Hey everyone! Today, I’m super excited to share a recipe for the Oaks Lily Cocktail. If you love a refreshing drink that’s easy to make, this is for you.
‘The Oaks Lily Cocktail is famous at the Kentucky Oaks, which is a big horse race that happens the day before the Kentucky Derby. It’s the perfect drink to enjoy on a hot day, with its mix of cranberry juice, orange liqueur, vodka, and a splash of lemon juice.
What I love about this cocktail is how simple it is to make. You don’t need any fancy tools or ingredients. Plus, it looks really pretty with its bright pink color. It’s great for parties, or just relaxing at home.
So, let’s get ready to mix up this delicious Oaks Lily Cocktail and enjoy a taste of the Kentucky Oaks from the comfort of our own homes. Cheers!
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes – Oaks Lily Cocktail
- Chill All Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients are well-chilled before mixing. This helps keep the cocktail refreshing and avoids diluting it too quickly with melting ice.
- Homemade Simple Syrup: To make your own simple syrup, combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan. Heat until the sugar dissolves completely, then cool before using. This adds a fresher taste to your cocktail.
- Balanced Sweetness: Taste the cocktail before serving. If it’s too tart, add a little more simple syrup. If it’s too sweet, add a bit more lemon juice.
- Perfect Garnish: For a more appealing presentation, skewer the blackberries and lemon wheel just before serving to maintain their freshness and color.
- Ice Quality: Use large, clear ice cubes for a more sophisticated look and slower melting, keeping your cocktail cold longer without diluting it too much.
- Glass Choice: Although a highball glass is traditional, you can serve this cocktail in a stemless wine glass or a mason jar for a rustic feel.
- Batch Preparation: For larger gatherings, mix the cocktail ingredients (excluding ice and garnishes) in a pitcher and chill in the refrigerator. Pour over ice in individual glasses when ready to serve.
Oaks Lily Cocktail
Dive into the refreshing world of the Oaks Lily Cocktail, the official drink of the Kentucky Oaks! This vibrant, pink-hued beverage is a delightful mix of vodka, orange liqueur, cranberry juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Perfect for warm days and festive occasions, this cocktail is a nod to the race’s winning filly and breast cancer awareness. Channel the fun-loving atmosphere of race day with every sip!
1
cocktail5
minutes0
minutes180
kcal5
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
1 1/2 ounces premium vodka
1/2 ounce quality orange liqueur
3 ounces chilled cranberry juice
1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/2 ounce homemade simple syrup
Garnish: 2 fresh blackberries
Garnish: lemon wheel
- Alternative Ingredients:
Vodka substitute: Gin or white rum
Orange liqueur substitute: Triple sec or Grand Marnier
Cranberry juice substitute: Pomegranate juice or raspberry juice
Lemon juice substitute: Lime juice or grapefruit juice
Simple syrup substitute: Agave syrup or honey syrup
Directions
- Mixing Ingredients – In a highball glass, combine the vodka, orange liqueur, cranberry juice, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and simple syrup. Fill the glass with ice cubes and stir gently to mix all the ingredients thoroughly.
- Garnishing – Skewer two fresh blackberries and place them on top of the drink along with a lemon wheel for a vibrant garnish.
Equipment
- highball glass
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 5mg
- Potassium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 18g
- Protein: 0g
- Vitamin A: 0IU
- Vitamin C: 10mg
- Calcium: 1mg
- Iron: 1mg
FAQ – Oaks Lily Cocktail
How can I make this cocktail non-alcoholic?
To make a non-alcoholic version, substitute the vodka with a non-alcoholic spirit or simply increase the amount of cranberry juice. Replace the orange liqueur with orange juice or a splash of orange-flavored soda.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor. Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a bright, zesty taste that bottled juice can’t quite match.
What type of vodka works best for this cocktail?
A high-quality, smooth vodka is best for the Oaks Lily Cocktail. Premium brands like Grey Goose, Belvedere, or Tito’s Handmade Vodka will enhance the overall taste of the drink.
Can I prepare this cocktail in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the liquid components of the cocktail in advance and store them in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to add ice and garnishes just before serving to maintain the cocktail’s freshness and presentation.
What can I serve with this cocktail?
The Oaks Lily Cocktail pairs well with light appetizers such as bruschetta, a fresh fruit platter, or cheese and crackers. Its refreshing taste complements these lighter foods perfectly.
