The Lavender Gin Fizz is a floral, bubbly cocktail that mixes smooth gin, fragrant lavender syrup, and fresh lemon juice, then gets topped with club soda. If you toss in some egg white, you’ll get that creamy, foamy top—honestly, it makes the drink feel kind of fancy, and it looks gorgeous too. There’s something about the springy flavors and gentle fizz that makes this cocktail feel right at home at brunch, a picnic, or just hanging out with a few friends.
Pick a premium dry gin, or if you’re feeling adventurous, try a floral gin to really play up the lavender. For a finishing touch, a lemon wheel or some edible flowers on top never hurt. And hey, there’s even a non-alcoholic version, so you don’t have to leave anyone out.
Don’t be afraid to mess around with different gins or syrups until you hit your sweet spot. This is one of those cocktails that really pops—people will notice, and you barely have to break a sweat.
Table of Contents
What Is a Lavender Gin Fizz?
A Lavender Gin Fizz is a bubbly, floral gin cocktail with a creamy foam and that pretty, pale purple color. It’s basically a classic fizz with a twist—thanks to lavender syrup and lemon juice, you get something refreshing and a little unexpected.
History of the Gin Fizz
This cocktail comes from the old “fizz” family, which first made waves in the late 1800s. A traditional Gin Fizz is just gin, citrus (usually lemon), simple syrup, and club soda. Sometimes, bartenders add egg white for a smooth, foamy finish.
People fell for the bright, lively taste and the bubbles. It became a go-to at American bars, especially in the early 1900s.
There are plenty of fizz variations. The Ramos Gin Fizz, for example, has heavy cream and orange flower water. Over time, bartenders started riffing on the original, swapping in new flavors but keeping that signature foam up top.
Origins of Lavender in Cocktails
Lavender found its way into cocktails as bartenders started craving fresh, floral flavors. Its gentle, aromatic vibe just works with gin, which already has a bunch of botanical notes. Around the early 2000s, floral syrups and herbal infusions started popping up at bars.
Adding lavender syrup to a Gin Fizz gives it that lovely aroma and a subtle purple tinge. It’s a fun twist that stands out at brunch or spring get-togethers.
Lavender’s also great for garnishing—sometimes with other edible flowers or a lemon wheel for a little extra color. The combo of lavender, gin, and lemon is just… memorable. It’s balanced without being boring.
Lavender Gin Rickey vs Lavender Gin Fizz
The Lavender Gin Rickey and Lavender Gin Fizz both use the delicate flavor of lavender, but they’re totally different experiences. The Rickey is super light, crisp, and bubbly—just gin, lavender syrup, citrus, and soda water built right in the glass. It’s not too sweet, lower in calories, and perfect for a sunny brunch or a relaxing afternoon.
On the other hand, the Lavender Gin Fizz is creamy, frothy, and a bit more of a showstopper. You shake it up with egg white, gin, lavender syrup, and lemon juice, so it’s sweeter and richer, with a silky texture and a more pronounced floral note. This one feels right at home at a festive evening or when you want to impress your guests.
So, if you want something easy, refreshing, and floral, go for the Rickey. If you’re in the mood for a sweet, creamy cocktail that really stands out, the Fizz is the way to go. Both are delicious, but they fit totally different vibes
Key Ingredients in a Lavender Gin Fizz
For a classic Lavender Gin Fizz, your ingredient picks really shape the whole drink. Gin, lavender, and lemon juice each do their own thing—so don’t just grab whatever’s closest.
Choosing the Right Gin
Gin is the star here, so it’s worth picking one you like. Floral gins like Empress 1908 (or any solid dry gin) blend well with lavender’s unique taste. And Empress Gin? It’ll turn your drink a natural purple, thanks to butterfly pea flower. Pretty cool, honestly.
Look for a gin with clear botanicals—juniper and a bit of citrus are perfect. That way, it won’t drown out the lavender or make things too sweet. Some gins are just too spicy or bold and, in my opinion, they kind of bulldoze the delicate floral notes.
If you want to play around, try a gin with gentle herbal undertones—just don’t let it fight with the lavender. And if you’re skipping the booze, leave out the gin and carry on with the rest of the recipe.
Quick Gin Comparison:
| Gin Type | Flavor Profile | Color Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Floral gin | Light, perfumed, citrus | May enhance color |
| London Dry gin | Bold, peppery, traditional | Clear/neutral |
| Empress 1908 | Floral, earthy, herbal | Purple hue |
Lavender Varieties and Flavors
Lavender is what gives this drink its signature scent and taste. You want culinary-grade dried lavender or a homemade lavender syrup—don’t just grab any old lavender, since not all of it’s edible. Lavandula angustifolia is a safe bet.
Making your own syrup is pretty easy: simmer dried, food-safe lavender with sugar and water, then strain. There are ready-made syrups out there too, even sugar-free ones. Start with about 0.75 oz per drink and adjust to taste—seriously, go easy at first because lavender can get strong or even a bit bitter if you overdo it.
For garnish, a sprig of fresh edible lavender or some edible flowers will boost the aroma without making it bitter. Keep it simple and let the lavender shine.
Ways to use lavender:
- Lavender simple syrup for sweetness and flavor
- Fresh lavender sprig for visual appeal
- Dried edible lavender for syrup infusions
Role of Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is what brightens up the whole drink and keeps the sweetness from getting out of hand. Always squeeze it fresh—bottled juice just doesn’t have the same punch. You’ll need about 0.75 oz per glass, but if you like things a little more tart, add a touch more. Just don’t let it take over.
Lemon also helps the cocktail feel even more refreshing and works with the club soda to give it that lively sparkle. For garnish, a lemon wheel or twist ties it all together and looks sharp.
Summary of lemon juice uses:
- Adds acidity to balance sweetness
- Lifts the floral and herbal flavors
- Provides garnish options with wheels or twists
Crafting Lavender Simple Syrup
Lavender simple syrup brings a soft, floral flavor to your cocktail. Making it at home? Super straightforward—you just need a pot and a few basic ingredients.
Classic Simple Syrup Method
Just mix equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan. Usually, 1 cup of each does the trick.
Warm it over medium heat and stir until the sugar vanishes. No need to let it boil for ages—once it’s clear, take it off the heat.
Let the syrup cool down before you use it. Pour it into a clean jar or bottle and stash it in the fridge. It’ll keep for about two weeks. Handy for all sorts of drinks, not just this one.
Simple Syrup at a Glance
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Water | 1 cup |
Infusing Lavender into Syrup
Once your sugar’s dissolved, toss in dried culinary lavender—about 1–2 tablespoons per cup of syrup is a good starting point.
Let the lavender steep in the warm syrup for 15–30 minutes. Taste it after 10 minutes, then every five minutes or so, until you like the flavor. It’s easy to go overboard, so err on the side of less if you’re unsure.
When you’re happy with it, strain out the flowers with a fine mesh strainer. Pour your lavender-infused syrup into a bottle and keep it in the fridge.
Label it and try to use it within a couple weeks for the best flavor. This syrup is what gives the Lavender Gin Fizz its special floral kick and gentle sweetness.
Mixing the Best Lavender Gin Fizz
A Lavender Gin Fizz is all about balancing those floral, citrus, and herbal flavors, with a creamy, foamy top if you go for the egg white. The right mixing steps and a little attention to presentation can turn this into the star of your gathering or special night in.
Mixing Techniques
Start by measuring out 1.5 oz premium dry gin, 0.75 oz lavender syrup, and 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice. Toss those in a cocktail shaker. For extra creaminess and foam, add 1 egg white or 1 oz aquafaba (if you want to skip the egg).
Give it a good dry shake (no ice) for about 15 seconds to build up that foam. Then, add ice and shake again until the shaker’s nice and cold.
Strain into a tall glass with fresh ice, top with club soda for that fizzy finish, and stir gently so you don’t lose the foam. That’s it. You’ll end up with a textured, balanced drink that looks and tastes like something from a pro bar—even if you’re just making it at home.
Serving and Presentation
When it’s time to pour, grab a tall glass—Collins glasses are perfect for showing off that lively fizz. If you’re feeling a bit fancy, toss on a lemon wheel or maybe an edible flower for a classic, almost whimsical touch. Some floral gins, like Empress, actually turn your Lavender Gin Fizz a light purple, which is honestly kind of mesmerizing.
Serve these right away, while the bubbles and foam are at their best. If you’re hosting brunch or a party, you can pre-mix the gin, syrup, and lemon juice in a pitcher, then build each drink with club soda as you go. This cocktail pairs nicely with light foods like salads or seafood—nothing too heavy.
For a non-alcoholic twist, just skip the gin and egg white, swap in lemonade, and follow the same serving steps. Still, don’t ignore the garnishes. A well-dressed Lavender Gin Fizz is inviting and honestly makes any picnic or gathering feel a bit more special.
RECIPE: Lavender Gin Fizz
The Lavender Gin Fizz is a breeze to make and brings a gentle floral note to your glass. Its creamy, bubbly finish really stands out at brunch or whenever you want to impress.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Premium dry gin | 1.5 oz |
| Lavender syrup | 0.75 oz |
| Fresh lemon juice | 0.75 oz |
| Club soda | To top |
| Ice | As needed |
| (Optional) Egg white | 1 |
| Lemon wheel/edible flowers | For garnish |
If you want to mix things up, try a floral gin like Empress. The egg white is what gives you that signature creamy foam, but if you’ve got allergies or just don’t like the idea, swap in 1 oz of aquafaba (yep, chickpea liquid—it works!).
Instructions
- Add gin, lavender syrup, and lemon juice to a cocktail shaker.
- If you’re after that creamy foam, toss in the egg white or aquafaba now.
- Give it a dry shake (no ice) for about 15 seconds if you’re using egg or aquafaba.
- Add ice and shake again until it’s nice and cold.
- Strain into a tall glass over ice.
- Top with club soda and give it a gentle stir.
- Finish with a lemon wheel or edible flowers for garnish.
Non-Alcoholic Option
Just skip the gin and egg white. Mix 0.75 oz lavender syrup, 0.75 oz lemon juice, and 2 oz lemonade over ice. Top with club soda, give it a stir, and garnish as usual.
For brunches or picnics, you can combine the gin, syrup, and lemon juice ahead of time. Add the club soda at the last minute so the fizz doesn’t disappear on you.
Creative Variations and Adaptations
There are all kinds of ways to play with a Lavender Gin Fizz, whether you want to go alcohol-free or swap in a different spirit. It’s easy to tweak this drink to suit your mood or the crowd.
Non-Alcoholic Lavender Fizz
If you’re skipping the booze, you can still get those floral and citrus notes. Just use extra lemonade or club soda instead of gin for a light, bubbly sipper. For kids’ parties or alcohol-free events, mix 0.75 oz lavender syrup, 0.75 oz lemon juice, and 2 oz lemonade over ice.
Top with club soda and garnish with a lemon wheel or a few edible flowers. You don’t need egg white, but if you want a foamy top, try adding 1 oz aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas). Shake it up well before pouring. It’s totally safe for kids and folks avoiding alcohol or eggs, and still feels a bit fancy.
Alternative Spirits and Flavors
Feel like changing things up? Swap the gin for vodka for a cleaner, more neutral base that lets the lavender shine. Tequila brings a gentle earthy note, while white rum adds a touch of sweetness.
Or, if you’re a gin fan, try one with extra herbal or floral notes for a different spin. You can even experiment with other herb-infused syrups—rosemary or mint are fun if you’re in the mood to tinker. Want more floral flavor? Add a splash of elderflower liqueur or St-Germain on top.
For looks, try garnishing with dried lavender, citrus peel, or a few fresh berries. Small changes like these keep things interesting and might just surprise your guests in the best way.
Perfect Pairings for a Lavender Gin Fizz
The Lavender Gin Fizz’s floral, zesty profile works best with lighter dishes and balanced sweets. Picking the right snack or dessert can really make those delicate flavors pop.
Cookies and Sweet Treats
Pairing this cocktail with the right cookie? Honestly, it’s a game-changer. Shortbread cookies are a classic—they’re buttery and subtle, so they don’t drown out the drink’s floral notes. Lemon sugar cookies are another favorite; their zing matches the lemon in your Fizz and brings a little extra brightness.
If you want something a bit more out there, try lavender or earl grey tea cookies. They echo the drink’s flavors and make the lavender stand out. Or go for French macarons—especially ones with lemon, vanilla, or lavender filling. They’re light, elegant, and just a little bit fancy.
Pairing ideas:
| Cookie | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Shortbread | Buttery, subtle, easy match |
| Lemon Sugar Cookie | Zesty citrus, matches cocktail |
| Earl Grey Cookie | Supports floral, gentle spice note |
| Lavender Macaron | Mirrors drink’s floral profile |
Savory Pairing Ideas
This drink is right at home with light, savory bites, especially at brunch or a picnic. Smoked salmon is a fantastic pairing—the salty, rich fish is such a good contrast to the cocktail’s fresh, bubbly vibe. Serve it on rye or pumpernickel, or even cucumber slices if you want something extra crisp.
Goat cheese is another winner. Its tangy, creamy flavor works so well with floral drinks, and if you add a little honey or fresh herbs, even better. Light salads with citrus vinaigrette, mixed greens, or edible flowers keep the spring theme going and add a nice crunch without weighing things down.
Try these savory options:
- Smoked salmon on cucumber rounds
- Goat cheese with crackers and a drizzle of honey
- Spring salad with lemon vinaigrette and edible flowers
- Grilled chicken skewers with lemon and herbs
Stick with lighter, savory bites to let your Lavender Gin Fizz shine—it’s all about balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Making a Lavender Gin Fizz is a fun way to enjoy floral flavors with a creamy, fizzy twist. You can swap ingredients or try easy tweaks for a non-alcoholic or just a different take.
What is a Lavender Gin Fizz?
A Lavender Gin Fizz is a floral twist on the classic Gin Fizz, made with gin, lemon juice, lavender syrup, egg white (optional for foam), and soda water. The addition of lavender imparts a fragrant, aromatic note that’s both refreshing and unique.
How do I make lavender syrup for this cocktail?
Combine equal parts sugar and water with dried or fresh culinary lavender buds, simmer until the sugar dissolves, then steep for 10–20 minutes before straining. Store the syrup in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Ready-made lavender syrups are also available and convenient.
What type of gin works best in a Lavender Gin Fizz?
A classic London Dry gin works well, but floral-forward gins like Hendrick’s or The Botanist can enhance the lavender notes. Choose a gin that complements, rather than overpowers, the floral flavors.
Is egg white necessary, and what does it do?
Egg white is optional but traditional in a Fizz, providing a silky texture and thick, creamy foam on top. If you prefer to skip egg white, the drink will still be delicious but less frothy.
How do I achieve a good foam on top?
Dry shake (shake ingredients without ice) first to emulsify the egg white, then shake again with ice to chill. This two-step process maximizes foam and gives the cocktail its signature texture.
Can I use aquafaba as a vegan substitute for egg white?
Yes, aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) can be used in equal measure as a vegan alternative. It provides a similar texture and foam without altering the flavor.
What’s the ideal ratio for a Lavender Gin Fizz?
A common recipe uses 2 oz gin, 1 oz lemon juice, 0.75 oz lavender syrup, 1 egg white (or 0.75 oz aquafaba), and soda water to top. Adjust syrup for sweetness and lemon juice for tartness to taste.
What’s the best way to incorporate lavender flavor without making the drink taste soapy?
Use lavender syrup sparingly and taste as you go, as lavender can quickly become overpowering. Start with a small amount and increase gradually until you reach the desired flavor.
How do I garnish a Lavender Gin Fizz?
Garnish with a sprig of fresh lavender, a lemon wheel, or edible flowers for a visually appealing and aromatic finish. These garnishes enhance both the look and the scent of the drink (source).
Can I batch Lavender Gin Fizzes for a party?
You can pre-mix the gin, lemon juice, and lavender syrup, but add the egg white and shake each serving individually for the best foam. Top with soda water just before serving to preserve effervescence.
What kind of soda water should I use?
Use plain, high-quality soda water or club soda for a crisp, clean finish. Avoid tonic water, as its bitterness can clash with the floral and citrus notes.
Can Sprite be used as a mixer in a lavender gin fizz drink?
Sure, Sprite works if you’re leaning toward a sweeter, citrusy fizz—definitely amps up the lemon-lime vibe. It’s not traditional, but hey, sometimes you just want something a little more playful.
If you go with Sprite, though, maybe pull back a bit on the syrup. Otherwise, it might end up way too sweet for most tastes.
How do I make a non-alcoholic version?
Omit the gin and use more lemon juice, lavender syrup, and soda water, plus egg white or aquafaba if desired for foam. This results in a refreshing, floral mocktail.
How do I prevent my drink from becoming too sweet or too tart?
Balance the lavender syrup and lemon juice to your taste, adding each gradually and tasting as you mix. Adjust the ratio until you achieve your preferred flavor.
How should I store leftover lavender syrup?
Store homemade lavender syrup in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Discard if it becomes cloudy or develops an off smell.
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