This Strawberries & Cream Cocktail blends ripe strawberries, smooth cream, and a splash of vanilla vodka into a luscious, dessert-inspired sip.
With just a handful of ingredients and a quick shake, you’ll create a silky, beverage-bar worthy treat—ideal for brunch gatherings, summer soirées, or anytime you crave something indulgently fruity.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Decadent Yet Easy: Three core ingredients and under 5 minutes to shake and pour.
Dessert in a Glass: Creamy texture meets fresh berry brightness.
Customizable Sweetness: Adjust simple syrup to suit your taste.
Elegant Presentation: Garnish with strawberry slices for a polished look.
Versatile Occasion: Perfect for bridal showers, cocktail hour, or a cozy night in.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Fresh Strawberries: Hulled and sliced for puree and garnish
Cream: Heavy cream or half-and-half for that silky mouthfeel
Vanilla Vodka: Imparts “cream” and vanilla notes; substitute whipped cream vodka for extra sweetness
Simple Syrup: Balances tart berries; homemade or store-bought
Ice: For chilling and proper dilution
Optional Garnish: Strawberry fan or mint sprig
Pro Tips Before You Start
Chill Your Glassware: Pop your coupe or martini glass in the freezer for 5 minutes.
Ripe Berries Only: Use peak-season strawberries for the fullest flavor.
Balance Sweetness: Taste your strawberry puree first, then add syrup as needed.
Strain for Smoothness: Run puree through a fine sieve to remove seeds.
Night-Before Prep: Make extra puree ahead and store in the fridge for quick mixing.
How to Make Strawberries & Cream Cocktail
Step 1: Puree the Strawberries
In a blender or food processor, blend ½ cup sliced strawberries until smooth.
Strain to remove seeds if desired.
Step 2: Combine & Shake
In a cocktail shaker, add 2 oz vanilla vodka, 1 oz heavy cream, 1 oz simple syrup, and 2 Tbsp strawberry puree.
Fill with ice, secure the lid, and shake vigorously for 15 seconds until frosty.
Step 3: Strain & Serve
Strain into your chilled glass, leaving behind any ice shards.
Garnish with a thin strawberry fan or a sprig of mint on the rim. Serve immediately.
What to Serve With Strawberries & Cream Cocktail
Shortbread Cookies: Buttery, crisp bites complement the creamy drink.
Cheese Plate: Mild Brie or Camembert with crackers echoes the smooth texture.
Fresh Fruit Skewers: More strawberries, melon, or grapes for a light accompaniment.
Mini Pavlovas: Meringue nests with whipped cream and berries mirror the cocktail’s flavors.
Variations & Substitutions
Boozy Boost: Swap half the vodka for elderflower liqueur or Chambord for floral berry notes.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and a dairy-free vodka alternative.
Sparkling Finish: Top with a splash of Prosecco or club soda for fizz.
Herbal Hint: Muddle a few basil leaves with strawberries before pureeing.
Sugar-Free: Use a stevia-based syrup and omit added simple syrup if strawberries are very sweet.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
Puree Prep: Blend strawberries up to 24 hours ahead; keep refrigerated in an airtight container.
Syrup Station: Set out vodka, cream, puree, and ice so guests can DIY their cocktails.
Batch Service: Multiply ingredients, shake without ice in a pitcher, then individual-serve with ice and fresh shake.
Leftovers: Store extra strawberry puree and simple syrup separately; mix fresh when ready to serve.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes—thaw fully and drain excess liquid before blending to avoid a watery drink.
What cream works best?
Heavy cream yields the richest texture; half-and-half lightens it up slightly.
How strong is this cocktail?
With 2 oz vodka, it’s moderately boozy—reduce vodka to 1.5 oz for a lighter version.
Can I make a mocktail?
Omit vodka, increase cream to 2 oz, and add extra strawberry puree and soda water for balance.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes—serve the non-alcoholic version in small glasses for a fun treat.
How do I keep the drink cold without watering it down?
Chill all ingredients and glassware ahead of time; use large ice cubes for slower dilution.
What if I don’t have simple syrup?
Dissolve equal parts sugar in warm water and cool before using, or stir granulated sugar into the puree.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberries & Cream Cocktail is the epitome of a dessert-inspired libation—velvety, fruity, and effortlessly elegant.
Whether you’re hosting a celebratory brunch or simply treating yourself at dusk, this cocktail delivers a harmonious blend of creamy richness and bright berry flavor.
