๐ฅ Introduction: A Summer Memory in a Glass
It was the middle of July, and the sun was doing what it does best โ making everything feel like a slow-roasted peach. I had friends coming over for a casual backyard brunch, and while the playlist was already fire, I knew the drinks had to be next-level refreshing. I wanted something fruity, fizzy, and just classy enough to make everyone feel a little bougie โ but not so complicated that Iโd spend the whole morning playing bartender.
Thatโs when I discovered the raspberry limoncello spritz.
๐โจ Just the name felt like a vacation in a glass. I already loved the tangy punch of limoncello and always had raspberries in the fridge. With a splash of chilled prosecco and a few cubes of ice, this bubbly beauty came to life. The colors were stunning โ golden lemon with vibrant red swirls โ and the flavor? Light, citrusy, sweet with a hint of tartness from the raspberries, and that unmistakable sparkle from the prosecco.
Since then, the raspberry limoncello spritz has been my go-to for everything from Sunday brunches and bridal showers to solo afternoons spent with a book on the patio. It’s easy to make, ridiculously pretty, and always impresses โ even though it takes under five minutes to throw together.
In this ultimate guide, Iโll show you exactly how to make your own, explore creative twists, answer common questions, and share serving tips thatโll turn your next gathering into a sun-drenched Italian moment. Whether youโre a cocktail newbie or just looking for your next signature drink, this spritz might just be your new obsession. ๐
Table of Contents
๐ธ What Is a Raspberry Limoncello Spritz?
If summer had a signature cocktail, the raspberry limoncello spritz would be a top contender. Itโs a refreshing, sparkling drink made with just a few ingredientsโlimoncello, prosecco, and fresh raspberriesโand it delivers that perfect mix of zesty, fruity, and bubbly.
Think of it as the playful cousin of the classic Aperol Spritz. Instead of bitter orange notes, this version is all about vibrant citrus and berry sweetness. The combination of Italian lemon liqueur (limoncello) and bright raspberries brings a burst of sunshine to your glass, while the prosecco adds a light, effervescent finish that makes every sip feel celebratory. ๐พโจ
Hereโs why itโs loved:
- Itโs beautifully layeredโgolden and pink, garnished with berries or citrus slices.
- Itโs easy to makeโyou donโt need a shaker or fancy tools.
- Itโs crowd-pleasingโperfect for brunch, parties, or a sunny afternoon alone.
Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, the raspberry limoncello spritz is a no-fuss, high-reward drink thatโs as pretty as it is delicious. One sip and you’ll feel like youโve been transported straight to a lemon grove on the Amalfi Coast. ๐ฎ๐น๐ฟ
๐ Core Ingredients Breakdown
The beauty of the raspberry limoncello spritz is its simplicity. With just a few quality ingredients, you can create a cocktail that looks stunning, tastes vibrant, and feels like summer in a glass. Hereโs what youโll need:
๐ก Limoncello
A bright, sweet Italian lemon liqueur.
- Adds the signature citrus flavor
- Best served ice cold
- Popular brands: Pallini, Luxardo, Caravella
๐ฅ Prosecco
A dry, sparkling white wine from Italy.
- Adds lightness and bubbles
- Choose extra dry or brut for balance
- Substitute with Cava or Champagne if needed
โค๏ธ Raspberries
The sweet, tart fruit that brings color and flavor.
- Fresh is best, but frozen works too
- Can be muddled or simply added whole
- Optional: raspberry liqueur for extra berry punch
๐ง Sparkling Water (Optional)
Used to lighten the drink or stretch it out for lower alcohol content.
- Use plain or raspberry-flavored soda water
- Adds fizz without more sweetness
โ๏ธ Ice & Garnishes
- Ice cubes keep the drink crisp and cold
- Lemon wheels, fresh mint, or skewered raspberries make beautiful, aromatic garnishes
- A sugared rim adds elegance for special occasions
Every ingredient in a raspberry limoncello spritz serves a purposeโbalancing sweet, tart, and bubbly for a cocktail thatโs both refreshing and irresistible.
๐น How to Make a Raspberry Limoncello Spritz
PrintRaspberry Limoncello Spritz
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
The raspberry limoncello spritz is a sparkling, citrusy cocktail that blends sweet raspberries, zesty limoncello, and bubbly prosecco. Itโs a refreshing, gorgeous drink perfect for brunch, garden parties, or warm evenings. Simple, elegant, and always a hit!
Ingredients
- 3 oz prosecco (chilled)
- 2 oz limoncello (chilled)
- 1 oz sparkling water (optional)
- 5โ6 fresh raspberries
- Ice cubes
- Garnish: lemon slice, mint sprig, or raspberries
Instructions
- Fill a wine glass with ice.
- Add raspberries (muddle gently for more flavor if desired).
- Pour in limoncello.
- Top with prosecco.
- Optional: add sparkling water to lighten.
- Garnish with lemon, mint, or more raspberries.
- Serve immediately while cold and bubbly.
Notes
- Chill ingredients for max refreshment
- Use frozen raspberries as mini ice cubes
- Adjust sweetness by using dry prosecco or lemon juice
- Great for batchingโjust add prosecco last when serving
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Drink / Cocktail
- Method: Stirred / Built in glass
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 8mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
This cocktail looks fancy, tastes incredible, and takes just a few minutes to pull together. Whether youโre mixing for one or prepping a batch for guests, the raspberry limoncello spritz is the definition of simple elegance.
โจ Ingredients
- 3 oz Prosecco (chilled)
- 2 oz Limoncello (chilled)
- 1 oz sparkling water or soda water (optional)
- 5โ6 fresh raspberries
- Ice cubes
- Garnish: lemon slice, mint sprig, or extra raspberries
๐ Tip: Chill all ingredients in advance for the most refreshing flavor.
๐ง Instructions
- Fill your glass with ice
- A large wine glass or spritz glass works best.
- Fill about ยพ full with fresh ice to keep the drink icy without watering it down.
- Add raspberries
- Drop 5โ6 raspberries into the glass.
- Optionally, gently muddle them for a burst of berry flavor.
- Pour in the limoncello
- Add 2 oz of cold limoncello directly over the ice.
- Itโll mix slightly with the raspberries and infuse the base with lemon.
- Top with Prosecco
- Pour in 3 oz of prosecco slowly to preserve the bubbles.
- Watch the color swirl beautifully with the berries.
- Optional: Add sparkling water
- If you want to lighten the alcohol or stretch the drink, add 1 oz of sparkling water.
- Garnish and serve
- Add a lemon wheel to the rim, toss in a mint sprig, or skewer a raspberry or two on a cocktail pick.
This drink is best enjoyed immediately, while the bubbles are lively and the ice keeps everything crisp and cool. Itโs perfect for sipping under the sun, toasting with friends, or elevating your next brunch at home.
๐ Variations Youโll Love
One of the best things about the raspberry limoncello spritz is how flexible it is. With a few small changes, you can create a whole new drink that still delivers that same vibrant, bubbly charm.
๐ Frozen Raspberry Limoncello Spritz
Turn this into a slushy summer treat!
- Blend frozen raspberries, limoncello, ice, and a splash of lemon juice
- Top with a bit of prosecco right before serving
- Serve in a coupe glass for extra flair
๐ง Mocktail Version (Non-Alcoholic)
For a refreshing, zero-proof version:
- Use limoncello syrup (non-alcoholic) or lemon soda
- Add raspberry sparkling water or berry kombucha
- Garnish with fresh fruit and mint โ no one will miss the booze!
๐ Strawberry Limoncello Spritz
Sweet and fragrant โ great for spring.
- Swap raspberries for sliced strawberries
- Add a splash of strawberry liqueur or muddle berries for extra depth
- Pair with a basil garnish for a unique twist
๐ท Raspberry Rosรฉ Spritz
If proseccoโs not your thing:
- Use chilled dry rosรฉ wine instead of prosecco
- Add lemon soda for bubbles
- A gorgeous pink drink with a berry-citrus punch
๐ Holiday Twist: Cranberry Limoncello Spritz
A winter-ready version with a festive feel:
- Use cranberry juice and frozen cranberries
- Add a sprig of rosemary and a sugared rim
- Great for Thanksgiving or Christmas brunch
Whether youโre feeling festive, fruity, or alcohol-free, these variations offer a fun, flavorful way to keep the raspberry limoncello spritz exciting every time you make it.
โ๏ธ Best Ratios for Flavor Balance
Getting the right ratio is key to making a raspberry limoncello spritz thatโs not only delicious but balanced in sweetness, strength, and sparkle.
Hereโs a simple base ratio to follow:
๐ฅ The Classic Spritz Formula
3:2:1 Ratio
- 3 parts prosecco
- 2 parts limoncello
- 1 part sparkling water (optional but recommended)
This combo creates a lightly boozy, bubbly drink with a sweet citrus edge and refreshing finish.
๐ When to Adjust the Ratio
โ Want it lighter?
- Use more sparkling water or ice.
- Cut the limoncello to 1.5 parts for a lower-alcohol version.
โ Want it stronger?
- Skip the sparkling water altogether.
- Use a prosecco with a higher ABV (11โ12%).
โ Too sweet?
- Choose extra dry prosecco
- Add a splash of lemon juice to bring in some tartness
๐ก Bartender Tip
Chill your prosecco and limoncello ahead of time. Using cold ingredients means you donโt have to rely on too much ice, which dilutes the flavor.
Once you lock in your favorite ratio, you can scale it up for a party or tweak it based on the vibe โ brunch, beach, or a quiet afternoon on the patio.
๐ธ Serving & Presentation Tips
A raspberry limoncello spritz doesnโt just taste like summerโit looks like it, too. With just a little effort, you can turn this simple cocktail into a visual showstopper thatโs perfect for Instagram, parties, or impressing your brunch crew.
๐ท Choose the Right Glass
- Wine glass โ The classic spritz look: wide enough for ice and garnishes
- Spritz glass โ Tall, elegant, and ideal for showcasing layers
- Coupe or martini glass โ Best for frozen or muddled versions (no ice)
๐ง Fill your glass ยพ with ice before pouring. It keeps the drink chilled and creates that sparkling, layered effect.
๐ Garnish Ideas That Pop
- Lemon wheels โ Slice thin and float inside or place on the rim
- Fresh raspberries โ Skewer a few on a cocktail pick or let them float naturally
- Mint sprigs โ Adds a fresh aroma and pop of green
- Edible flowers โ Optional, but stunning for bridal showers or styled events
๐ฅ Presentation Tips for Guests
- Serve with gold or wooden cocktail picks for raspberries
- Rim the glass with sugar and lemon zest for a fancier finish
- Use clear ice cubes for a professional look (they melt slower, too!)
๐พ Hosting Hack
Pre-mix limoncello and raspberries in a large pitcher. Then top each glass with prosecco right before serving so the bubbles stay fresh and fizzy.
With a few thoughtful touches, your raspberry limoncello spritz goes from โnice drinkโ to โwow, what is this?โ in seconds.
๐ The Limoncello Love Affair
Every great cocktail has that one unforgettable ingredient that makes it shine โ and for the raspberry limoncello spritz, that ingredient is undeniably limoncello. ๐
Made from the peels of fresh lemons (usually from the Amalfi Coast or Sorrento), limoncello is a sweet, lemony Italian liqueur thatโs been enjoyed for centuries โ often as a chilled after-dinner drink known as a digestivo.
๐ฎ๐น A Little Italian History
- Limoncello originated in Southern Italy, where lemons grow large and fragrant under the Mediterranean sun.
- Traditionally, families made their own limoncello in small batches using just lemon zest, alcohol, sugar, and water.
- Today, itโs a symbol of Italian hospitality and sunshine, found in everything from desserts to cocktails.
๐ Why It Works in a Spritz
- Bright & zesty: Adds a strong lemon punch that pairs beautifully with sweet raspberries.
- Smooth & sweet: Balances tart fruit and dry prosecco.
- Versatile: Pairs well with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic ingredients.
๐ Recommended Limoncello Brands
- Pallini Limoncello โ Smooth, sweet, and widely available
- Luxardo Limoncello โ More traditional and slightly herbal
- Caravella โ A solid middle-ground option for cocktails
- Or go homemade if youโre adventurous!
๐ก Pro Tip: Store your limoncello in the freezer for a thick, syrupy texture and extra chill when mixing your spritz.
Whether youโre sipping it solo or building the perfect cocktail, limoncello brings a taste of Italy to your glass โ one citrusy swirl at a time.
โค๏ธ Raspberries in Cocktails: Sweet, Tart, and Totally Perfect
If limoncello is the soul of this cocktail, raspberries are the heart. Their deep red color, delicate sweetness, and tangy brightness make them the perfect partner for the citrus-forward kick of limoncello.
In the raspberry limoncello spritz, they do more than just sit pretty โ they bring balance, texture, and a juicy pop of berry flavor in every sip.
๐ Why Raspberries Work So Well
- Tart + Sweet: Their natural tartness cuts through the sweetness of limoncello and prosecco.
- Color Pop: Just a few raspberries turn the drink from pale yellow to a stunning blush-pink.
- Mild Flavor: They donโt overpower other ingredients, making them ideal for light, sparkling cocktails.
๐ง Fresh vs. Frozen Raspberries
Fresh raspberries
- Best for garnish and visual appeal
- Hold their shape in the glass
- Available most of the year
Frozen raspberries
- Great for muddling or blending
- Act like mini ice cubes without watering down the drink
- Ideal for slushy or frozen versions
๐ก Pro Tip: For a stronger berry flavor, gently muddle a few raspberries in the bottom of the glass before adding the limoncello.
๐ฅ Bonus Flavor Boosts
- Add a splash of raspberry liqueur (like Chambord)
- Drop in raspberry simple syrup for a sweeter twist
- Try raspberry soda water instead of plain sparkling water for an extra fruity layer
Whether whole, crushed, frozen, or infused, raspberries add a fresh and festive personality to your raspberry limoncello spritz โ and they look good doing it.
๐ง Hosting Ideas: When to Serve a Raspberry Limoncello Spritz
Some drinks are made for happy hour. Others are made for moments. The raspberry limoncello spritz falls into the second category โ it’s the kind of cocktail that lights up a table, starts conversations, and makes even a casual afternoon feel like a celebration. ๐ฅ๐
Whether youโre planning a backyard bash or a chill weekend brunch, this drink fits right in โ fruity, fizzy, elegant, and effortlessly Instagrammable.
๐ธ Brunch with Friends
The sweet citrus and berry notes make it a perfect match for brunch fare like:
- Lemon ricotta pancakes
- Avocado toast with smoked salmon
- Fresh fruit salads or charcuterie boards
- Mini quiches or baked brie
Serve in large wine glasses with lemon wheels and raspberry skewers for extra flair.
๐ Bridal & Baby Showers
Itโs pretty, pink, and easy to batch โ perfect for:
- Signature drink bars
- Mimosa alternatives
- Personalized drink tags or themed cups
- Garnishes with edible flowers or rosemary sprigs
Bonus: The non-alcoholic version is just as lovely for guests who are expecting or not drinking.
โ๏ธ Pool Parties & Summer BBQs
When the sunโs out, spritzes shine.
- Serve over crushed ice for a slushy feel
- Use frozen raspberries as mini ice cubes
- Set up a DIY spritz station with limoncello, prosecco, fresh berries, and herbs
Pair with grilled seafood, caprese skewers, or citrus-marinated chicken.
๐ Holiday Hosting
Surprisingly, this summery spritz adapts beautifully for winter:
- Swap raspberries for cranberries
- Add a sprig of rosemary for a Christmas vibe
- Rim glasses with sugar and lemon zest
No matter the occasion, the raspberry limoncello spritz brings color, sparkle, and a whole lot of joy to your table โ no bartender skills required.
๐ง Alcohol-Free Alternatives
Whether you’re hosting a mixed crowd, cutting back on alcohol, or simply want a refreshing midday sip, you can still enjoy the beauty and flavor of a raspberry limoncello spritz โ no booze required. ๐๐
The key is to replace the limoncello and prosecco with ingredients that bring citrus brightness, bubbly texture, and berry sweetness, without sacrificing that elevated spritz vibe.
๐ Option 1: Limoncello Syrup + Sparkling Water
This is the closest match to the original โ minus the alcohol.
Youโll need:
- 2 oz non-alcoholic limoncello syrup or lemon simple syrup
- 1 oz raspberry simple syrup or a few muddled raspberries
- 3 oz sparkling water (plain or raspberry-flavored)
- Ice, lemon slice, and mint for garnish
๐ง Tip: Chill all your ingredients so you donโt have to over-ice and dilute the flavor.
๐ Option 2: Raspberry Kombucha Mocktail
For a tangy, probiotic twist:
- 3 oz raspberry kombucha
- 2 oz lemonade or lemon soda
- Garnish with fresh raspberries and a lemon wedge
This version has a nice fizz and an adult flavor profile โ ideal for non-drinkers who still want something special in their glass.
๐พ Option 3: Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Wine
There are several great NA prosecco-style wines now available:
- Use 3 oz of non-alcoholic sparkling wine
- Add 2 oz of lemon syrup or citrus soda
- Serve with raspberry garnish and a mint sprig
Whether you’re staying sober, pacing yourself at a party, or making something kid-friendly, these mocktail versions prove that the raspberry limoncello spritz can be all style and all flavor โ with or without the spirits.
๐ Nutrition Info & Cocktail Strength
The raspberry limoncello spritz may look light and elegant, but it still packs a little punch โ especially thanks to the limoncello, which is stronger than it tastes. Hereโs a breakdown of what youโre sipping, from calories to alcohol content.
โ๏ธ Estimated Nutrition (Per 1 serving)
- Calories: 170โ200 kcal
- Total Carbohydrates: 17โ20g
- Sugar: 12โ15g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Fiber: ~1g (from raspberries)
- Alcohol by Volume (ABV): ~10โ12%
(Varies based on ratio and brand of limoncello/prosecco)
๐ธ How Strong Is It?
A standard raspberry limoncello spritz is considered a moderate-strength cocktail:
- Limoncello: Typically 25โ30% ABV
- Prosecco: Typically 11โ12% ABV
- Combined (with sparkling water): ~10% ABV in the final drink
๐ก Tip: To lower the alcohol, use more sparkling water or ice, and reduce the limoncello by half.
๐ Want It Lighter?
- Use low-alcohol prosecco
- Replace some limoncello with lemon juice or lemon soda
- Skip the liqueur entirely and go with a mocktail version
This lets you enjoy the citrusy sparkle without overdoing the booze or sugar.
๐ Storage, Pre-Batching & Freshness Tips
Planning a party or prepping drinks ahead of time? The raspberry limoncello spritz is flexible and easy to scale โ but timing matters, especially when bubbles are involved. ๐ฅโณ
Hereโs how to keep things crisp and crowd-ready without losing flavor or fizz.
๐ง Can I Make This Cocktail Ahead of Time?
Yes โ with one big rule:
๐ Do NOT add the prosecco until just before serving.
Hereโs how to pre-batch successfully:
- In a pitcher, mix:
- Limoncello
- Raspberries (muddled or whole)
- Optional: a little lemon juice or raspberry syrup
- Store covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours
- Right before serving, pour into glasses with ice and top with cold prosecco
๐งผ How Long Does It Stay Fresh?
- Mixed with prosecco: Best served immediately โ bubbles fade after 20โ30 minutes
- Without prosecco: Base mix (limoncello + berries) lasts up to 1 day chilled
๐ก Tip: Store garnishes like mint or lemon wheels separately to keep them looking fresh.
โ๏ธ Should I Chill the Ingredients?
Absolutely. Always chill:
- Prosecco
- Limoncello
- Sparkling water (if using)
Cold ingredients = less melting ice = stronger, longer-lasting flavor.
๐ฆ Can I Freeze It?
Yes โ for a frozen spritz, blend:
- Frozen raspberries
- Limoncello
- Ice
Then top with prosecco or sparkling soda in the glass. This makes a great slushy-style cocktail for hot days.
With a few smart storage tips, your raspberry limoncello spritz can go from โjust madeโ to โperfectly preparedโ โ and still taste amazing.
๐ฏ Final Thoughts: Why the Raspberry Limoncello Spritz Just Works
Some drinks are trendy. Others are timeless. The raspberry limoncello spritz manages to be both โ itโs light and playful, yet sophisticated enough to serve at any gathering. ๐โจ
With its balance of sweet raspberries, zesty limoncello, and sparkling prosecco, this cocktail feels like a little celebration in a glass. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and beautiful to look at โ whether youโre sipping it at brunch, passing it around a garden party, or enjoying a quiet sunset on your patio.
You donโt need to be a mixologist to make it. Just a handful of ingredients, a chilled glass, and a little creativity is all it takes to whip up a drink thatโs:
- Refreshing
- Elegant
- Crowd-pleasing
- And just the right amount of boozy
If you love seasonal cocktails like this, you might also enjoy this tahini iced coffee recipe โ itโs creamy, nutty, and just as unexpected as it is refreshing.
For more warm-weather cocktail inspiration beyond spritzes, check out Allrecipes’ list of summer drinks โ from tropical coolers to frozen faves, itโs a great place to explore new flavors and ideas.
So next time youโre craving something bright, bubbly, and unforgettable, remember this recipe. One sip, and youโll understand why the raspberry limoncello spritz deserves a spot in your go-to cocktail rotation. ๐๐๐ฅ
โ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When it comes to the raspberry limoncello spritz, people are asking all the right questions. Whether you’re mixing for the first time or trying to perfect your pour, these answers cover the essentials and a few fun extras.
What alcohol is in a raspberry limoncello spritz?
The main alcohols are limoncello, an Italian lemon liqueur, and prosecco, a dry sparkling wine. Together, they create a bright, citrusy, and lightly sweet cocktail. You can also add a splash of sparkling water to balance out the strength and sweetness.
Can I use frozen raspberries in a spritz?
Yes! Frozen raspberries are great โ they act like mini ice cubes and slowly release flavor as they thaw. Theyโre perfect if you want a colder drink without watering it down too quickly.
Whatโs the best prosecco for a raspberry limoncello spritz?
Look for a brut or extra dry prosecco. These types are less sweet and balance out the natural sweetness of the limoncello. Popular, affordable options include La Marca, Mionetto, and Cupcake.
How do I make a raspberry limoncello spritz less sweet?
Use dry prosecco
Add a splash of lemon juice
Skip the raspberry syrup or muddle berries lightly
Use sparkling water instead of lemon soda
Can I make a raspberry limoncello spritz without prosecco?
Absolutely! You can substitute with:
Dry white wine
Rosรฉ
Or for a non-alcoholic option: sparkling white grape juice or lemon soda
Is limoncello a strong alcohol?
Yes, limoncello usually ranges between 25%โ30% ABV (alcohol by volume). It’s sweet and smooth, which can make it feel less strong โ so be mindful when pouring!
Can I pre-make a spritz for a party?
Yes, but with one important rule: donโt add the prosecco until serving.
Mix limoncello and raspberries ahead of time
Chill in a pitcher
Top off each glass with fresh prosecco and garnish just before serving to keep the fizz fresh