Prosecco is a light, bubbly, and affordable sparkling wine that makes any occasion feel special. While it’s commonly enjoyed on its own, it also serves as the perfect base for creating a variety of refreshing cocktails. The best part? You don’t have to spend a lot of money to enjoy a delicious Prosecco cocktail. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create elegant and fun drinks without breaking the bank. Here’s how to make your own Prosecco cocktails on a budget.
Essential Ingredients for Budget-Friendly Prosecco Cocktails:
- Prosecco: The star of your cocktail. Look for reasonably priced options from brands like La Marca, Martini & Rossi, or Freixenet, which offer good quality without the premium price tag.
- Fruit Juices: Fresh or bottled juices like orange, cranberry, pineapple, or pomegranate add flavor without costing much.
- Liqueurs: Small bottles of liqueurs such as Aperol, elderflower liqueur, or triple sec can elevate your cocktail without a large investment.
- Fresh Fruit: Use citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes, or berries for a splash of color and flavor. These are often affordable and can be used in multiple cocktails.
- Simple Syrup: You can make this yourself by dissolving equal parts sugar and water, which is much cheaper than buying pre-made syrup.
- Mint or Herbs: A sprig of fresh mint or basil adds a refreshing aroma and flavor, and herbs are generally inexpensive.
5 Budget-Friendly Prosecco Cocktail Recipes:
Classic Bellini
The Bellini is a timeless cocktail that combines the sweetness of fruit with the crisp bubbles of Prosecco. Ingredients:
- 2 oz peach purée (you can use canned or frozen peaches)
- Prosecco
- A splash of simple syrup (optional) Instructions:
- In a glass, pour the peach purée.
- Top with chilled Prosecco.
- Add a splash of simple syrup for extra sweetness, if desired.
- Stir gently and serve.
Mimosa
Perfect for brunch, the Mimosa is an easy and refreshing drink made with just two ingredients. Ingredients:
- 1 part orange juice (fresh or bottled)
- 3 parts Prosecco Instructions:
- Pour chilled orange juice into a glass.
- Top with Prosecco.
- Stir lightly to combine. Garnish with an orange slice, if desired.
Aperol Spritz
A popular Italian cocktail, the Aperol Spritz is known for its vibrant color and balanced bitterness, perfect for a light and refreshing drink. Ingredients:
- 2 oz Aperol
- 3 oz Prosecco
- 1 oz soda water
- Orange slice for garnish Instructions:
- Fill a glass with ice and pour in Aperol.
- Add Prosecco and soda water.
- Stir gently and garnish with an orange slice.
Pomegranate Fizz
The tartness of pomegranate juice pairs beautifully with the sweetness of Prosecco for a festive, visually stunning cocktail. Ingredients:
- 2 oz pomegranate juice
- Prosecco
- Fresh pomegranate seeds (optional for garnish) Instructions:
- Pour the pomegranate juice into a glass.
- Top with Prosecco and stir gently.
- Garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds or a lemon twist.
Citrus Mint Cooler
This cocktail is bright, refreshing, and perfect for summer. Ingredients:
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 1 oz simple syrup
- Prosecco
- Fresh mint leaves Instructions:
- Muddle a few mint leaves in a glass.
- Add lime juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Fill the glass with ice and top with Prosecco.
- Stir gently and garnish with more mint leaves.
Tips for Making Prosecco Cocktails on a Budget:
- Buy Prosecco in Bulk: If you’re planning to make multiple cocktails, consider buying Prosecco in larger bottles or multi-packs, which often cost less per bottle.
- Use Fruit Juices Wisely: Fruit juices like orange or cranberry can be used in multiple cocktails, so buying a larger container will save you money in the long run. Just be sure to store them properly to avoid spoilage.
- DIY Garnishes: Instead of buying expensive cocktail garnishes, use fruits and herbs you already have at home. A sprig of mint or a slice of citrus can go a long way.
- Make Your Own Syrup: Simple syrup can be made easily at home by dissolving sugar in water. This is a cheaper alternative to buying pre-made syrups.
- Serve in Basic Glassware: Fancy glassware isn’t necessary to enjoy a delicious cocktail. Use any wine glass or even tumblers you already have at home.
With these easy recipes and budget-friendly tips, you can enjoy sparkling, festive Prosecco cocktails without spending a fortune. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply relaxing at home, these cocktails will add a touch of sophistication and fun without the hefty price tag. Cheers to creative, affordable cocktails!