Summer is the perfect time to enjoy refreshing and fruity cocktails, and we’ve got just the recipe to elevate your next happy hour: the Peach Ring Cocktail.
This delightful drink is inspired by our ongoing experiments with homemade gummy peach rings (recipe coming soon!).
The combination of fresh peach purée, tart lemon juice, smooth vodka, sweet peach schnapps, and vibrant grenadine creates a cocktail that is as visually stunning as it is delicious.
Let’s dive into the details of how to make this perfect summer sipper.
The Inspiration
The idea for the Peach Ring Cocktail came about during our trials with making homemade gummy peach rings.
The sweet and tangy flavors of the gummy candy translated perfectly into a cocktail form.
Imagine sipping on a drink that brings back the nostalgia of those chewy, sugary treats, but with a grown-up twist.
That’s exactly what this cocktail offers—a sweet, tart, and refreshing beverage that’s perfect for a sunny Friday afternoon.
Ingredients
To make one Peach Ring Cocktail, you will need:
- 2 oz fresh peach purée (about half of a large peach)
- 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 1/2 oz vodka
- 1/2 oz peach schnapps
- 1/4-1/2 oz grenadine
A Note on Ingredients
- Fresh Peach Purée: Using fresh peaches gives the cocktail a vibrant and authentic peach flavor. Choose ripe, juicy peaches for the best results.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness of the peaches and grenadine.
- Vodka: A good quality vodka provides the base spirit for the cocktail without overpowering the other flavors.
- Peach Schnapps: This liqueur amplifies the peach flavor, making the cocktail even more aromatic and flavorful.
- Grenadine: Adding grenadine not only imparts a beautiful red layer at the bottom of the glass but also introduces a subtle sweetness and depth to the drink.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Peach Purée
Start by making the fresh peach purée. Here’s how:
- Blend the Peach: Cut a large peach in half, remove the pit, and add the flesh to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
- Optional Straining: For an extra smooth purée, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove any bits of skin or pulp. If you prefer, you can peel the peach before blending to skip this step.
Step 2: Mix the Cocktail
- Combine Ingredients in Shaker: Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice. Add in the fresh peach purée, freshly squeezed lemon juice, vodka, and peach schnapps.
- Shake: Shake well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and chilled.
Step 3: Assemble the Drink
- Strain and Pour: Strain the mixture into a cocktail glass filled with ice.
- Add Grenadine: Carefully pour the grenadine into the glass. Let it settle at the bottom to create a lovely red layer.
- Garnish: For the final touch, garnish your drink with a fresh peach slice and a gummy peach ring.
Step 4: Enjoy!
Raise your glass and toast to the simple pleasures of summer. The Peach Ring Cocktail is sweet, tart, and utterly refreshing—perfect for sipping on a warm day.
Tips for the Perfect Peach Ring Cocktail
- Choosing Peaches: Opt for ripe peaches with a bit of give when you press them gently. They should smell fragrant and sweet.
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you find the cocktail too sweet, reduce the amount of grenadine or add a splash more lemon juice.
- Chilling Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients are well-chilled before mixing to keep your cocktail refreshingly cold.
Serving Suggestions
The Peach Ring Cocktail pairs beautifully with light appetizers like cheese boards, fresh salads, or grilled shrimp. It’s also a fantastic addition to a summer brunch or a laid-back evening with friends.
Conclusion
The Peach Ring Cocktail is a delightful blend of fresh, fruity flavors and nostalgic sweetness. Its vibrant color and refreshing taste make it an ideal choice for any summer gathering. So next time you’re in the mood for a sweet and tangy treat, shake up a Peach Ring Cocktail and enjoy a taste of summer in every sip. Cheers! 🥂
Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a casual cocktail enthusiast, this Peach Ring Cocktail is easy to make and sure to impress.
Keep an eye out for our upcoming homemade gummy peach rings recipe to complete the experience.
Enjoy!