Recipes


Creative Cocktails Using Lychee Syrup
Posted by Niel Neethling on 9 September 2025
Lychee syrup is a delightful addition to any cocktail. Its sweet, floral notes can transform a simple drink into something extraordinary. This versatile syrup pairs well with a variety of spirits, making it a favourite among cocktail enthusiasts. Whether you're a home bartender or just love experimenting with flavours, lychee syrup offers endless possibilities. From classic cocktails to innovative creations, this syrup can elevate your drink game. Ready to explore the world of lychee syrup for cocktails? Let's dive into some creative recipes and tips.
What Is Lychee Syrup and Why Use It in Cocktails?
Lychee syrup, also known as litchi syrup, is a sweet liquid made from lychee fruit. Its exotic taste is both sweet and floral, offering a unique twist to drinks. Cocktails benefit from lychee syrup in several ways. It enhances flavour profiles, balances sweetness, and adds an exotic touch. The syrup pairs well with a range of spirits and mixers, making it a versatile component in cocktail crafting.
Consider these reasons for using lychee syrup in your cocktails:
- Adds sweet and floral notes
- Complements spirits like vodka and gin
- Provides a unique, exotic flair

How to Make Lychee Syrup at Home
Our lychee syrup recipe is so easy to make at home. You need a few basic ingredients to get started: lychees, sugar, and water. Both fresh and canned lychees work well for this recipe, so choose based on availability.
Start by peeling and pitting your lychees. If using canned lychees, drain them well. After preparing the lychees, combine them with sugar and water in a saucepan. Simmer the mixture over medium heat, allowing the flavours to meld. Stir occasionally to prevent the syrup from sticking. The mixture should thicken slightly and take on a luscious aroma.
Once the syrup has reached your desired consistency, remove it from heat. Strain the syrup through a fine sieve to eliminate any solids. Let it cool before bottling and storing.
Here’s a simple list to follow:
- Peel and pit lychees (or drain canned)
- Combine with sugar and water in a saucepan
- Simmer until thickened
- Strain and cool before storing
Essential Tips for Using Lychee Syrup in Cocktails
Lychee syrup is a versatile addition to any bar. Its sweet, floral flavour pairs well with a variety of spirits. To make the most of lychee syrup, consider these essential tips.
Adjust the syrup's sweetness to suit your cocktail. You might need to balance it with sour or bitter ingredients. Different spirits can affect the final flavour profile, so experiment to find your preferred combination.
Here’s a quick guide to maximise flavour:
- Balance sweetness with citrus or bitters
- Pair with vodka, gin, or rum
- Experiment with fresh herbs for complexity
Classic and Creative Lychee Syrup Cocktail Recipes
Lychee syrup transforms ordinary cocktails into unique creations. Its exotic sweetness enhances a wide range of mixed drinks. Begin by exploring both classic and innovative recipes to delight your palate.
Lychee Martini
The Lychee Martini is a sophisticated choice for lychee lovers. It combines vodka's smoothness with lychee's floral tones. Enjoy a refreshing and elegant drink that complements any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz lychee syrup
- 1/2 oz lime juice
- Ice cubes
- Lychee fruit for garnish
Lychee Mojito
Take the classic mojito to the next level with a lychee twist. It’s a refreshing cocktail with a tropical flair, perfect for hot days.
Ingredients
- 2 oz white rum
- 1 oz lychee syrup
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- Mint leaves
- Club soda
- Ice cubes
Lychee Bellini
For a bubbly delight, try the Lychee Bellini. It’s a sparkling concoction that captures the essence of lychee syrup beautifully.
Ingredients
- 2 oz lychee syrup
- 4 oz prosecco or champagne
- Lychee fruit for garnish
These cocktails are just the beginning of lychee syrup's potential. Experiment with your favourite recipes or create new ones. The possibilities with this sweet, floral syrup are endless!
To create cocktails with lychee syrup, remember:
- Pair with both gin and rum for variety
- Use citrus juices to enhance floral notes
- Garnish with lychee fruit for visual appeal

Non-Alcoholic Lychee Syrup Mocktails
Lychee syrup isn't just for alcoholic cocktails. It can also create refreshing mocktails everyone can enjoy. The syrup's distinct flavour elevates any soft drink or juice-based mix.
Try These Mocktails
- Lychee Lemonade: Mix lychee syrup with lemon juice and sparkling water.
- Lychee Iced Tea: Blend the syrup with chilled tea and a squeeze of lime.
- Lychee Spritzer: Combine lychee syrup, soda water, and a slice of fresh fruit.
These mocktails offer delightful refreshment, proving that lychee syrup's versatility extends far beyond traditional cocktails.
Flavour Variations and Infusions for Lychee Syrup
Enhancing lychee syrup with additional flavours can add depth to cocktails. Infusing the syrup with spices or herbs creates unique taste profiles.
Infusion Ideas
- Ginger Lychee: Add fresh ginger slices during the simmering process.
- Minty Lychee: Include mint leaves for a refreshing twist.
- Spiced Lychee: Simmer with a cinnamon stick for warmth.
These variations can transform simple cocktails into complex culinary adventures, delighting any drink enthusiast.
Storing and Serving Lychee Syrup
Proper storage maintains lychee syrup's flavour for longer. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Use within two weeks for best freshness.
- Shake well before using to mix flavours.
- Serve chilled in cocktails or mocktails.
These tips ensure your syrup remains flavourful and ready to enhance any drink experience.
For more creative recipes, visit faveproduce.com/recipes/.
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