Lychee Martini Recipe – Exotic Vodka Cocktail with Lychee Syrup & Juice

Lychee MartiniLychee Martini – When it comes to elegant cocktails, the Lychee Martini stands out for its exotic sweetness, floral aroma, and silky-smooth flavor. This cocktail originated as a creative twist on the classic martini, swapping out the traditional vermouth for sweet, juicy lychee syrup. With its delicate balance of tropical fruit and crisp vodka, it has become a favorite in upscale bars and at-home cocktail parties alike.

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Lychee, a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia, is loved for its floral fragrance and juicy, grape-like texture. When combined with vodka and a splash of lychee syrup, the result is a sophisticated cocktail that is both refreshing and luxurious. It’s light, fruity, and slightly floral, making it perfect for summer evenings, romantic dinners, or festive celebrations.

Recipe Overview

Course: Beverage / Cocktail / Party Drink
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired / Fusion
Servings: 1 cocktail
Calories: ~180 kcal
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Active Time: 5 minutes
Resting Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka (chilled)

• 1 oz lychee syrup (from canned lychees or homemade)

• 1 oz lychee juice (or lychee liqueur)

• ½ oz lime juice (optional)

• Ice cubes

• Whole lychee fruit (for garnish)

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker

• Jigger

• Strainer

• Martini glass

• Ice cubes

Instructions

1. Chill martini glass in freezer.

2. Add vodka, lychee syrup, lychee juice/liqueur, and lime juice to a cocktail shaker with ice.

3. Shake vigorously 15–20 seconds until frosty.

4. Strain into chilled martini glass.

5. Garnish with a whole lychee and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Tips for the Best Lychee Martini

• Use fresh lychee (if available): Fresh fruit gives a brighter, less sugary taste than canned.

• Chill everything: Keep your vodka, martini glass, and even the lychee garnish chilled for a crisp cocktail.

• Adjust sweetness: Balance sweetness by reducing syrup if using lychee liqueur, or adding a splash of lime for acidity.

• Strain well: Shaking with ice creates small shards; double strain if you prefer a smooth, crystal-clear martini.

• Garnish creatively: Try skewering lychee with a mint sprig, or freeze lychees to use as “ice cubes” that don’t dilute the drink.

• Flavor twist: Add a splash of elderflower liqueur, coconut water, or ginger syrup for a unique variation.

Conclusion

The Lychee Martini is a delightful balance of tropical sweetness, floral fragrance, and smooth vodka kick. It’s quick to prepare, requires just a few ingredients, and instantly elevates any gathering with its exotic elegance. Whether served at a dinner party, summer evening, or festive celebration, this cocktail is sure to impress guests and refresh the senses. Simple yet sophisticated, the Lychee Martini proves that sometimes the best cocktails are also the easiest

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