Sunday Funday just got better! I can’t imagine ever having a palate for gin, but definitely won’t say the same for vodka. So what’s wrong with a little switcheroo when crafting a cocktail? Absolutely nothing, friend.
It just so happens that my dear friend Patti and I were enjoying a girlfriend’s lunch recently and eyed a Lavender French 75 on the cocktail menu. Our bartender happily switched the gin for vodka and well, it turned into a second round!
This version of the Lavender French 75 is darn close to the cocktails Patti and I enjoyed that memorable afternoon. Of course, if you’re a gin type of person, that’s an easy substitute for the vodka in this recipe. Regardless, to really appreciate this cocktail, please use good brands of alcohol. It matters!
I’ve also listed a super quick and easy recipe for a small batch of Lavender Simple Syrup here because who really needs a 750ml bottle of that in their pantry?
Lavender Simple Syrup:
1 cup water
1 cup sugar
2 tbsp dried lavender flowers (use culinary/edible lavender)
Combine water, sugar and lavender buds in a medium saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium-low heat until sugar is completely dissolved, about 5 minutes.
Cover the saucepan, remove from heat and allow to steep/cool for 20-30 minutes. Place a sheet of cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer over a clean mason jar. Strain the lavender from syrup by pouring through the strainer. Secure with lid and use as desired. Makes 1 cup. Syrup will keep at room temperature for 1 week or in the refrigerator for 1 month.
These decadent Lemon+Lavender Muffins with Cream Cheese-Lemon Icing might just make the perfect accompaniment to the Lavender French 75.
Lavender French 75
Ingredients
- 4 oz Vodka Grey Goose or Ketel One recommended
- 1 oz Lavender Simple Syrup (See Notes)
- 3 oz Lemon Juice Fresh squeezed
- 4 oz Sparkling Water Perrier or Pellegrino
- 16 oz Champagne Chilled (See Notes)
- Lemon slices and lavender sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- Stir the vodka, lavender simple syrup, lemon juice, sparkling water, and several large ice cubes together in a cocktail pitcher.
- Strain out the ice cubes, then divide between four large champagne glasses or wine glasses.
- Top each glass with about 4 ounces (1/2 cup) of champagne. Garnish with lemon slices and lavender sprigs and — Cheers!