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It’s the summer of the Hugo Spritz! ♡

We keep spotting this refreshing cocktail on cocktail menus everywhere lately. And it’s easy to see why — light, floral, citrusy, and gently bubbly, it tastes like pure summer in a glass. Originating in the South Tyrol region of northern Italy, I read that the Hugo gained popularity as a lighter, more aromatic alternative to the slightly bitter Aperol or Campari spritzes. I love it because it’s effortlessly elegant, not too sweet, and easy to make with just a few simple ingredients.

Mix up a single serving or batch it in a pitcher (similar to sangria vibes) for easy entertaining. It’s the kind of cocktail that fits right in at patio hangouts, dinner parties, or any moment that deserves a little sparkle. Let’s spritz!

Recipe Tips

When making a Hugo Spritz, here are 5 quick tips to keep in mind:

1. Use chilled ingredients. Start with cold prosecco, club soda, and even chill your glass ahead of time if possible — it keeps the drink crisp and cool without diluting it too quickly.
2. Pick a dry prosecco. Since elderflower liqueur adds sweetness, I recommend a brut or extra dry prosecco to keep the cocktail balanced and refreshing.
3. Go easy on the elderflower. A little St-Germain goes a long way, so if you’re sensitive to floral flavors, I recommend starting with slightly less elderflower liqueur the recipe calls for — you can always add more later.
4. Adjust to taste. That said, all of these ingredients are flexible, so feel free to tinker with the amount of mint, citrus and/or club soda to taste.
5. Have fun with garnishes. Use as many or as few as you like — I always enjoy a few lemon rounds and extra mint!

Hugo Spritz Variations

Here are 5 fun variations you can try to put a fresh spin on the classic Hugo Spritz:

• Berry Hugo: Muddle a few fresh strawberries or raspberries into the glass along with the mint.
• Rosé Hugo: Replace the Prosecco with a sparkling rosé.
• Basil Hugo: Swap the mint for fresh basil leaves (or try a mix with both mint and basil).
• Gin Hugo: Add a splash of gin (0.5 to 1 ounce) for a stronger, botanical vibe.
• Cucumber Hugo: Add a few slices of fresh cucumber.
• Spicy Hugo: Muddle a few slices of fresh jalapeño or serrano peppers with the mint.

Hugo Spritz

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• Author: Ali
• Prep Time: 3 mins
• Cook Time: 0 mins
• Total Time: 3 mins
• Yield: 1 serving 1x

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Description

This classic Hugo Spritz recipe is the perfect balance of floral, citrusy and bubbly.

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Ingredients

• 1 ounce St-Germain elderflower liqueur
• 6 fresh mint leaves
• ice 
• lemon or lime slices
• 4 ounces chilled prosecco
• 1 ounce chilled sparkling water or club soda
• lemon or lime slices and fresh mint sprigs, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Muddle the mint. Add the St-Germain and mint leaves to a large wine glass. Use a cocktail muddler to very lightly muddle the mint and release its aroma.
2. Finish the cocktail. Fill the glass halfway full of ice and a few lemon or lime slices. Add the prosecco and stir to combine. Top with the sparkling water, then garnish with extra lemon or lime slices and mint if desired.
3. Serve. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Equipment

Cocktail Jigger

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Cocktail Muddler and Spoon Set

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Now that spring is just around the corner (thank goodness — I’m more than ready!), I’ve happily transitioned from my usual hot matcha latte each morning to iced matcha. And this vibrant, simple drink couldn’t be more refreshing. ♡

A homemade iced matcha latte is incredibly quick and easy to make in just a few minutes and costs a small fraction of the coffee shop version. All you need is some good-quality matcha powder, your choice of milk and sweetener, a splash of hot water and ice and you’ll be good to go! As always when making homemade lattes, you can completely customize the amount of milk and sweetener to your liking. Plus, I’ve included some fun variations below, in case you’d like to add in some espresso, lavender, vanilla or whatever other flavorings.

So the next time you’re craving an iced matcha latte, grab your whisk and let’s make this vibrant drink together! (more…)

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The classic White Russian recipe below is my go-to, but the best part of making homemade cocktails is that you can adjust any of the ingredient amounts to taste. I’ve also included some popular variaions on the classic cocktail below, if you’d like to play around with swapping in different spirits or add in fun flavorings. (Peppermint White Russians are always a favorite this time of year!) So the next time you’re craving a Kahlúa cocktail, grab some vodka and cream and let’s get to mixing! (more…)

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What I love most about homemade hot chocolate is how effortlessly it transforms a simple moment into something cozy and special. Whether you’re snuggling up on the couch, making a quick batch for the kids, or serving it up for a large holiday gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

So grab your favorite mug, and let’s make some homemade hot chocolate together! (more…)

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