Weekends are for relaxation, and what better way to unwind than with a sophisticated yet simple cocktail? This Strawberry Hennessy recipe is perfect for Friday evenings, offering a delicious balance of sweet strawberries and the smooth warmth of Hennessy cognac. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for both seasoned mixologists and those just starting their cocktail journey. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, adding a touch of elegance to any gathering.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Hennessy VS Cognac (or your preferred cognac)
- 1 oz Fresh Strawberry Puree (see instructions below)
- ½ oz Fresh Lime Juice
- ½ oz Simple Syrup (recipe below)
- 2-3 Fresh Strawberries, for garnish
- Ice
For the Strawberry Puree:
- 1 cup Fresh Strawberries, hulled and sliced
For the Simple Syrup:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup water
Instructions:
Making the Strawberry Puree:
- Combine the sliced strawberries in a blender or food processor.
- Blend until completely smooth. Strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any seeds (optional, but recommended for a smoother cocktail).
Making the Simple Syrup:
- In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Let cool completely before using. Store any leftover simple syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Making the Strawberry Hennessy Cocktail:
- Combine the Hennessy cognac, strawberry puree, lime juice, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Shake well until thoroughly chilled (about 15-20 seconds).
- Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
- Garnish with fresh strawberries.
Tips for the Best Strawberry Hennessy:
- Use ripe strawberries: The flavor of the cocktail relies heavily on the quality of the strawberries. Choose ripe, fragrant strawberries for the best results.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cocktail, reduce the amount of simple syrup. Conversely, add more if you like it sweeter.
- Freshly squeezed juice is best: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a brightness that bottled juice cannot replicate.
- Chill your glassware: Chilling your glasses beforehand will help keep your cocktail cold for longer.
Variations:
- Spicy Strawberry Hennessy: Add a few slices of jalapeño to the shaker for a spicy kick.
- Strawberry Basil Hennessy: Muddle a few fresh basil leaves with the strawberries before blending for an herbaceous twist.
- Sparkling Strawberry Hennessy: Top with a splash of sparkling wine or club soda for a lighter, bubbly version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
- Sugar: Approximately 15-20g
This Strawberry Hennessy recipe is perfect for those looking for delicious dishes and healthy meals that are easy to make. It's a delightful homemade cooking experience that will impress your friends and family. Enjoy responsibly!