Classic Cocktails Gin Spring Recipes

French Blonde

Meet your new go-to spring cocktail: the French Blonde. This floral and citrusy beauty is made with gin, Lillet Blanc, elderflower liqueur, grapefruit juice, and a dash of lemon bitters. It’s fresh, elegant, and totally brunch-worthy.

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French Blonde

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Okay—how have I never made a French Blonde before this!? This was my first time trying the cocktail that’s been having a major moment lately (yes, partially thanks to the Taylor Swift effect), and wow… the hype is real.

It’s light, floral, citrusy, and so effortlessly elegant. Basically, this is the perfect spring cocktail. Serve it for Easter brunch, Mother’s Day, a backyard happy hour, or your next girl’s night in. It’s giving bougie but breezy—and I’m obsessed.

If you haven’t made one yet, consider this your sign. Let’s shake it up!


What Is a French Blonde?

The French Blonde is a modern classic with a few variations floating around, but the core ingredients typically include gin, Lillet Blanc, grapefruit juice, elderflower liqueur, and a dash of bitters. It’s floral, citrusy, and crisp—like a French 75’s chic cousin who wears linen and smells like lemon blossoms.

Why You’ll Love This Cocktail

  • Perfect for spring + summer – Fresh grapefruit and elderflower are seasonal stars.
  • Low effort, high impact – It looks and tastes fancy, but it’s easy to make.
  • Great for brunch – Refreshing and light enough to sip before noon.
  • Balanced and beautiful – Not too sweet, not too strong—just right.
French Blonde
A light and floral spring cocktail made with gin, Lillet Blanc, elderflower liqueur, grapefruit juice, and lemon bitters. Perfect for brunch or springtime sipping in the sun.
Print Recipe
Servings 1
Ingredients
  • 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
  • 2 oz @lillet.usa blanc
  • 1 oz gin I used @beefeatergin
  • 1/2 oz @giffardusa elderflower liqueur
  • 3 dashes lemon @scrappysbitters
Instructions
  • In a cocktail shaker add all ingredients
  • Add ice and shake
  • Double strain into a chilled coupe or Nick and Nora
  • Garnish with a grapefruit slice!

Hosting Tips & Variations

  • Batch it! Multiply the ingredients and chill in a pitcher (hold the ice until ready to serve). Shake per glass and garnish.
  • Add bubbles – Top with a splash of Prosecco for a sparkling brunch version.
  • Try pink grapefruit juice for a sweeter, slightly softer flavor.
  • No Lillet Blanc? Try Cocchi Americano or a dry white vermouth in a pinch.

When to Serve a French Blonde

  • Easter or Mother’s Day brunch
  • Bridal showers or spring garden parties
  • Golden hour sipping
  • Literally any time you want to feel effortlessly elegant

Final Sip

The French Blonde is a must-try if you’re into floral, citrusy cocktails that feel equal parts pretty and refreshing. It’s quickly earned a spot in my spring cocktail rotation—and I have a feeling it’ll land in yours too.

Xoxo, cheers!

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