Name: Rhubarb Cocktail
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup rhubarb, chopped; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 cup water; 2 oz vodka; 1 oz lemon juice; Ice cubes; Club soda (optional); Fresh rhubarb or lemon slices for garnish

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Refreshing Rhubarb Cocktail garnished with fresh herbs and served in a glass

Imagine sipping a refreshing cocktail that combines the tangy brightness of rhubarb with the zesty punch of lemon.

The Rhubarb Cocktail is a delightful way to enjoy this unique ingredient, showcasing its sweet and sour flavor profile.

Perfect for warm afternoons or lively gatherings, this cocktail will surely impress your friends and family.

Let’s shake things up and dive into this easy-to-make drink that’s as pretty as it is delicious!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 160
Protein: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 0g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 16g
Sodium: 2mg

Why I Love This Rhubarb Cocktail

I absolutely love this Rhubarb Cocktail for its vibrant flavors and delightful color. Rhubarb has a unique personality—tart yet sweet—which makes it so fun to work with! It reminds me of late spring afternoons spent outdoors.

Whipping up this cocktail is quick and enjoyable, making it perfect for spontaneous gatherings or a cozy evening at home.

Whether you’re lounging on the patio or hosting a small get-together, this drink brings a refreshing twist that everyone will adore!

Ingredients

1 cup rhubarb, chopped
1/2 cup sugar
1 cup water
2 oz vodka
1 oz lemon juice
Ice cubes
Club soda (optional)
Fresh rhubarb or lemon slices for garnish

How to Make Rhubarb Cocktail

Step 1: Prepare the Rhubarb Syrup

In a saucepan, combine the chopped rhubarb, sugar, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10–15 minutes. You want the rhubarb to become tender and the mixture to thicken.

Step 2: Strain the Mixture

Once the rhubarb is soft, strain the mixture through a fine sieve into a bowl, discarding the solids. Let the rhubarb syrup cool down completely before moving on to the next step.

Step 3: Mix the Cocktail

In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 oz of the cooled rhubarb syrup, vodka, and lemon juice with a handful of ice. Shake well until chilled.

Step 4: Serve Over Ice

Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice cubes for a refreshing treat.

Step 5: Add Some Fizz

If you like a little sparkle, top your cocktail with club soda. Garnish with fresh rhubarb or lemon slices to make it eye-catching. Enjoy your delightful Rhubarb Cocktail!

Tips & Variations

Garnish Creatively: Use a spiralized piece of fresh rhubarb for a stunning garnish, or consider adding a sprig of mint for a refreshing twist.
Choose Your Spirits: If you’re not a fan of vodka, gin can be a wonderful substitute. Its herbal notes complement the rhubarb beautifully.
Make it Non-Alcoholic: For a refreshing mocktail, exclude the vodka and add extra club soda or tonic water for a fizzy finish.
Sweeten to Taste: Adjust the sugar in the syrup based on your preference for sweetness; you can even try agave syrup for a different flavor profile.

Delicious Variations

Strawberry Basil Mojito: A refreshing drink made with muddled strawberries, fresh basil, lime juice, and soda.
Classic Lemonade: A timeless beverage perfect for any occasion, featuring fresh lemon juice, sugar, and water.
Cucumber Mint Fizz: A cooling drink made with cucumber slices, fresh mint, lime juice, and sparkling water.
Peach Bellini: A delightful blend of ripe peaches and prosecco that’s light and fruity.

Serving Suggestions for Rhubarb Cocktail

Serve this Rhubarb Cocktail chilled, preferably on a warm afternoon or as a pre-dinner aperitif.

The vibrant color and garnish make it a fantastic centerpiece for any gathering. Pair it with light snacks like bruschetta or shrimp cocktail for a refreshing treat that complements the drink’s tangy sweetness.

Storage and Leftovers

If you have leftover rhubarb syrup, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

This syrup is versatile and can be used in other cocktails, desserts, or even drizzled over pancakes.

For longer storage, consider freezing the syrup in ice cube trays, which allows you to enjoy refreshing rhubarb flavors anytime!

Helpful Questions

Can I use frozen rhubarb for this recipe?
Yes, frozen rhubarb can work, but it may take longer to break down during cooking. Thaw and chop it before use.
How do I know when the rhubarb syrup is ready?
The syrup is done when the rhubarb is tender and the mixture has thickened slightly.
Can I adjust the amount of sugar in the cocktail?
Absolutely! Feel free to tweak the sugar amount to match your sweetness preference.
Is there a way to make this cocktail without alcohol?
Certainly! Simply skip the vodka and increase the club soda for a delightful non-alcoholic drink.
How can I make a larger batch for a party?
You can easily multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need, preparing the rhubarb syrup in advance for quick assembly when guests arrive.