Strawberry Vodka Shots Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it combines the fresh, sweet flavor of strawberries with a kick of vodka, creating a refreshing cocktail that’s perfect for brunch or a chill evening with friends. Plus, it’s super easy to make, and garnishing with a strawberry slice adds that Instagram-worthy touch!

I enjoy taking fresh strawberries and pairing them with a splash of vodka for a tasty twist on classic shots. My version stars 1 cup of hulled and sliced strawberries, blended with vodka, simple syrup, and fresh lemon juice.

The drink is served ice-cold, over the rocks, and garnished with whole and half strawberries. The result?

A deceptively strong, very pretty drink that recalls summer afternoons.

Ingredients

Fresh Strawberries:
Packed with vitamin C and antioxidants; impart natural sweetness.

Vodka:
Presents alcoholic strength; transparent and adaptable liquor.

Simple Syrup:
Improves the blend, intensifying strawberry flavor.

Lemon Juice:
Contributes tartness and lightness; counterbalances sugary notes.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
• 1 cup vodka
• 1/4 cup simple syrup
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Ice cubes
• Strawberry slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Combine the fresh strawberries and vodka in a blender, blending until smooth.

2. Sieve the strawberry mix through a fine mesh to obtain a clear liquid in a bowl or pitcher.

3. Combine strained liquid with fresh lemon juice and simple syrup. Stir well.

4. Cool the combination in the fridge for a minimum of 30 minutes so that the tastes can coalesce.

5. Fill shot glasses with ice cubes to prepare them.

6. Chilled and flavored with vodka, strawberries make a delightful cocktail. Prepare the following:

1. Place ice in each shot glass.

2. Pour over the ice a mixture of chilled strawberry vodka.

7. Gently stir each shot to mix evenly.

8. If you would like to, you can add a bit of flair to each shot by garnishing it with a strawberry slice on the lip of the glass. It makes a nice presentation and complements the drink quite well.

9. Enjoy your sparkling strawberry vodka shots as soon as they are served. They are refreshing and delightful.

10. Refrigerate any mixture you have left over for up to 3 days. Before serving it up again, be sure to give it a stir.

Equipment Needed

1. Blender
2. Fine mesh sieve or strainer
3. Bowl or pitcher
4. Measuring cups and spoons
5. Spoon or stirring utensil
6. Refrigerator
7. Shot glasses
8. Knife (for garnishing strawberries)
9. Cutting board

FAQ

• What type of vodka should I use?Any good-quality vodka that you prefer can be used. It’s best to use a plain vodka, which allows the flavor of the strawberries to be at its most prominent.
• How do I make simple syrup?Simple syrup is made by combining equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan and heating it until the sugar is dissolved. The mixture is then cooled.
• Can I use frozen strawberries?Certainly! If fresh strawberries happen to be unavailable, you can absolutely use frozen ones. Just ensure they are thawed beforehand.
• Is there a non-alcoholic version of this drink?You can replace vodka with soda water or a non-alcoholic spirit to savor a mocktail version.
• How long should I let the strawberries infuse in the vodka?To achieve optimum results, allow the strawberries to permeate the vodka for a minimum of one hour; however, leaving them to soak overnight will magnify the flavor exponentially.
• Can I add more lemon juice?Indeed, if you like your flavor profile to be more on the tart side, you can certainly increase the amount of lemon juice.
• How should I serve these shots?Chill the shots, and if you want to garnish them, add a slice of strawberry to the rim.

Substitutions and Variations

Use frozen strawberries instead of fresh strawberries.
Replace vodka with rum or gin to create different flavor profiles.
Instead of using simple syrup, use honey or agave syrup. Substitute these natural sweeteners when you use their synthetic counterpart.
Substitute lime juice for lemon juice for a slight variation.
Use mint leaves to garnish, rather than strawberry slices, to add a fresh touch.

Pro Tips

1. For maximum flavor infusion, let the strawberries and vodka mixture sit for an extra 30 minutes before straining. This allows the strawberries to impart more of their essence into the vodka.

2. Use a muddler to gently mash the strawberries before blending. This can help release more juice and flavor from the strawberries, resulting in a more vibrant drink.

3. For an added twist, consider adding a few mint leaves or a dash of balsamic vinegar to the blender with the strawberries and vodka. Both options can enhance the depth of flavor in the cocktail.

4. Chill your serving glasses in the freezer for about 15 minutes before serving the shots. This ensures they stay cold for longer and adds a refreshing touch.

5. Experiment with different types of vodka, such as flavored vodka, to add more complexity to your cocktail. A citrus or berry-flavored vodka can complement the fresh strawberries beautifully.