Raise a Toast to Spring with Nielsen-Massey Vanillas

This spring, join Nielsen-Massey Vanillas as we raise a toast to the return of warmer weather with a refreshing, fruity cocktail recipe. Whether at a Mother’s Day brunch, an outdoor dinner party or a graduation celebration, spring cocktails are a delicious way to bring the gathering together.

I received a sample of  2-ounce bottle of Nielsen-Massey Tahitian Pure Vanilla Extract and enjoyed trying out some of the delicious recipes! The Lemon Lime Raspberry Twist is my favorite!

Following are some tips and tricks for creating the perfect drink at home (courtesy of our friends at Nielsen-Massey):

• Use frozen fruit or juices in lieu of ice cubes to keep beverages from getting watered down.
• Instead of using simple syrup to sweeten your drink, use a spoonful of marmalade or jam to add a fruity flavor along with sweetness.
• Turn to punches or pitcher-style drinks for large parties. They are easy to mix ahead of time and ensure that you will spend the evening socializing with your guests instead of tending bar.
• For mixed drinks, keep additional soda, sparkling water or juice on hand to make alcohol-free versions for children or adults not imbibing.

This Lemon Lime Raspberry Twist recipe from Nielsen-Massey Vanillas, included below, is the ideal springtime cocktail. Fragrant Nielsen-Massey Tahitian Pure Vanilla Extract and Pure Lemon Extract highlight the fresh flavors of raspberries and lime juice for a drink that is as refreshing as it is beautiful. Replace the vodka with an additional ounce of lemon sparkling water for a mocktail that anyone can enjoy.

Lemon-Vanilla Simple Syrup
(½ Cup)

Ingredients
¾ cup water
½ cup sugar
¼ teaspoon Nielsen-Massey Pure Lemon Extract
½ teaspoon Nielsen-Massey Tahitian Pure Vanilla Extract

Directions
In a small saucepan, add water, sugar and lemon extract; stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until syrup reduces, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat. After syrup has cooled, add vanilla extract and stir. Refrigerate unused syrup in an airtight container.

Lemon Lime Raspberry Twist
(Serves 1)

Ingredients
6 fresh raspberries
½ ounce fresh lime juice
½ ounce Lemon-Vanilla Simple Syrup
1 ounce vodka
2 ounces organic lemon sparkling water
lime twist
2 frozen raspberries
orange wedge

Directions
In a cocktail shaker, muddle fresh raspberries, lime juice and Lemon-Vanilla Simple Syrup. Add vodka and sparkling water; shake and strain into an ice-filled rocks glass. Drop lime twist and frozen raspberries into glass. Top with a freshly squeezed orange wedge.

Don’t forget to check out the Nielsen-Massey Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/NielsenMasseyVanillas and Twitter https://twitter.com/NielsenMassey.

Please visit the Nielsen-Massey website for more product information and additional recipes.

Self Disclosure: I received a free sample to facilitate this post. Photo and Recipe Credit with tips: Nielsen-Massey.