Brazilian Cocktails Recipe

Prepare lime

Wash the lime, trim the ends and cut into 8 wedges (quarter, then halves).

Muddle

Place the lime wedges and 2 tsp granulated sugar into a sturdy rocks glass or small cocktail shaker. Use a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon to press and twist the limes to release juice and oils, dissolving the sugar. Do about 10–15 firm presses; avoid pulverizing the peel into bits.

Add cachaça and ice

Pour 2 fl oz cachaça over the muddled lime and sugar. Fill the glass with about 1 cup crushed ice (or to the top).

Mix and serve

Stir vigorously for 10–15 seconds to chill and dilute slightly. Optionally top with a lime wheel. Serve immediately with a short straw.

Measure and combine

Add 2 fl oz cachaça, 2 tbsp passion fruit pulp, and 1 tbsp sweetened condensed milk to a blender.

Blend with ice

Add 4 ice cubes and blend on medium-high for 8–12 seconds until smooth and frothy but not watery. Taste for sweetness; add an extra 1/2 tbsp condensed milk if you prefer sweeter.

Serve

Pour into a chilled coupe or rocks glass. Garnish with a halved passion fruit or a small twist of lime if desired. Serve immediately.

Macerate strawberries

Place 4 hulled, quartered strawberries and 0.5 fl oz simple syrup into a rocks glass. Use a muddler to press the strawberries until they release juice but still retain some texture (6–8 presses).

Add vodka and lime

Add 2 fl oz vodka and 0.5 fl oz fresh lime juice to the glass. Stir briefly to combine with the macerated fruit.

Add ice and finish

Fill the glass with about 1 cup crushed ice, stir vigorously for 10 seconds to chill and integrate flavors. Optionally garnish with a small strawberry or lime wedge and serve with a straw.