Name: Strawberry & Black Pepper Vodka Spritz
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 2 min
Total time: 7 min
Yield: 1
Ingredients: Strawberry and Black Pepper Syrup; 8 ounces ripe strawberries, tops removed, quartered; ⅓ cup granulated sugar; ⅓ cup water; 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper; 1½ ounce vodka; 1½ ounce dry vermouth; ¾ ounce strawberry–black pepper syrup; ¼ ounce fresh lemon juice; Chilled soda water; Ice; Strawberry slice

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Drinks

Strawberry & Black Pepper Vodka Spritz

Author: Mary DiSomma

This is a cocktail that instantly sets the tone for a gathering. It’s light, it’s refreshing, and a little bit surprising. When I make this strawberry and black pepper vodka spritz, it usually means the house is full. The kitchen doors are open, people are drifting in and out of the backyard, and the hum of conversation and laughter makes everything feel just right.

I love how the sweetness of the strawberries interacts with the subtle heat of black pepper. Dry vermouth adds just a hint of bitterness, which makes the drink feel balanced and sophisticated. The best part is that it’s also easy and fun. Let’s learn how to make one.

Ingredient Tips

A vodka spritz is a light, refreshing cocktail that consists of vodka, sparkling water or tonic water, and sometimes other ingredients for flavor. In this summery vodka spritz recipe, you’ll start with vodka, add a flavorful strawberry-pepper syrup, citrus for a hint of acidity and brightness, and then top it off with sparkling water.It’s just crisp, bubbly, and perfect for sipping—a drink you can enjoy all afternoon without feeling weighed down.

Preparation + Preservation Tips

The strawberry and black pepper syrup can easily be made ahead of time. You can make it earlier in the day or even a couple of days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

That’s right—you can put those leftover strawberries to good use. Nothing goes to waste in this recipe if you don’t want it to. After you strain the syrup, the remaining strawberry mixture is basically a ready-made compote—and it’s really good. Try it on toast with butter, add it to a charcuterie board, spoon it over ice cream, swirl it into yogurt, or even use it on pancakes. If you want to take your pancakes to a whole other level, try it on this Dutch Baby Pancake recipe.

Dutch Baby with Blueberries, Lemon Curd, or Apple Pear Compote➝

Extra Tips

If you’re feeling adventurous, here’s a successful experiment you can try at home. Instead of vermouth, try using Ancho Reyes Verde Chile Poblano Liqueur. This spirit’s savory, slightly smoky heat pairs beautifully with the sweet strawberries and peppery syrup. It’s a totally different vibe—still refreshing, but with a little edge. When we tested this version, it didn’t last long. Let’s just say there were a lot of refills happening.

Spiced Coconut Bourbon Old Fashioned with Maple and Citrus➝

I want to encourage people to feel confident to try new things in the kitchen and to be inspired to share more meals with friends and family.

It’s easy to collect recipes and save them for “some day.” I believe recipes are for making. Let's do it together. Join me in exploring the world through food!