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There’s something magical about the first sip of a perfectly blended frosé on a warm afternoon. When you combine the elegance of rosé wine with the bright, citrusy notes of limoncello and the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries, you create a frozen masterpiece that’s both sophisticated and refreshingly simple. This Strawberry Limoncello Frosé takes the classic frozen wine trend and elevates it with Italian flair, delivering a cocktail that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Whether you’re planning a summer brunch, hosting a pool party, or simply want to treat yourself to something special, this three-ingredient wonder delivers professional results with minimal effort. The secret lies in proper preparation freezing your rosé ahead of time ensures that silky, slushy texture that makes frosé so irresistible.
Table of Contents
What Makes This Limoncello Frosé Special?
Traditional frosé recipes typically rely on simple syrup or fresh lemon juice for their flavor profile. This version takes a different approach by incorporating limoncello, the beloved Italian lemon liqueur that adds both sweetness and complexity. The limoncello brings a sophisticated depth that pairs beautifully with the floral notes of rosé and the fresh berry flavor of strawberries.
The combination creates a harmonious balance the wine provides the base, the limoncello adds citrus brightness and a touch of elegance, and the strawberries contribute natural sweetness and that gorgeous pink hue. You’ll need a quality blender to achieve that perfect slushy consistency that makes every sip feel like a luxurious escape.
Essential Ingredients for Strawberry Limoncello Frosé
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rosé wine | 1 bottle (750ml) | Choose a dry or semi-dry variety |
| Limoncello | ¾ cup | Italian lemon liqueur |
| Fresh strawberries | 2 cups | Cleaned, hulled, and frozen |
| Granulated sugar | 2-4 tablespoons | Adjust to taste preference |
The quality of your rosé matters, though you don’t need to splurge on an expensive bottle. A mid-range dry rosé works beautifully, as the freezing and blending process will mellow some of the wine’s subtle characteristics. Look for bottles with good acidity and fruit-forward notes that will shine through even when frozen.
Fresh strawberries are non-negotiable for this recipe. While frozen store-bought berries can work in a pinch, freshly frozen strawberries provide better flavor and texture. When selecting strawberries, choose firm, bright red berries without soft spots. You’ll want to hull and halve them before freezing on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent them from clumping together.
Equipment You’ll Need
To create the perfect frosé texture, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:
- High-speed blender: Essential for crushing ice and creating that smooth, slushy consistency – view blender
- Ice cube trays: 2-3 standard trays for freezing the rosé – view kitchen utensils
- Baking sheets: For freezing strawberries without sticking – view baking sheets
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient portions – view measuring set
- Chilled serving glasses: Wine glasses or tumblers work perfectly
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Phase (8+ Hours Before Serving)
Step 1: Freeze the Rosé
The foundation of any great frosé is properly frozen wine. Open your bottle of rosé and carefully pour it into 2-3 ice cube trays. Fill each compartment about three-quarters full to prevent overflow as the liquid expands during freezing. Place the trays in your freezer and let them freeze for at least 8 hours, though overnight is ideal. These rosé cubes can be made up to several days in advance, making this recipe perfect for planned entertaining.
Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries
While your rosé freezes, prepare your strawberries. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water, then remove the green hulls and slice each berry in half. Arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet this prevents them from freezing into one solid clump. Freeze for at least 3 hours. Once fully frozen, you can transfer them to a resealable freezer bag for convenient storage until you’re ready to blend.
Blending and Serving (5 Minutes)
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
When you’re ready to serve your limoncello strawberry frosé, gather your frozen components. Remove the rosé cubes from the trays and place them directly into your high-speed blender. Add the frozen strawberries and pour in the ¾ cup of limoncello. The limoncello doesn’t need to be chilled, as the frozen ingredients will bring the temperature down.
Step 4: Blend to Perfection
Start your blender on low speed, then gradually increase to high. Blend for 30-60 seconds until the mixture reaches a uniform, slushy consistency. You’re looking for that perfect texture not icy and chunky, but smooth and spoonable, similar to a frozen margarita. If your blender struggles, let the mixture sit for 2-3 minutes to soften slightly, then blend again.
Step 5: Adjust Sweetness
Taste your frosé at this point. Depending on the sweetness of your strawberries and your personal preference, you may want to add sugar. Start with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, blend briefly, taste again, and add up to 2 more tablespoons if desired. Remember that frozen drinks taste less sweet than room-temperature ones, so don’t be afraid to add a touch more sweetness.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Pour your beautiful pink frosé into chilled glasses. For an elegant presentation, consider garnish options like fresh strawberry slices, lemon wheels, or fresh mint sprigs. Serve immediately while the texture is at its peak slushy perfection.
Pro Tips for the Best Frosé
Choose the Right Rosé: Opt for a dry or off-dry rosé rather than a sweet variety. The limoncello and strawberries provide plenty of sweetness, so a drier wine creates better balance. French Provence rosés work wonderfully, as do Spanish rosados.
Don’t Skip the Freezing Time: Patience is key with frosé. Properly frozen rosé cubes are what give this drink its signature texture. If the wine isn’t completely frozen, your frosé will be too watery and won’t hold its slushy consistency.
Freeze Strawberries Properly: Always freeze strawberries on a flat surface first. This prevents them from clumping together and ensures they blend smoothly without creating icy chunks in your finished drink.
Adjust Consistency as Needed: If your frosé is too thick, add a splash of additional rosé or limoncello and blend again. If it’s too thin, add a few regular ice cubes and blend until incorporated.
Chill Your Glasses: Pre-chilling your serving glasses in the freezer for 15-20 minutes helps your frosé maintain its perfect texture longer and prevents rapid melting.
Batch Prep for Parties: This recipe easily doubles or triples for crowds. You can even pre-blend and keep it in the freezer, stirring occasionally, for up to 2 hours before serving.
Variations and Customizations
Mixed Berry Frosé: Replace strawberries with a combination of frozen raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries for a deeper flavor profile and gorgeous purple color.
Peach Limoncello Frosé: Swap strawberries for frozen peaches to create a summery variation that tastes like Italian sunshine.
Extra Citrus Kick: Add the zest of one lemon before blending for an even brighter citrus punch that complements the limoncello.
Herb-Infused Version: Add 4-5 fresh basil leaves or mint leaves to the blender for an herbaceous twist that adds sophistication.
Sparkling Finish: Top each glass with a splash of prosecco or sparkling water for added effervescence and a lighter texture.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This Strawberry Limoncello Frosé shines as a standalone cocktail, but it also pairs beautifully with various dishes. Serve it alongside light summer fare like grilled shrimp, caprese salad, or fresh bruschetta. The citrus notes complement seafood particularly well, while the berry sweetness balances salty charcuterie and cheese boards.
For brunch service, this frosé makes an elegant alternative to traditional mimosas. Pair it with quiche, fruit salads, or pastries for a memorable morning gathering. The cocktail’s visual appeal makes it perfect for celebrations think bridal showers, birthday parties, or anniversary dinners.
Consider serving it in wine glasses for a more formal presentation, or use clear tumblers for casual gatherings. Add colorful paper straws for a festive touch that also makes the thick consistency easier to enjoy.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
While frosé is best enjoyed immediately after blending, you can prepare components in advance to streamline serving. The rosé cubes keep in the freezer for up to two weeks when stored in a freezer bag after initial freezing. Frozen strawberries maintain quality for up to three months in proper freezer storage.
If you have leftover blended frosé, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to one week. When ready to serve again, let it soften at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, then re-blend briefly to restore the slushy texture. Note that the consistency may not be quite as perfect as freshly made, but it will still be delicious.
For entertaining, you can prep all frozen components the night before, then blend batches as needed throughout your event. This keeps the texture consistently perfect without requiring all your frosé to be made at once.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use white wine instead of rosé?
While you technically can use white wine, rosé is preferable for both flavor and appearance. Rosé’s fruit-forward character and pink color create the signature frosé experience. White wine will produce a paler color and potentially sharper flavor profile.
What if I don’t have limoncello?
If limoncello isn’t available, you can substitute with vodka plus fresh lemon juice and simple syrup. Use ½ cup vodka, ¼ cup lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons simple syrup. However, authentic limoncello provides a unique flavor that’s worth seeking out.
How do I make this non-alcoholic?
Create a mocktail version by replacing rosé with white grape juice or cranberry-white grape blend, and substitute the limoncello with lemonade plus a splash of lemon extract. The texture and concept remain similar.
Why is my frosé too watery?
Watery frosé typically results from wine that wasn’t completely frozen or adding liquid that’s too warm. Ensure all components are thoroughly frozen, and avoid letting frozen ingredients sit out before blending.
Can I use a regular blender instead of high-speed?
A regular blender can work, but may struggle with the frozen components. If using a standard blender, let the frozen ingredients soften for 5-10 minutes before blending, and be prepared to blend longer for smooth results. A powerful blender makes the process significantly easier.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings depending on glass size. For larger gatherings, simply multiply all ingredients accordingly.
What’s the best rosé to use?
Dry or off-dry rosés work best. Look for varieties labeled as Provence rosé, Spanish rosado, or domestic dry rosé. Avoid sweet rosés, which will make your frosé overly sugary.
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PrintStrawberry Limoncello Frosé Recipe (3 Ingredients, Ready in Minutes!)
A refreshing frozen wine cocktail that combines rosé wine, Italian limoncello, and fresh strawberries. This elegant and easy-to-make frosé is perfect for summer entertaining, brunches, and special occasions.
- Prep Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
1 bottle (750ml) rosé wine
¾ cup limoncello
2 cups fresh strawberries, cleaned, hulled, sliced in half, and frozen
2 to 4 tablespoons granulated sugar, to taste
Instructions
1. At least 8 hours before you want to enjoy your frosé, you need to freeze the rosé wine. Fill 2-3 ice cube trays with rosé. Place in the freezer and freeze for at least 8 hours or preferably overnight. You can make the rosé ice cubes several days in advance. The strawberries also need to be frozen so make sure to freeze your berries on a parchment-lined sheet pan (so they don’t stick together!) for at least 3 hours. At this point you can place them in a resealable freezer bag and store them in the freezer until you’re ready to make your frosé.
2. When you are ready to serve your limoncello strawberry frosé, place the rosé ice cubes, limoncello, and frozen strawberries into a high-speed blender. Blend to combine. The mixture should look like a rosy-colored slushy! If you would like a sweeter drink, simply add some of the sugar to taste and give the mix another whirl! Pour into chilled glasses and enjoy immediately.
Notes
Wine cubes can be made up to 2 weeks in advance and stored in freezer bags.
Freeze strawberries on a flat surface first to prevent clumping.
Choose a dry or off-dry rosé for best flavor balance.
Adjust sugar based on strawberry sweetness and personal preference.
Serve immediately for best texture and consistency.
For parties, blend in batches rather than making everything at once.