It’s popping up on menus everywhere; once you’ve tried it, you’ll see why!
Unlike its colorful cousin, the Aperol Spritz, the Hugo is delicate, floral, and light thanks to a combination of fresh mint, Prosecco, and St-Germain elderflower liqueur. It’s the perfect drink or aperitif on a warm summer night with its lower-by-volume alcohol content and calories.
We’ve got directions for a single drink, and a pitcher of drinks for a crowd. It’s an aperitif, so be sure to add some fun bites, like our Honey Roasted Cashews, and pita chips with Tzatziki Dip and you’ve got a party!
Ingredients Needed
- St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur – or any brand you prefer
- Fresh Mint Sprigs – see tips below for keeping them fresh
- Prosecco – use a dry (brut) Prosecco
- Sparkling Water or Soda Water – choose unflavored and chill it before using
- Ice – this is a drink best served very cold!
- Lime – lime wheels for garnish
How to make a classic Hugo Spritz cocktail
There are just four easy steps for this refresher:
- Add the St-Germain elderflower liqueur and 2 torn mint leaves to a large wine glass or cocktail glass. Gently muddle the mint leaves with the back of a spoon and let sit for about 2 minutes to allow the mint to release its natural oils
- Add a generous scoop of ice, and the chilled Prosecco, and stir
- Top with the chilled sparkling water, and briefly stir to combine
- Drop in the lime wheel and garnish with a sprig of mint
How to make a pitcher of Hugo Spritz cocktails
- Add the St-Germain liqueur and 5-6 leaves of torn mint in a large pitcher. Muddle the mint gently and let rest for about 2 minutes to infuse with flavor.
- Add plenty of ice and pour in the Prosecco. Stir to combine and top with the sparkling water. Gently stir to mix everything.
- Add a few lime wheels to the pitcher and a lime wheel slice to each glass and fill each glass with the Hugo mixture.
- Garnish with prepared mint sprig and enjoy!
How to keep mint fresh for a garnish
- Rinse in cool water and store in a small ice bath or store stem down in a small container of water
- Strip the lower leaves from the stalk so that you have a nice bouquet remaining at the top
- Gently slap the mint on your palm to release the natural oil right before garnishing. This will result in a beautiful perfume of mint with each sip!
Who invented the Hugo Spritz?
- Roland Gruber, a bartender in the northern Italian town of Naturno, which is on the Italian-Austrian border, invented the Hugo Spritz cocktail around 2005
- It quickly gained popularity in Austria, Germany, and Italy. More recently it has become popular in the U.S., as well. It was originally named “Otto” and is sometimes referred to as just a “Hugo”
What is Elderflower Liqueur
- This liqueur is made from elderflower blossoms and sugar that is fermented
- It has a lightly sweet and floral flavor
- We recommend the St-Germain brand, but any elderflower liqueur will work, and you should consume it within 6 months of opening it. Store in a cool dry place.
Substitutions and Variations
- For a pink Hugo Spritz use a Rosé Prosecco
- Use white wine instead of Prosecco for a less bubbly version, sometimes called the St-Germain Cocktail
- A St-Germain Spritz is similar and delicious. It’s a simple mixture of Prosecco, St-Germain, Soda Water, and a lemon wheel.
Best glasses to use for a Spritz
- Any type of spritz will benefit from a large wine glass which allows you to use plenty of ice. This is a drink that needs to be cold!
- A highball glass, or a standard rocks-style will work, as well.
What to serve with a Hugo Spritz
The Hugo is an aperitif, meant to be served before a meal or with a late afternoon snack. Thanks to all the bubbles in this drink, it pairs well with salty and creamy foods. Here are some fun options:
- Roasted Chickpeas – a perfect crunchy salty treat
- Baked Brie with Garlic – creamy, and a perfect pairing
- How to Make a Cheese Board – an easy make-ahead appetizer
- Sun Kissed Tomatoes – Italian-style and a traditional aperitif snack
Hugo Spritz
Ingredients
For one Hugo Spritz
- 2 sprigs fresh mint, divided for drink and garnish
- 1 ounce St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur, chilled
- 1 scoop ice
- 4 ounces Prosecco chilled
- 1 ounce Sparkling Water or Soda Water chilled
- 1 slice Lime cut into a wheel for garnish
For a Pitcher (6 servings)
- 1 bunch fresh mint, divided
- 6 ounces St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur chilled
- ice
- 750 ml Prosecco, (1 bottle) chilled
- 6 ounces Sparkling Water or Soda Water, chilled
- 6 slices Lime, cut into wheels for garnish
Instructions
For one Hugo Spritz
- Add the St-Germain and 2 torn mint leaves into a wine glass. Gently muddle and let sit for 2 minutes.1 ounce St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur,
- Add ice and Prosecco. Stir gently. Top with sparkling water and stir again.Add the lime wheel to the glass and garnish with a sprig of mint.1 scoop ice, 4 ounces Prosecco, 1 ounce Sparkling Water or Soda Water, 1 slice Lime
For a pitcher of Hugo Spritz
- Add the St-Germain liqueur and 5-6 mint leaves to a large pitcher. Gently muddle and let sit for 2 minutes.6 ounces St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur
- Add ice and Prosecco and stir gently to combine. Add sparkling water and gently stir again.ice, 750 ml Prosecco, (1 bottle), 6 ounces Sparkling Water or Soda Water,
- Add a lime wheel to each of 6 wine or cocktail glasses for serving, pour in mixed Hugo Spritz, and garnish each glass with a sprig of mint.6 slices Lime,
Notes
- Be sure to chill ingredients in advance for best results.
- If making a pitcher of drinks ahead of time add only the torn mint and liqueur, then add the Prosecco, ice, and sparkling water when ready to serve. Finish with garnishing.
- To bring out full mint sprig flavor gently slap the sprig on the palm of your hand before garnishing.
Nutrition
Add a salty rim and you’ve got the perfect sunny drink!
What is a Paloma? The classic Paloma recipe is a tequila-based cocktail mixed with fresh grapefruit juice, fresh lime juice, and soda water (or grapefruit soda) and served on the rocks. We choose fresh juices for our version.
If you’re a grapefruit lover this is your drink!
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our affiliate disclosure policy for details. We only recommend products we love and use.
Paloma Cocktail Ingredients:
The traditional Paloma cocktail is made with fizzy grapefruit soda or Squirt. We prefer a modern updated version using fresh juices, but feel free to substitute your favorite. This refreshing cocktail is popular on Cinco de Mayo.
- Blanco Tequila – The Paloma will make you a believer in Blanco tequila. Also called silver tequila or white tequila. Blanco is characterized by a clear appearance, has a clean flavor, and is used in the classic margarita. It’s lighter in taste than gold tequila or reposado tequila which is aged in oak barrels. Choose a good tequila for this recipe.
- Grapefruit Juice – Freshly squeezed juice is the best choice, but in a pinch, you can use premade juice (with no added sugar). We used ruby red grapefruits to get the gorgeous pink grapefruit color you see in our photos, but any color of grapefruit will work.
- Lime Juice – Use freshly squeezed. Depending on how tart your grapefruit is you can add more or less to balance the flavor of the drink.
- Simple Syrup – It’s a cinch to make your own and we have a step-by-step write-up about how to make simple syrup. Adjust the amount to suit your taste because it’s sugar syrup. Add more if you prefer a sweeter cocktail or leave it out altogether for a “Skinny Paloma”. Agave syrup or agave nectar is a good substitute.
- Sparkling Soda Water – We use this in place of grapefruit soda. Try Perrier or Topo Chico brands for the cleanest flavor.
- Kosher Salt – For the rim of the glass. This is optional but provides the perfect balance between salty, sweet, and sour with every sip! You can also use coarse sea salt.
- Jalapeno – Optional – if you want to make it spicy! See the recipe card for instructions on how to add it
How to Make a Classic Paloma
This sunny refresher is simple and quick to make, so let’s start mixing!
Making a salt rim glass:
- Add enough kosher (or coarse) salt to cover the bottom of a small plate (such as a salad plate)
- Wet the rim of the glass by rubbing a lime wedge or grapefruit wedge around the edge of the glass
- Dip the rim of your glass into the salt to lightly coat the edges and set aside to dry
Mixing the cocktail:
- Cut the grapefruit into quarters and slice a small wedge for garnish
- Juice the limes. Reserve a lime wedge for garnish before juicing.
- In a cocktail shaker with a strainer: add simple syrup, grapefruit juice, lime juice, tequila, and about 1/2 cup of ice
- Seal the shaker and shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds. The shaker should be icy cold after shaking!
- Add a handful of ice to the prepared salted glass
- Strain the shaken drink into the glass
- Top with the sparkling water
- Garnish with the reserved wedge of grapefruit (and a round of lime, if desired)
- Serve with tortilla chips, guacamole, and a bowl of fresh Salsa Verde
What is the best tequila for a Paloma?
- The classic Mexican Paloma is traditionally made with Blanco tequila, also known as silver or white tequila. It is characterized by its clear appearance and clean fresh flavor. This type of tequila has no color because it is bottled directly after being distilled.
- Blanco has notes of citrus flavors and agave and is best used in light refreshing drinks. There is a variety of prices and brands. Since the tequila is mixed with citrus fruit juices we recommend choosing a mid-priced tequila.
- Blanco is lighter in taste than reposado tequila, which is aged in oak before bottling. We love reposado in our Spicy Mango Margarita which has a much bolder flavor.
Variations:
There are a few ways to vary this summer favorite. Here are some ideas:
- SKINNY PALOMA – this version omits the simple syrup which saves calories and reduces the overall sugar content
- PALOMA MOCKTAIL – make an alcohol-free Paloma by skipping the tequila
- CLASSIC PALOMA – This combo is just tequila, fresh lime juice, and Squirt or another grapefruit soda. (The sugar in the grapefruit-flavored soda means you can skip the simple syrup and fresh grapefruit juice)
- SPICY PALOMA: The most popular variation is the Spicy Paloma which includes jalapenos for an added pop of medium heat. To make this spicy version slice half of a jalapeno, add 2 pieces to the salted glass, toss 2 more pieces in the cocktail shaker with the simple syrup, and muddle them together before adding the remaining ingredients. Shake everything. Muddling the jalapeno releases its natural oils and adds heat.
Chefs Tip
- When salting the rim of a highball glass, or lowball glass, prep the glasses before shaking the drink. This allows the salt to dry before serving.
The History of the Paloma Cocktail
The Spanish word Paloma means “dove”.
- Stories abound, but one states that the La Paloma cocktail was created by Don Javier Delgado Corona, owner, and bartender of La Capilla, in Tequila, Mexico.
- Other stories claim that the delicious Paloma cocktail originated in Texas in 1938 when the soda brand Squirt, with grapefruit flavor, was invented. A marketing campaign touted it as the perfect mixer for tequila cocktails.
Perfect Pairing for the Paloma
We love an evening of appetizers, with cocktails, or pair with a spicy dinner:
- Salty tortilla chips with homemade Pineapple Salsa and a tray of Mini Taco Cups
- Honey Roasted Cashews or crunchy Coconut Shrimp
- Tangy Chile Verde or spicy Shrimp in Chipotle Sauce
- Grilled Carne Asada or Cedar Plank Salmon
- A pan of Green Chicken Enchiladas will pair perfectly with Paloma’s citrusy flavor
Paloma Cocktail
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker with strainer
Ingredients
- Coarse or Kosher salt for the rim of the glass
- 4 ounces Grapefruit juice (+ 2 wedges for garnish) freshly squeezed, about 1 large grapefruit
- 2 ounces Blanco Tequila
- 1 ounce Lime juice, freshly squeezed (about 1 lime)
- ½ Tablespoons Simple Syrup (or agave)
- 1 ounce Sparkling Water
Optional for Spicy Paloma
- ½ Jalapeno, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Cut the grapefruit into quarters. Slice a few small wedges for garnish and set aside. Juice the remaining grapefruit. Juice the lime and set aside.
- Salt the rim of an 8-ounce lowball glass by rubbing a grapefruit wedge around the edge of the glass and dipping it onto a small plate of coarse or Kosher salt.
- Add a handful of ice to the glass. Set aside to allow the salted rim to dry.SPICY VERSION: If making the drinks spicy, add 2 slices of jalapeno to the glass
- In a cocktail shaker add the simple syrup. SPICY VERSION: If making spicy add 2 slices of jalapeno and muddle with the simple syrup to release the jalapeno's natural oils
- Add about 1/2 cup of ice to the shaker. Add the grapefruit juice, Blanco tequila, and lime juice. Shake for 20-30 seconds until the shaker becomes icy cold. Strain into the prepared salted glass, and top with sparkling water.Garnish with a grapefruit wedge and serve.
Notes
- Make a Skinny Paloma – delete the simple syrup
- Make a Spicy Paloma – add jalapeno to the glass and muddle a jalapeno in the shaker
- Making your own Simple Syrup is just that ~ simple! But you can also use agave
Nutrition
Light and refreshing it is the perfect cocktail on a hot summer day. Aperol Spritzes are easy to make and the perfect summer cocktail for serving with brunch, lunch, or at happy hour!
One sip of this gorgeously refreshing drink and you will feel like you are sitting on the Grand Canal in Venice or walking down the streets of Rome.
The simple ingredients in an Aperol Spritz Cocktail
Just 4 ingredients, including a gorgeous orange wedge garnish, are all you need for this delicious classic Italian cocktail.
- Aperol – this aperitif gives the cocktail its vibrant orange hue and is the star ingredient
- Prosecco – Italy’s bubbly sparkling wine
- Sanpellegrino Orange Sparkling Soda – adds a fizzy finish to this bubbly cocktail
- Orange slice for garnish – We used navel oranges
- Ice Cubes
How to make our classic Aperol Spritz Recipe?
The best way to make this refreshing cocktail is to start with a full glass of ice cubes. We recommend making this bubbly drink in a large wine glass.
- Add equal parts Prosecco and Aperol, amounts can vary depending on the size of glass you use. Blend to combine.
- Top with a splash of Orange Sanpellegrino or a splash of club soda, equal to about 1/2 ounce.
- Garnish with a slice of orange, or orange peel, and serve!
You can adjust the sweetness level to suit your taste. Add more Aperol for more sweetness, or add more Procecco for less. You can also add extra Orange Sanpellegrino to make the cocktail less sweet.
What kind of alcohol is Aperol?
- Aperol is an Italian aperitif with a distinctive bright orange hue and is made from rhubarb, cinchona, gentian, and herbs. On the palate, it has a strong bold orange and mandarin flavor. Aperol has an alcohol content of 11%, which is similar to most wines. We recommend you keep the bottle of Aperol in the refrigerator after opening.
- You can serve Aperol straight on the rocks but our favorite way to enjoy it is in our easy Aperol Spritz Recipe.
Is Prosecco a Champagne?
What is the difference between Prosecco and Champagne?
- Prosecco is a sparkling wine from northern Italy’s Veneto region. Prosecco is made with the Charmat sparkling method, the entire fermentation process is done in stainless steel. It has about 3.5 times the atmospheric pressure in the bottle.
- French Champagne comes from the Champagne region of France. Made with the traditional method, the primary fermentation is done in stainless steel or old wood for malolactic conversion. A secondary fermentation occurs in the bottle. Champagne has 6 times the atmospheric pressure in the bottle, which provides a glass full of bubbles to tickle our nose.
Looking for other simple cocktail recipes?
- Homemade Bloody Mary Mix Recipe
- Blueberry and Vodka Cocktails
- Blackberry Champagne Cocktail
- Blood Orange Vodka Creamsicle Martini
- Red Velvet Martinis
- Watermelon Vodka Cocktail
Aperol Spritz Cocktail
Ingredients
- ½ cup Aperol adjust as needed
- ½ cup Prosecco adjust as needed
- ½ ounce Orange Sanpellegrino Sparkling
- 1 slice Orange, for garnish
- 1 glass Ice
Instructions
- Fill glasses with Ice
- Add equal parts of Aperol and Prosecco, adjusting amount for the size of the glasses used. Blend.
- Add a splash of Orange Sanpellegrino, about 1/2 ounce
- Garnish with a slice of orange and serve
Notes
Nutrition
Ingredients for making Irish Cream
- Irish Whiskey – our first choice is Jameson brand because of its authentic flavor. But, feel free to use the whiskey of your choice.
- Heavy Whipping Cream – for a rich creamy flavor. It can also be labeled heavy cream.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk -creates a silky texture to the finished liqueur.
- Regular Milk – we chose to use low-fat milk for our version.
- Hershey’s Chocolate Syrup – use any brand of dark chocolate syrup.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – have you tried making your own? It’s easy to make Homemade vanilla extract.
- 2 Eggs – or optional espresso powder
- Instant Espresso Powder – sometimes labeled as simply espresso powder.
This version of Irish Cream is just like a homemade Baileys recipe
Irish cream is a cream-based liqueur with Irish Whiskey as the base. This Irish cream has a soft coffee flavor thanks to a blend of cream, sugar, chocolate syrup, and a splash of pure vanilla extract. Let’s not forget the Jameson whiskey!
Bailey Irish Cream has name recognition and is the most popular brand on the market. But, by using just a few fresh ingredients this homemade version is a simple recipe that can be made in minutes at home.
It’s easy to make this wonderful classic liqueur at home. We offer you two amazing options, and both are equally delicious.
The original family recipe calls for 2 eggs. For our friends who have a sensitivity to raw eggs, we also offer the different, but equally wonderful, option of using instant espresso powder.
How to make Irish Cream Liqueur
- Combine cream, sweetened condensed milk, milk, Hershey’s chocolate syrup, and vanilla extract in a blender. Blend thoroughly on a medium speed for a few minutes.
- Add in either 2 eggs or the Instant espresso powder. Use either the eggs or espresso powder, but not both.
- Add Irish Whiskey and blend briefly on low speed to combine.
- Serve neat or over ice. Can also be served in coffee or hot chocolate.
Pro Tip – To ensure the smoothest version of this scrumptious recipe add the whiskey last. Completely blend all of the ingredients – excluding the whiskey – then slowly drizzle in the whiskey and give it another blend to combine.
If you do not have an electric blender simply use a hand whisk and whisk thoroughly.
The best ways to serve Homemade Irish Cream
- This lovely recipe makes a wonderful after dinner drink on its own or as an accompaniment with dessert.
- Our favorite way to serve it is “straight up” or over ice.
- It is also a beautiful addition to your after dinner coffee or delicious poured over ice cream.
There are also several cocktail recipes, that go from good to crazy good when you add this Irish Cream! For example, our luscious Chocolate Martini Recipe.
If you add our Easy Pumpkin Spice Syrup to this Irish Cream you can make our Pumpkin Spice Martinis which are a Fall favorite.
How to make ahead and store
The best part of this quick treat is that it can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to three weeks or served immediately.
- Refrigerate in sealed airtight containers, or mason jars, for up to 3 weeks. After refrigeration give it a good shake before serving
We love to package Irish Cream and share it with our friends. There are so many beautiful glass bottles to choose from online. You can also create a fun gift tag to add to the pretty bottles letting your friends know what’s inside and how to store them.
Homemade Bailey’s Irish Cream is a popular Christmas gift and is also a Valentine’s Day favorite.
Additional Beverages and Liqueurs to make at home!
- Cranberry orange liqueur
- Irish Coffee Recipe
- Chocolate Martini
- Pumpkin Spice Martini
- Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe
- White Chocolate Snowflake Martini
This Irish Cream pairs well with these amazing desserts
Homemade Irish Cream
Equipment
- Blender
- Glass bottles
Ingredients
- ¾ cup Heavy Whipping Cream
- ½ cup Milk (low-fat, 2%, or whole)
- 14 oz Sweetened condensed milk
- 2 Tablespoon Chocolate Syrup (such as Hershey's)
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 2 eggs, (optional can be made with instant espresso powder instead of eggs)
- 1 Tbsp Instant Espresso Powder, (optional, can be used instead of 2 eggs)
- 1 cup Irish Whiskey (i.e Jameson's)
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to the blender, except whiskey, and blend on medium speed until thoroughly mixed. Drizzle in whiskey and mix again.
- Pour into a jar or bottle with a lid. Can be served immediately. If not, keep refrigerated for up to 3 weeks.
- Our original recipe uses 2 eggs, however, the substitution below works well.Egg-free Option: Substitute 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder. Use either eggs or instant espresso powder option. Don't use both.
- Irish Cream can be stored in the refrigerator, sealed, for up to 3 weeks. Shake well before serving.
Notes
- Instant Espresso Powder can be found by clicking here
- Want to make your chocolate syrup? Our hot fudge recipe will work!
Nutrition
There is a lot of love for the Pumpkin Spice Latte that was made famous by Starbucks. This seasonal favorite comes back every Fall and for good reason! It’s creamy, flavorful, and really delicious!
What’s not to love? Well, maybe the artificial ingredients, the cost, and the fact that you have to leave your cozy house on a Sunday morning to get your “fix”! We came up with a version we love and we think you will too.
Ready to get started? Just click the “jump to recipe” button or keep reading for more tips and ideas. This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our affiliate disclosure for more details. We only recommend products we love and use.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Latte
- 2 shots of espresso (or 1/4 cup of very strong coffee)
- 1 Tablespoon pure pumpkin puree – not pumpkin pie mix
- 1 Tablespoon pumpkin pie spice mix – we love this homemade version
- 1 Tablespoon Pumpkin Spice Syrup
- 8 ounces milk – 2% is our top choice
- Whipped cream for garnish, optional but so delicious!
How to make Pumpkin Spice Lattes
Here is our foolproof recipe for a homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte!
This recipe is for an 8-ounce latte. Adjust accordingly if you want a larger serving.
- Prepare 1-2 shots of your favorite espresso, or 1/4 cup strong coffee, and add to a coffee mug
- Add 1 Tbsp pumpkin puree, 1 Tbsp of pumpkin pie spice mix, and 1 Tbsp of homemade Pumpkin Spice Syrup and mix to combine
- Froth 1 cup of milk until hot and foamy. We use nonfat or 2% but any type will work. If you don’t have a frother use your blender to froth
- You can also substitute almond or soy milk but keep in mind it won’t froth up quite the same
- Add the frothy milk to the espresso mix
- Top with fresh whipped cream
- Dust with a pinch of cinnamon or Pumpkin Pie Spice
- Sit back in your pajamas and enjoy!
Making homemade ingredients
The first step is to make our all-purpose easy Pumpkin Pie Spice. You can also pick up a jar at any market. This spice blend can be used all season for pies, bread, scones, and muffins, but we started off by using it in our Pumpkin Spice Syrup.
Our Pumpkin Spice Syrup is easy to make and is honestly like Fall liquid gold! Pour it on pancakes and waffles, or use it as a base for a pumpkin glaze on cakes. It makes a fun mixer in a cocktail, as well. We love it in Pumpkin Spice Martinis and Pumpkin Pie Milkshakes.
No espresso machine? No problem
If you don’t have an espresso maker just substitute a really strong cup of coffee. Since espresso is stronger you will need to double the amount if using strong coffee.
Other Pumpkin recipes to try
- Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Creamy Pumpkin Milkshakes
- Pumpkin Spice Martinis
- Pumpkin Bread Recipe
- Spicy Pumpkin Soup
Pumpkin Spice Latte
Equipment
- Espresso Maker
- Milk Frother (or blender)
Ingredients
- 1-2 shots espresso Depending on how strong you like your lattes (or 1/4 cup very strong coffee)
- 1 Tbsp pumpkin puree
- 1 pinch pumpkin pie spice mix
- 2 Tbsp Pumpkin Spice Syrup
- 1 cup milk
- Whipped Cream, for garnish
Instructions
- Brew 1-2 shots of espresso and add to a mug.
- Add pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice mix, and the pumpkin spice syrup to the espresso in the mug and stir well to combine.
- Froth 1 cup of milk and slowly pour it into the mug of espresso.
- Top with whipped cream and dust with a sprinkling of pumpkin pie spice mix. Garnish with a cinnamon stick, if desired
Notes
- Calories based on fat-free milk
- Dusting with cinnamon tastes great too!
- Link to our homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice blend
- Link to our easy homemade Pumpkin Spice Syrup