As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves begin to turn, there’s no better time to elevate your gatherings with a drink that marries the essence of the season. I recently discovered the Figgy Spritz, a blissful cocktail that perfectly balances the earthy sweetness of figs with the uplifting spark of Prosecco and a touch of rosemary. It’s remarkable how a mere ten minutes in the kitchen can transform an ordinary evening into something truly celebratory!
Imagine the gentle fizz as you pour, the fragrant notes of elderflower swirling into the air, and that first sip bursting with flavor—it’s like a cozy hug in a glass. This enchanting libation is not only easy to whip up but also offers a delightful low ABV option, making it perfect for leisurely sipping. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply seeking a refreshing respite after a long day, the Figgy Spritz is sure to impress with its unique flair and festive spirit. Let’s dive into making this delightful cocktail and bring a touch of seasonal charm to your home!
Why Figgy Spritz Will Be Your Favorite
Unique Flavors: The Figgy Spritz showcases a stunning blend of earthy figs and floral elderflower, creating a refreshing taste for your palate.
Quick and Easy: In just 10 minutes, you can impress your guests with this delightful drink, perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Low ABV Enjoyment: With its low alcohol by volume, you can sip leisurely without feeling overwhelmed.
Versatile Options: Feel free to substitute figs with other fruits or herbs, allowing for endless experimentation to suit your taste.
Perfect for Entertaining: This cocktail serves beautifully at holiday parties, bringing festive charm to your table. Add seasonal elements for a delightful twist!
Figgy Spritz Ingredients
For the Fig Syrup
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; can be reduced or substituted with a sugar alternative for a lower-calorie option.
- Water – Used to dissolve the sugar in the preparation step.
- Fig Spread – Provides the fig flavor base; use fruit preserves if fig spread is unavailable.
For the Cocktail
- Prosecco or Sparkling Wine (750mL) – Serves as the cocktail’s bubbly foundation; choose a dry version for balance.
- Elderflower Liqueur (4 oz) – Enhances flavor with floral notes; substitute with honey syrup for a different sweetness profile.
- Ice Cubes – Adds chill to the drink.
- Club Soda (4 oz) – Lends lightness and dilution; adjust quantity for desired strength.
For Garnish
- Figs, sliced (1-2) – Used as garnish and additional flavor; fresh or dried figs work based on seasonality.
- Rosemary Sprigs – Adds an herbal aroma, enhancing the cocktail experience.
Enjoy your Figgy Spritz creation that’s sure to charm at any holiday gathering!
How to Make Figgy Spritz
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Prepare the Fig Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar with 1/2 cup water. Heat over medium heat until the sugar is fully dissolved, then mix in 1/4 cup fig spread. Let it cool before using.
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Mix the Cocktail: In a pitcher, combine the cooled fig syrup with 750mL of Prosecco, 4 oz of elderflower liqueur, and 4 oz of club soda. Stir gently to mix without losing bubbles.
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Add Ice and Figs: Fill your serving glasses with ice cubes and gently pour the cocktail mixture over the ice. Top with 1-2 sliced figs for charm and flavor.
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Garnish and Serve: Add a sprig of rosemary to each glass for an aromatic touch. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful fizz!
Optional: For an extra festive touch, rim your glasses with sugar before adding the cocktail.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Figgy Spritz
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Cool Syrup First: Make sure the fig syrup is completely cool before adding it to the Prosecco. This prevents the drink from becoming flat and helps maintain the fizzy charm of the Figgy Spritz.
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Fresh is Best: Always use fresh figs when possible. They enhance both the flavor and visual appeal of your cocktail, making it more inviting for guests.
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Prep in Batches: When serving a crowd, prepare the fig syrup ahead of time and keep all sparkling ingredients separate until just before serving. This keeps everything bubbly and fresh.
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Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet drink, experiment with the amount of granulated sugar in the syrup or choose a drier Prosecco to balance the flavors.
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Get Creative: Don’t hesitate to switch up the garnishes! Try adding herbs like thyme or basil in place of rosemary for a new twist on your Figgy Spritz cocktail.
What to Serve with Figgy Spritz?
Elevate your holiday gatherings with perfect pairings that enhance the delightful essence of your Figgy Spritz.
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Savory Cheese Platter: A mix of sharp cheeses and creamy Brie complements the sweetness of the spritz beautifully. Add some crackers for crunch and elevate your snack game!
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Roasted Nuts: Warm, spiced nuts provide a wonderfully crunchy texture and savory flavor that contrasts beautifully with the fig cocktail. Their earthiness pairs seamlessly with the drink’s sweet notes.
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Crispy Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes and basil offers a refreshing bite that balances the figgy sweetness, creating a vibrant flavor explosion in every bite.
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Citrus Salad: A zesty citrus salad adds brightness and freshness, cutting through the sweetness of the spritz while its vibrant colors elevate your table’s aesthetic. Consider adding a honey mustard vinaigrette for extra zing!
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Stuffed Figs: The ultimate pairing! Stuffed figs with goat cheese or prosciutto enhance the cocktail’s flavor profile while creating a sophisticated finger food option.
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Chocolate Truffles: End your evening on a sweet note with rich dark chocolate truffles that contrast the drink’s fruity notes, promising a delightful finale to your festive sips.
Make Ahead Options
These Figgy Spritz cocktails are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the fig syrup up to 3 days in advance by simply combining 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 1/4 cup fig spread in a saucepan and heating until dissolved. Let it cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, mix the chilled syrup with 750mL of Prosecco, 4 oz elderflower liqueur, and 4 oz club soda, just before pouring over ice and garnishing with figs and rosemary. This way, you’ll enjoy a delightful cocktail bursting with freshness without any last-minute fuss.
Figgy Spritz Variations
Get ready to make this cocktail uniquely yours with these enticing ideas!
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Fruity Twist: Swap fig spread for your favorite fruit preserves like blackberry or raspberry for a new flavor profile.
The sweetness of different fruits can lead to delightful variations. Each sip becomes an exploration of taste! -
Herb Swap: Experiment with herbs like thyme or basil in place of rosemary for an aromatic surprise.
These herbs add distinct notes that beautifully complement the cocktail’s sweetness. -
Sparkling Alternatives: Substitute Prosecco with a dry cider or flavored sparkling water for a refreshing non-wine version.
This keeps the spirit of the spritz alive while introducing new flavor dimensions. -
Citrus Zing: Add a splash of fresh lemon or orange juice to brighten the drink’s flavor palette.
Citrus complements the fig’s sweetness, offering a zesty kick that enhances every sip. -
Low-Sugar Option: Use a sugar alternative such as agave nectar or stevia in your fig syrup for a lighter version.
This twist allows those counting calories to enjoy the festive joy without compromise. -
Bubbly Infusion: Incorporate a splash of flavored sparkling drink, like ginger ale or tonic water, for extra depth.
These bubbles provide a delightful contrast to the figs and elderflower, accentuating the effervescence. -
Seasoned Flavor: For a warm touch, add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to your fig syrup before mixing.
These spices evoke cozy autumn vibes while harmonizing the drink’s complexity. -
Spicy Kick: Infuse a hint of jalapeño or chili pepper into the fig syrup for a spiced-up version.
This adventurous option balances the sweetness with a thrilling heat, perfect for those seeking something different.
How to Store and Freeze Figgy Spritz
Fig Syrup: Store homemade fig syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This ensures the syrup retains its sweetness and flavor for your Figgy Spritz.
Cocktail Mixing: For the best fizz, mix the cocktail right before serving. If you prepare ahead, keep the sparkling components separate and mix them just before enjoyment.
Leftover Cocktail: If you have any leftover Figgy Spritz, store it in the fridge for up to 1 day, but note it may lose some of its effervescence.
Freezing: Avoid freezing the mixed Figgy Spritz, as carbonation will dissipate. Instead, consider freezing pre-made fig syrup in ice cube trays for future use!
Figgy Spritz Recipe FAQs
What kind of figs should I use for the Figgy Spritz?
Absolutely! It’s best to use fresh figs for the Figgy Spritz whenever they are in season. Look for figs that are plump and tender with no dark spots all over. If fresh figs are not available, you can substitute them with dried figs or even other fruit spreads such as blackberry or raspberry for a unique twist.
How should I store leftover Figgy Spritz?
Very! If you happen to have some leftover Figgy Spritz, it’s best to store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 1 day. However, keep in mind that the carbonation may diminish, so it might not have that delightful fizz the next day. If possible, try to mix the cocktail fresh just before serving to enjoy that effervescent experience.
Can I make the fig syrup ahead of time?
Of course! You can prepare the fig syrup in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. When you’re ready to enjoy your Figgy Spritz, simply mix the chilled syrup with the sparkling components right before serving to maintain the bubbly charm.
Can I freeze the Figgy Spritz?
Definitely! While freezing the mixed cocktail isn’t recommended due to carbonation loss, you can freeze your homemade fig syrup in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the syrup cubes to an airtight bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to make a refreshing Figgy Spritz, simply thaw a couple of cubes and mix as usual.
What if I want to reduce the sweetness of my Figgy Spritz?
Absolutely! You can customize the sweetness level of your Figgy Spritz. To do so, consider reducing the granulated sugar used in the fig syrup. You could also opt for a drier Prosecco, which complements the earthy notes of the figs and balances the overall finish. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different amounts until you find your perfect sip!
Is this cocktail safe for guests with dietary restrictions?
Very! The Figgy Spritz is a low ABV option and can be adapted for various dietary needs. If you have guests with sugar restrictions, consider using a sugar alternative in the fig syrup. Always check for potential allergens, like elderflower liqueur, as some brands may contain gluten or other allergens. Provide alternative garnishes or mixers if necessary to accommodate everyone’s needs!
Delightful Figgy Spritz: Your New Holiday Cocktail Favorite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine granulated sugar and water in a saucepan. Heat until sugar dissolves, then mix in fig spread. Cool before use.
- In a pitcher, mix the cooled fig syrup with Prosecco, elderflower liqueur, and club soda. Stir gently.
- Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the cocktail mixture over the ice. Top with sliced figs.
- Add rosemary sprigs as garnish. Serve immediately.