I’m always on the lookout for drinks that are easy and super refreshing, and the Sgroppino cocktail? It’s one I keep coming back to at home. This light, Italian cocktail blends lemon sorbet, vodka, and prosecco for a smooth and icy treat.
Sgroppino comes together fast, which is perfect when I just want something simple to hand to friends or family. Its bright, zippy flavor really shines on hot days or when I want a palate cleanser between courses.
If you’re up for trying this classic at home, you really only need a handful of ingredients and a couple of basic tools. The recipe’s straightforward enough that even beginners can pull it off without much fuss.
Sgroppino Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl: I use this to combine the ingredients.
- Measuring jigger or small cup: I measure the vodka and Prosecco for accuracy.
- Ice cream scoop: I use this to portion the lemon sorbet easily.
- Chilled serving glasses (flutes or coupes): These keep the cocktail cold when serving.
- Spoon or spatula: It helps me mix and scrape the sorbet if needed.
Ingredients
- 2 cups lemon sorbet store-bought or homemade
- 1/2 cup chilled Prosecco
- 1 oz vodka
- Lemon zest for garnish
- Fresh mint leaves optional
- Extra lemon slices optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Place the lemon sorbet in the mixing bowl.
- Gently whisk or blend the sorbet until it’s smooth and creamy.
- Add vodka and mix until fully blended.
- Slowly pour in chilled Prosecco while stirring, making sure not to lose the bubbles.
- Pour the mixture into chilled glasses.
- Garnish with lemon zest, mint leaves, or a lemon slice as you like.
- Serve immediately while cold and frothy.
Notes
Tasting Notes
When I take a sip of Sgroppino, the first thing I notice is how light and refreshing it feels. The taste is a mix of tart lemon and just a hint of sweetness, thanks to the lemon sorbet.
The texture is smooth, almost creamy. Prosecco adds these tiny, crisp bubbles that fizz on my tongue, which makes the drink lively.
The flavors blend together without being too strong or sour. There’s a little vodka kick, but honestly, the alcohol just hangs out quietly in the background.
After the first sip, I usually get a burst of lemon, then a clean, cool finish. It’s honestly kind of like lemon ice—so simple, so good.
When I serve this to guests, they often say it feels both fun and a little fancy. The mix of cold sorbet and sparkling Prosecco is something you can enjoy slowly, letting the bubbles and lemon linger just a bit longer with every mouthful.
Substitute
When I don’t have the usual ingredients for Sgroppino, I just use whatever’s on hand. These swaps keep the cocktail light and refreshing, and honestly, it’s nice not to have to run to the store.
Sometimes I run out of lemon sorbet. Lemon gelato or even lime sorbet works almost the same, at least to my tastebuds.
If neither is around, I’ll grab a scoop of plain vanilla ice cream and add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. It’s not perfect, but it gets the job done.
No prosecco? No problem. Other sparkling wines like Champagne or Cava are solid choices.
Sometimes I’ll go for sparkling apple cider if I want a non-alcoholic version, or just because it’s what’s in the fridge.
For vodka, I’ll swap in gin if I’m feeling herbal, or skip it altogether when I want something a little lighter.
Equipment I Use as Substitutes:
- Hand whisk (instead of an electric mixer)
- Large cup or glass (instead of a mixing bowl)
- Spoon (if I don’t have a whisk—improvising is half the fun)
Substitute Ingredients:
- Lemon gelato or lime sorbet for lemon sorbet
- Sparkling wine, Champagne, or sparkling cider for prosecco
- Gin, flavored vodka, or more prosecco for vodka
Instructions for Using Substitutes:
- Whisk the sorbet or gelato until it’s smooth enough (don’t overthink it).
- Add your sparkling drink of choice.
- Stir in vodka or gin, or leave it out if you’re not in the mood for booze.
- Pour into your favorite glass and serve right away. Cheers!
