.5 ml lychee liqueur
Lychee liqueur is primarily an alcohol source with minimal nutritional value, containing approximately 100–110 calories per fluid ounce due to its sugar and alcohol content, with no significant vitamins or minerals in typical serving sizes.
About
Lychee liqueur is a sweetened alcoholic spirit infused with the flavor of lychee fruit (Litchi chinensis), a tropical stone fruit native to Southeast Asia. The liqueur is produced by macerating lychee flesh, juice, or extract in a neutral spirit base, then sweetening and filtering the result. The resulting liquid ranges from clear to pale golden in color, with an alcohol content typically between 15–30% ABV. The flavor profile is characterized by delicate floral and fruity notes with subtle sweetness, capturing the distinctive musky-sweet essence of fresh lychees while adding complexity through the underlying spirit.
Key commercial varieties include brands from China, France, and other producers, though individual distilleries may employ different maceration periods and sweetening levels to achieve distinct flavor profiles. Some versions incorporate additional ingredients such as vodka or brandy as the base spirit, affecting the final character of the liqueur.
Culinary Uses
Lychee liqueur functions primarily as a cocktail ingredient and aperitif, frequently featured in Asian-inspired mixed drinks, tiki cocktails, and modern bar creations. It is used to add delicate fruity sweetness and floral complexity to martinis, champagne cocktails, and sours without overwhelming other ingredients. The liqueur pairs well with gin, vodka, rum, and sparkling wine, making it versatile for both contemporary and classical cocktail applications. Beyond cocktails, lychee liqueur serves as a dessert ingredient in sauces, glazes, and infused desserts, and may be enjoyed neat or on ice as an after-dinner drink. In culinary applications, it can be reduced into syrups for glazing poultry or incorporated into fruit-based desserts for added depth and complexity.