Brandy Daisy

Pro tips

• Shake hard for 10–15 seconds to fully dissolve the powdered sugar and create a silky texture.
• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice; bottled juice will taste flat and one-dimensional.
• Chill your glass with ice water before straining to keep the drink colder longer.
• If using grenadine instead of raspberry syrup, reduce the amount slightly as it's sweeter and more potent.

Substitutions

• Raspberry syrup → Grenadine (more tart, deeper color)
• Brandy → Cognac (smoother, more refined)
• Powdered sugar → Simple syrup (use 1/2 tsp, dissolves faster)
• Lemon juice → Lime juice (brighter, more tropical flavor)

Storage & make-ahead

Serve immediately after shaking. This is a fresh cocktail best consumed right away.

Equipment

cocktail shaker · jigger · bar strainer

What's the difference between a Brandy Daisy and a Brandy Sour?

A Brandy Daisy typically includes fruit liqueur or syrup (like raspberry or grenadine) for sweetness and color, while a Sour relies on powdered sugar alone. The Daisy is fruitier and more complex.

Can I use fresh raspberry juice instead of syrup?

Yes, but use about 1 tsp fresh raspberry juice and slightly increase the powdered sugar to compensate, as fresh juice is less sweet than syrup.

Should I shake or stir a Brandy Daisy?

Shake vigorously with ice to emulsify the sugar and juice, creating a frothy, chilled drink. Strain into a glass over fresh ice.

What type of brandy works best?

Use a mid-range cognac or brandy (VS or VSOP grade). Avoid top-shelf reserves, which are wasted in mixed drinks, or very cheap brandy, which lacks depth.

Can I make this ahead for a party?

Mix the lemon juice, powdered sugar, and raspberry syrup ahead, but shake with brandy and ice just before serving to preserve carbonation and chill.