A timeless, elegant drink featuring a sugar cube soaked in aromatic bitters, topped with champagne and brightened by a twist of lemon.
Simple yet sophisticated, it’s perfect for toasts, celebrations, or an evening indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Effortless elegance — just three ingredients create a refined cocktail.
Balanced flavor — bitters-infused sugar cube adds depth and sweetness.
Sparkling appeal — champagne delivers lightness and festive bubbles.
Quick assembly — ideal for last-minute celebrations or champagne lovers.
Versatile presentation — serve in flutes or coupe glasses for a classy touch.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Sugar cube — base for absorbing bitters and slowly sweetening the drink.
Aromatic bitters — Angostura or similar for complex spice notes.
Champagne — crisp, bubbly wine that lifts flavors.
Lemon twist — garnish that adds citrus aroma and brightness.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Chill your glassware in advance for an extra crisp sip.
Use high-quality champagne for the best flavor profile.
Allow the bitters to fully soak into the sugar cube before adding champagne.
Gently pour champagne to preserve effervescence around the cube.
How to Make the Champagne Cocktail
Step 1: Prepare the Glass
Place 1 sugar cube in the bottom of a chilled flute or coupe.
Step 2: Add Bitters
Douse the cube with 4–6 dashes of aromatic bitters, letting it absorb the liquid.
Step 3: Top with Champagne
Slowly fill the glass with champagne, allowing bubbles to rise through the cube.
Step 4: Garnish
Twist a lemon peel over the drink to release oils, then drop it in or perch it on the rim.
What to Serve It With
Light canapés such as smoked salmon on crackers.
Delicate oysters or seafood platters for a luxe experience.
Sweet petits fours or fruit tarts for a dessert pairing.
Variations & Substitutions
Swap champagne for prosecco or cava for a different bubble profile.
Experiment with flavored bitters like orange or chocolate.
Use sparkling rosé for a hint of fruity color and flavor.
Storage & Leftovers
Assemble cocktails just before serving to keep them bubbly.
Pre-soak sugar cubes with bitters and store in glass jars for quick assembly.
FAQs
Can I use regular sugar instead of a cube?
No — a sugar cube dissolves uniformly, whereas granulated sugar may clump.
How many dashes of bitters are ideal?
4–6 dashes provide balanced flavor; adjust to taste.
Is champagne necessary?
Sparkling wine like prosecco or cava works as a substitute.
What glass is best for this cocktail?
A flute highlights bubbles; a coupe offers vintage charm.
Can I prep bittered cubes ahead?
Yes — soak cubes, let dry slightly, and store in an airtight container.
Why use a lemon twist?
It adds aromatic oils and a bright citrus note.
Is this cocktail sweet?
It’s subtly sweet; the sugar cube balances the bitters’ spice.
Final Thoughts
The Classic Champagne Cocktail is proof that simplicity can be stunning. With three ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll impress any guest!
