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The Russian Blue Moon delivers a wow factor from the first glance thanks to its striking blue color and smooth, floral-citrus mix. It mixes vodka, blue curaçao, and crème de violette for a drink that stands out, smells amazing, and goes down easy. If you’re looking for something different and fun, this one’s a crowd-pleaser every time you serve it up.
This drink became my favorite after mixing it up on a lazy warm night with friends. Now, whenever I want to wow folks and relax more, this is my go-to for hanging out and showing off just a little.
Vibrant Ingredients
- Ice cubes: Chills the drink and mixes things up fast. Toss in a bunch for frosty results.
- Simple syrup: Brings enough sweetness to tie it all together. DIY syrup is the way to go for a fresh, crisp finish.
- Fresh lemon juice: Gives just the right tart snap. Always grab a real lemon and squeeze it fresh for max flavor.
- Crème de violette: Adds sweet perfume and sets this drink apart. Real deal crème de violette shines here; skip anything fake.
- Blue curaçao: Turns everything bold blue and brightens with a gentle orange kick. Stick with good stuff for that real pop.
- Vodka: Smooths everything out and brings the buzz. Pick a clean vodka to make the flavors shine.
Easy Steps
- Garnish and Serve:
- Add a cherry or twist of lemon on top if you want to get fancy. Drink it right away and soak in those gorgeous colors.
- Strain Into Glass:
- Pour the finished cocktail into a chilled martini or coupe glass. Make sure the glass is icy too for the prettiest look.
- Seal and Shake:
- Put the lid on your shaker and give it a wild shake—seriously go hard for about 15 seconds. That’s how you get everything cold and blended together just right.
- Add Simple Syrup:
- Mix in a splash (about a quarter ounce) of simple syrup. Homemade or bottled is fine, just make sure the sweetness hits right for you.
- Add Lemon Juice:
- Pour in a quarter ounce of fresh lemon juice. Doing it now keeps the balance just right and lets the citrusy vibe shine.
- Add Crème de Violette:
- Splash in half an ounce of crème de violette. This is the magic for that floral kick.
- Add Blue Curacao:
- Pour in half an ounce of blue curaçao. This will make the drink really pop with color and orange flavor.
- Add the Vodka:
- Measure out an ounce and a half of vodka and pour it over the ice. This is your boozy base.
- Fill the Shaker with Ice:
- Kick things off by filling your cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes. Makes everything super chilly and well mixed.
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Blue is my jam, so I love any excuse to put it in a glass! My niece always wants the non-boozy version with blueberry syrup. So for me, mixing this up is all about family memories and laughs around the table.
Keeping It Fresh
This one tastes best ice-cold and right after mixing. But you can always blend the alcohol and liqueurs ahead and stash in the fridge. Just finish up with fresh lemon juice and syrup when you’re about to serve so everything’s crisp and colorful.
Swaps and Switches
If crème de violette’s nowhere to be found, elderflower liqueur steps in with a flowery twist—even if the color changes. Got no blue curaçao? Regular triple sec works, but you’ll lose that awesome electric blue vibe.
Fun Ways to Serve
The Russian Blue Moon looks killer at happy hour or any party. Pour into a frosty glass and throw on a lemon twist for max style points. A little bowl of salty snacks on the side? Perfect match!
Where It Comes From
Back in the day, blue cocktails got big at tiki bars and flashy lounges. This drink keeps that playful history with its wild color, but gives it a Euro twist thanks to the floral liqueur—mixing old-school cool with a modern edge.
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Recipe FAQs
- → Which vodka gives the best Blue Moon mix?
Go for a clean, fancy vodka if you want a smooth taste. Skip heavy flavors so all the other parts stand out more.
- → Any good stand-ins for crème de violette?
No violette handy? Swap in a berry or floral liqueur. It might taste and look a little different, but it'll still hit the spot.
- → Why bother with fresh lemon juice?
Squeezing your own lemon just makes the drink pop more and keeps it from getting too sugary. Bottled stuff just isn't as bright.
- → What makes the drink such a crazy blue?
It's all about blue curaçao shaken up with violette. Toss in clear ice and stir it up for that full-on glow.
- → Got a good garnish idea for this one?
Lemon peel keeps things zesty, while a cherry gives a sweet kick and looks awesome against the blue.
- → How do I tone down or pump up the sweetness?
Easy—you just add less or more simple syrup as you mix. Try a little at a time till you get it just how you like it.