Easy Bellini Cocktail: A Simple Recipe for a Refreshing Summer Drink

Easy Bellini Cocktail is a delightful and refreshing drink that has become a staple in many social gatherings and brunches. Originating from the vibrant city of Venice, Italy, this cocktail was created in the 1940s by the renowned bartender Giuseppe Cipriani at Harry’s Bar. The combination of ripe peaches and sparkling wine not only offers a taste of summer but also embodies the spirit of Italian hospitality. What I love most about the Easy Bellini Cocktail is its perfect balance of sweetness and effervescence, making it an ideal choice for celebrations or a relaxing afternoon. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, this cocktail is not only delicious but also incredibly convenient, allowing anyone to impress their guests with minimal effort. Join me as we explore the delightful world of the Easy Bellini Cocktail!

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe peaches (or 1 cup of peach puree)
• 1 tablespoon of sugar (optional, depending on the sweetness of the peaches)
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• 1 bottle of Prosecco (750ml)
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Peach Puree

To start off, we need to prepare the peach puree, which is the heart of our Bellini cocktail. If you have fresh peaches, they will give the best flavor, but you can also use store-bought peach puree if you’re in a pinch.

1. Begin by washing the peaches thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or pesticides.
2. Next, cut the peaches in half and remove the pit. If you prefer, you can peel the peaches, but I like to leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients.
3. Chop the peach halves into smaller pieces to make blending easier.
4. Place the chopped peaches in a blender or food processor. If you’re using sugar, add it now. The sugar is optional, depending on how sweet your peaches are.
5. Add the tablespoon of lemon juice to the blender. This will help enhance the flavor and prevent the puree from browning.
6. Blend the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend it for a shorter time.
7. Once blended, taste the puree. If it needs more sweetness, feel free to add a little more sugar and blend again.
8. Transfer the peach puree to a bowl or a measuring cup and set it aside. You can refrigerate it for up to a day if you’re preparing in advance.

Mixing the Bellini

Now that we have our delicious peach puree ready, it’s time to mix our Bellini cocktail. This part is super easy and quick!

1. Take a champagne flute or a cocktail glass of your choice. I love using tall, elegant glasses for a fancy touch.
2. Pour about 2 tablespoons of the peach puree into the bottom of the glass. You can adjust the amount based on how fruity you want your cocktail to be.
3. Next, slowly pour the Prosecco into the glass. It’s important to pour it gently to avoid too much fizz and overflow. I like to tilt the glass slightly while pouring to help with this.
4. As you pour, watch the bubbles rise. The Prosecco will mix with the peach puree, creating a beautiful gradient effect.
5. Once you’ve added the desired amount of Prosecco (usually about 4-6 ounces), give the drink a gentle stir with a long spoon to combine the puree and the sparkling wine.
6. For an extra touch, you can garnish your Bellini with a fresh mint leaf on top. It adds a lovely aroma and a pop of color!

Serving Suggestions

Your Bellini is now ready to be served! Here are some tips to make your cocktail experience even better:

1. Serve the Bellini immediately after mixing to enjoy the fresh flavors and bubbly texture.
2. If you’re hosting a brunch or a party, consider making a large batch of peach puree ahead of time. You can mix individual servings as guests arrive.
3. Pair your Bellini with light appetizers like bruschetta, cheese platters, or fruit skewers for a delightful experience.
4. For a fun twist, try adding a splash of raspberry or strawberry puree for a mixed fruit Bellini!

Tips for the Perfect Bellini

Here are some additional tips to ensure your Bellini turns out perfectly every time:

• Choose ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor. If peaches are out of season, you can use frozen peaches; just thaw them before blending.
• Make sure your Prosecco is well-chilled before serving. A cold drink is always more refreshing!
• If you want to experiment, try using different sparkling wines like Champagne or Cava for a unique twist on the classic Bellini.
• For a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the Pro

Conclusion:

In summary, the Easy Bellini Cocktail is a delightful and refreshing drink that perfectly captures the essence of summer in every sip. With its simple ingredients and effortless preparation, this cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking to impress their guests or simply enjoy a moment of indulgence at home. The combination of ripe peaches and sparkling wine creates a harmonious blend that is both fruity and bubbly, making it an ideal choice for brunches, celebrations, or a relaxing evening on the patio. For serving suggestions, consider garnishing your Easy Bellini with a slice of fresh peach or a sprig of mint for an extra touch of elegance. You can also experiment with variations by substituting the peaches with other fruits like strawberries or raspberries, allowing you to customize the flavor to your liking. Whether you prefer it classic or with a twist, the Easy Bellini Cocktail is versatile enough to suit any palate. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your experience with friends and family. I would love to hear how your Easy Bellini turns out and any creative variations you come up with! So, gather your ingredients, mix up a batch, and toast to good times and great company. Cheers!

Print