Cantaloupe Spritz Cocktail Recipe
This refreshing cocktail combines the sweet flavor of ripe cantaloupe with bubbles for a perfect summer drink.
The recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal preparation time.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Muddler or wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Melon baller (optional)
- Highball glasses or wine glasses
- Measuring jigger (1-2 oz)
- Bar spoon: for stirring.
Ingredients
For 2 servings:
- 1 cup fresh cantaloupe chunks about ¼ of a medium cantaloupe
- 4 oz vodka or white rum
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 oz simple syrup
- Prosecco or sparkling wine about 4-6 oz
- Ice cubes
- Mint sprigs and cantaloupe balls for garnish
- Choose a ripe sweet cantaloupe for the best flavor. The fruit should smell fragrant and have a slight give when pressed.
- Fresh lime juice works much better than bottled versions.
Instructions
- Prepare the cantaloupe: Cut the melon in half, remove seeds, and cut into 1-inch chunks.
- Muddle the fruit: Place cantaloupe chunks in the cocktail shaker and muddle thoroughly until the fruit is broken down and juicy.
- Add the mixers: Pour in vodka (or rum), lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Add ice to the shaker.
- Shake well: Close the shaker and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until well chilled.
- Top with bubbles: Add prosecco or sparkling wine to fill each glass.
- Stir gently with a bar spoon.
- Garnish: Add a sprig of mint and a small cantaloupe ball on a cocktail pick.
Notes
This cocktail can be adapted for non-alcoholic versions by substituting the alcohol with sparkling water or lemonade.
For a sweeter drink, add more simple syrup or use a sweeter sparkling wine.
The cantaloupe mixture (before adding prosecco) can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and kept refrigerated.
Just shake with ice and strain before serving.
For summer parties, consider making a large batch of the base mixture and letting guests add their own prosecco.