Description
A refreshing and citrusy Brazilian cocktail made with cachaça, fresh lime, and sugar. Simple to prepare and packed with bold flavors, the Caipirinha is the perfect drink for warm weather and festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 fresh lime (thin-skinned, juicy limes work best)
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar (helps release lime oils when muddled)
- 2 ounces cachaça (Brazilian sugarcane spirit)
- Ice cubes or crushed ice
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lime
- Wash the lime thoroughly and cut it into wedges.
- Remove the central white pith to avoid bitterness.
Step 2: Muddle the Lime and Sugar
- Place 4-5 lime wedges into a sturdy glass.
- Add 2 teaspoons of sugar on top of the lime.
- Using a muddler, gently press the limes to release the juice and oils.
- Avoid over-muddling to prevent bitter flavors from the peel.
Step 3: Add Cachaça
- Pour 2 ounces of cachaça over the muddled lime and sugar.
- Stir well to dissolve the sugar completely.
Step 4: Add Ice and Serve
- Fill the glass with ice cubes or crushed ice.
- Stir again to mix everything evenly.
- Garnish with a lime wheel and serve immediately.
Notes
- Best Limes: Choose fresh, thin-skinned limes for more juice.
- Sugar Choice: Granulated sugar works best for muddling. Avoid powdered sugar.
- Cachaça Quality: Use a good-quality cachaça for the best flavor. Lightly aged cachaça offers a crisper taste, while aged cachaça adds richness.
- Serving Tip: Always serve fresh to enjoy its vibrant flavors.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: dessert
- Method: Muddling
- Cuisine: Brazilian