French 75 Recipe – One Classic Cocktail You Can’t Turn Away From
Introduction
Looking for a fancy and crisp cocktail? The French 75 cocktail recipe is a bubbly classic that never goes out of style. With its citrus bite, herbal gin base, and champagne fizz finish, this cocktail is perfect for a special occasion, brunch, or a classy evening cocktail.
Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or a social drinker, it’s a must to learn how to make the cocktail French 75 recipe in the comfort of your own home. Here on this blog, we’ll cover it all — from its fascinating history to step-by-step instructions (concise and detailed), pro tips, and the best time to serve it.
What is a French 75 Cocktail?
French 75 is a lively, fizzy cocktail that is typically made with gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and champagne. French 75 is typically served in a champagne coupe or flute glass, offering a clean and fizzy feel with each sip.
Famous for the balance between sweet and acid, it is one of those wines that is simultaneously sophisticated and festive.
French 75 Recipe Description
Cuisine: French-American
Course: Cocktails / Drinks
Servings: 1
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Prep Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Calories per serving: ~140 kcal (variable)
History of the French 75
The French 75 cocktail was first created during World War I and was first documented in 1915 in Paris at the New York Bar (now Harry’s New York Bar). It was indeed named after the French 75mm field gun because of its fame for strength and accuracy, much like the namesake cocktail!
This drink was originally created with cognac, but gin became the base spirit of preference over time, especially during Prohibition in America. It was a huge hit when it was featured in The Savoy Cocktail Book in 1930 and has since become a symbol of sophistication and everlasting beauty.
Optimal Time to Have a French 75 French 75 recipe is a beverage that can be enjoyed year-round. It is, however, best consumed during:
Spring and Summer
Its citrusy freshness over a fizzy champagne base makes it a great brunch, garden party, and rooftop night drink. The lemon is refreshing, and the bubbles are celebratory-tasting — perfect for weddings or summer parties.
Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Homemade French 75
Use Quality Gin
The London dry gin, floral and citrus in character, is the best. Avoid gins that are too juniper-strong unless you prefer that wallop.
Chill Your Glass
A chilled flute keeps the champagne bubbly longer and produces a crisp bite.
Go Fresh
Always employ freshly squeezed lemon juice. Pre-bottled lemon juice will add bitterness or artificial flavor.
Make Simple Syrup at Home
Simply combine equal amounts of water and sugar over low heat and dissolve. Let cool to use.
Champagne Alternatives
No champagne? Use Cava or Prosecco — they’re inexpensive and still retain that beautiful fizz.
Adjust Sweetness
If you prefer it a little sweeter, add a little more simple syrup. Prefer it a little more sour? Cut it a little.
Variations of the French 75
Cognac French 75: Substitute cognac with gin to create a richer, warmer rendition.
French 76: Use vodka instead of gin to have a purer taste.
Berry French 75: Muddle fresh berry (such as raspberries) in the shaker prior to adding ingredients for a berry touch.
Mocktail Version – French 75 Non-Alcoholic
Want the buzz without the vibes? Here’s a quick non-alcoholic version:
Ingredients
2 oz lemonade
½ oz plain syrup
Sparkling water or non-alcoholic sparkling wine
Lemon twist
Instructions
Shake lemonade and syrup over ice, strain into flute and top up with sparkling water. Garnish with lemon twist.
Final Thoughts
The French 75 cocktail recipe is not just a beverage — it’s a trip back in time, a portent of revelry, and a challenge of classic mixology. If you’re throwing a summer party, looking for a brunch partner in crime, or just need something to chill you out in the right way, this cocktail has got you covered. Give it a try today, and give your drink a touch of Parisian style. Santé!
Classic French 75 Cocktail Recipe
Description
The Classic French 75. Cocktail is a classic mix of comfort food. This drink features fresh lemon juice, gin, simple syrup, and bubbly champagne on top, with a citrus-like aroma that adds zing to the flavor. Suitable for parties, brunches, or romantic evenings: Light, effervescent and perfectly balanced French 75. With a lemon twist, the champagne flute served is both elegant and delightful. It was first made in the early 20th century and remains a classic, with its zesty sparkles and glittering hues.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Prepare Your Ingredients
Use freshly squeezed lemon juice to experience the best flavor. Refrigerate your champagne or sparkling wine in advance.
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Shake the Base
In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 oz gin, 1 oz lemon juice, and ½ oz simple syrup. Add a bunch of ice cubes and shake really hard for about 10–15 seconds. This will cool and slightly dilute the base so the flavor can shine through.
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Strain into Glass
Strain through a fine-mesh strainer or cocktail strainer into a chilled champagne coupe glass or champagne flute, discarding the pulp and ice of the lemon juice.
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Install the Sparkle
Top the glass with 3 oz of cold champagne or sparkling wine. Pour slowly under all circumstances to maintain the bubbles.
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Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle a pinch of lemon zest over the cocktail and drop in the glass. The citrus essential oils add an additional scent. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing sparkle.
Note
Perfect Pairings
Serve your French 75 cocktail recipe with:
- Light finger foods like smoked salmon canapés or goat cheese crostinis
- Brunch staples such as quiche, egg benedict, or avocado toast
- Soft cheeses like brie or camembert
- Fresh fruit platters
Why People Love the French 75
- Effortlessly Elegant: Looks great, tastes better
- Easy to Prepare at Home: No special equipment required
- Ideal For Any Occasion: Weddings, birthdays, date nights, or just a good day
- Versatile: Adaptable based on taste and ingredients available
Fun Fact
Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald were both fans of the French 75 as well. It's even mentioned in the classic film Casablanca. A cocktail so steeped in literature and film lore certainly deserves a spot in your cookbook!
