If you’re searching for your next signature sip, this lychee martini recipe is the perfect drink— refreshing, and just sweet enough. Inspired by a cocktail I had a few years ago in NYC , this version uses ingredients you can find at most grocery stores or Asian markets.

This simple 3 ingredient cocktail can be modified by adding in a fruit simple syrup, like our Blackberry Simple Syrup, Blueberry, or Raspberry Simple Syrup!

💖 Why You’ll Love This Lychee Martini

1. A Flavor Like No Other
The flavor of lychee is lightly sweet, floral, and unlike any other Asian fruit—and it is perfect mixed with lemon to balance the sweetness.

2. A Classic with a Twist
While rooted in the classic cocktail world, this drink is anything but ordinary. Think refreshing lemon drop meets sweet almost pear-like essence.

3. Bar-Quality at Home
This cocktail is so easy, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it last week. It’s become our first choice for a delicious cocktail when entertaining—or just winding down.

🍸 Simple Lychee Martini Recipe

Ingredients:

4 whole lychees (from a can of lychees)
1.5 oz lychee syrup (from the can of fruit)
2 oz vodka (use premium vodka like Grey Goose for the ultimate experience)
Juice of 1 lemon
Ice cubes
3 Lychees for garnish

Optional Upgrades:

Splash of elderflower liqueur like St. Germain
Splash of Cointreau
Flavored simple syrup, such as raspberry simple syrup, blueberry simple syrup, or blackberry simple syrup

Instructions:

Muddle the lychee fruit in a cocktail shaker to release that delicate floral note and juicy flavor.
Add the lychee syrup, vodka, citrus juice, and ice cubes.
Shake vigorously for 15 seconds to chill.
Strain into a chilled martini glass—a classic martini glass gives it that timeless touch.
Garnish with a whole lychee on a cocktail pick.

🍹 Lychee Martini Mocktail (Non-Alcoholic)

Ingredients:

4 whole lychees (canned or fresh)
1.5 oz lychee syrup (from a can of lychees)
1 oz lychee juice or lychee puree
1 oz lime juice or lemon juice
1–2 oz club soda or sparkling water
Ice cubes
3 Lychees for garnish

Instructions:

In a cocktail shaker, muddle the lychee fruit.
Add the lychee syrup, lime or lemon juice, lychee juice, and ice cubes.
Shake well until chilled.
Strain into a chilled martini glass.
Top with a splash of sparkling water or club soda for a bubbly lift.
Garnish with a whole lychee on a cocktail pick or a mint sprig.

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Version:

All the tropical flavor, zero alcohol.
Still delivers that lush flavor of lychee—sweet, floral, and refreshing.
Kid-friendly and party-approved.
Perfect for baby showers, brunches, or just a warm day when you want something fancy.
Easy to make with canned or fresh ingredients.
A quick trip to your local grocery store or Asian markets is all it takes.

Cheers to your new favorite lychee cocktail! 🍸🌸

Lychee martini with 3 lychees as garnish

Here’s a quick guide to different types of martini glasses you can use for serving an apple cider martini, plus a tip on how to chill them to keep your cocktail refreshingly cold.

1. Classic Martini Glass

Description: This is the iconic, V-shaped martini glass that adds a touch of elegance to any cocktail. Its wide rim makes it perfect for showcasing garnishes like a cinnamon stick or apple slice.
Chill Tip: Place the empty glass in the freezer for 15–30 minutes before preparing the martini. This ensures a frosty chill that keeps your drink cold longer.

2. Coupe Glass

Description: A coupe glass has a rounded, shallow bowl and vintage appeal. It’s great for showcasing cocktails and has a slightly smaller rim, which helps contain the aroma of the apple cider.
Chill Tip: Pop it into the freezer, or swirl ice and water in the glass for a minute before emptying it out.

3. Stemless Martini Glass

Description: This glass gives a modern twist to the classic martini shape by removing the stem. It’s less likely to tip and works well for casual gatherings.
Chill Tip: Keep these in the freezer until ready to serve, as stemless glasses warm up faster without the stem.

4. Nick and Nora Glass

Description: With its rounded bowl and sleek design, the Nick and Nora glass is a refined choice for cocktails. Its narrower mouth keeps aromas locked in, enhancing each sip.
Chill Tip: Place it in the freezer, or fill it with ice water while preparing your cocktail to keep it cool.

5. Mason Jar (for a Rustic Touch)

Description: A mason jar offers a fun, rustic presentation perfect for autumn and cozy gatherings. This unconventional choice also holds a bit more, great for those who prefer a larger pour.
Chill Tip: Freeze the mason jar directly, or fill it with ice water for a couple of minutes, then empty before serving.

Extra Tips on Chilling Glasses:

Quick Ice Bath: If you’re short on freezer space, fill the glass with ice and water, let it sit for a couple of minutes, then discard the ice before pouring in your cocktail.
Avoid Frosting the Rim: To keep garnishes and rim toppings (like cinnamon sugar) dry, dip the rim in the desired garnish right after chilling.