamom sneaks in. It’s this gentle warmth, a little spicy but nothing too bold. Honestly, it just makes the whole thing feel a bit more interesting.
Texture:
- Effervescent from the sparkling water
- Smooth, not heavy
Flavor Profile:
- Citrus: Orange, mild sweetness
- Spice: Subtle cardamom, hints of warmth
- Herbal: Light, fresh notes
The finish is clean, which I love. Aftertaste? Still orange zest and cardamom, and it lingers just enough to make you want another sip.
It’s refreshing and not too strong, honestly. The flavors play nicely together—nothing overshadows anything else, which is kind of rare in a spritz.
Substitute
When I make an Orange Cardamom Spritz, I sometimes run out of things. Here’s what I usually swap in when that happens:
- Orange Juice:
If I’m out of fresh orange juice, tangerine or clementine juice steps in. They both have that sweet, citrusy vibe—close enough for me. - Cardamom:
No ground cardamom? I’ll grab a pinch of allspice or maybe a dash of cinnamon. It’s not the same, but it does the trick with a different twist. - Sparkling Water:
Club soda, tonic water, or really any sparkling water will do. Occasionally, I’ll reach for a lemon-lime soda if I’m craving something sweeter. - Prosecco:
If Prosecco’s missing, Cava or any dry sparkling white wine fills the gap. Sometimes I just go with sparkling grape juice for a booze-free version.
Instructions:
- I try to pick a substitute that’s as close as possible in flavor.
- I keep the measurements the same as in the original recipe.
- Tasting as I go is key—sometimes I’ll need to tweak things a bit.
After swapping, I always give it a quick taste to check the sweetness and strength. If the flavor’s off, I just adjust something else until it feels right.
