Lush Slush: A Family Tradition

The first time I tasted Lush Slush, I was sneaking a sip from my aunt’s glass during a holiday gathering. The icy, fruity sweetness, subtly hinting at something more grown-up, was a revelation. It was like a secret whispered in the midst of all the caroling and gift-giving. I remember the vibrant colors of the drink – particularly when she made it with apricot brandy – and the almost magical way the slush transformed into a refreshing cocktail as it melted. It became an anticipated ritual, a signal that the holidays were truly here, and that even us kids could partake, albeit discreetly, in a festive treat.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 24
• Yield: About 3 quarts
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 2 cups sugar
• 2 cups water
• 7 cups water
• 1 (12 ounce) can frozen orange juice
• 1 (12 ounce) can frozen lemonade
• 1 (750 ml) bottle rum OR 1 (750 ml) bottle brandy (apricot, peach, or blackberry)
• Squirt/Fresca (grapefruit flavored pop) or 7up/Sprite, for serving
• Cherries, for garnish

Equipment Needed

• Large Tupperware-type container with lid that will fit in your freezer
• Large saucepan
• Large mixing spoon
• Tall glasses

Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, combine 2 cups of sugar and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
2. Once the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is boiling, remove from heat.
3. Pour the hot sugar syrup into a large Tupperware-type container with a lid. This container needs to be freezer-safe and large enough to hold all the ingredients.
4. Add 7 cups of water to the container.
5. Stir in 1 (12 ounce) can of frozen orange juice and 1 (12 ounce) can of frozen lemonade. It’s easiest to add these while they are still frozen, as they will help cool down the mixture more quickly. Stir until they start to dissolve.
6. Pour in 1 (750 ml) bottle of rum OR brandy. For the best flavor and color, consider using apricot, peach, or blackberry brandy.
7. Stir the mixture well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
8. Place the lid securely on the container and transfer it to your freezer.
9. Freeze the mixture for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight. To prevent a solid block of ice, stir the mixture every few hours as it freezes. This will create the desired slushy consistency.
10. When ready to serve, scoop the slushy mixture into a tall glass, filling it about halfway.
11. Top off the glass with half Squirt/Fresca (grapefruit flavored pop) or 7up/Sprite.
12. Garnish with a cherry and serve immediately.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Flavor Infusion: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a few slices of fresh fruit (like oranges, lemons, or peaches) to the mixture before freezing. Remove them before serving.
• Sugar Adjustment: If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the amount of sugar by ¼ to ½ cup. Taste the mixture before freezing and adjust accordingly.
• Booze Boost (Optional): If you want a stronger drink, add an extra half-cup of rum or brandy. But be mindful of the overall balance of flavors.
• Brandy Considerations: Blackberry brandy, while offering a distinctive flavor, can result in a less visually appealing color (as the original recipe notes). Apricot and peach brandies tend to produce a more vibrant and attractive final product.
• Thawing Trouble: If the slush freezes rock solid despite your best efforts, simply let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, then use a fork to break it up into the desired slushy consistency.
• Make-Ahead Marvel: This recipe is perfect for making ahead of time. In fact, it benefits from the long freeze time. You can prepare it days in advance and simply store it in the freezer until you’re ready to serve.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Lush Slush is best served immediately after mixing with Squirt/Fresca or 7up/Sprite. Serve in tall glasses with a cherry garnish for a festive presentation. Since the drink contains alcohol, be sure to serve responsibly and offer non-alcoholic options for those who prefer them.

If you have leftover slush, you can store it in the freezer for up to a month. However, keep in mind that the alcohol content may prevent it from freezing completely solid, so it may become more like a thick syrup over time. If this happens, simply stir it well before serving. It’s not recommended to store the mixed drink (slush and soda) as the soda will lose its carbonation and the drink will become diluted.

Nutritional Information

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	183 kcal	9%
Total Fat	0.1g	0%
Saturated Fat	0g	0%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	3.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate	29.5g	9%
Dietary Fiber	0.1g	0%
Sugars	29g	116%
Protein	0.4g	0%

Variations & Substitutions

• Non-Alcoholic Version: For a family-friendly version, substitute the rum or brandy with white grape juice or sparkling cider. This will still provide a delicious fruity flavor without the alcohol.
• Different Juices: Experiment with different combinations of frozen juice concentrates. Try using pineapple juice, cranberry juice, or limeade for a unique twist.
• Seasonal Fruit: In the summer, add fresh berries or sliced peaches to the mixture for a burst of seasonal flavor. In the fall, consider adding a splash of apple cider.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture for a warm, festive flavor.
• Citrus Zest: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the mixture for a brighter, more aromatic flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of alcohol besides rum or brandy?
A: Absolutely! Vodka or tequila would also work well in this recipe. Just be mindful of how the flavor of the alcohol will complement the fruit juices.

Q: How do I prevent the slush from freezing too solid?
A: The key is to stir the mixture every few hours as it freezes. This helps to break up the ice crystals and create a slushy consistency.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a smaller batch?
A: Yes, you can easily halve or quarter the recipe to make a smaller batch. Just be sure to adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly.

Q: What if I don’t have Squirt/Fresca or 7up/Sprite on hand?
A: Any lemon-lime soda will work well in this recipe. You could even use ginger ale for a slightly different flavor.

Q: Can I add fresh fruit to the slush before freezing?
A: Yes, adding fresh fruit can add a burst of flavor and visual appeal. Just be sure to choose fruits that freeze well, such as berries or sliced peaches.

Final Thoughts

Lush Slush is more than just a drink; it’s a memory in a glass. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or simply looking for a refreshing treat on a hot summer day, this recipe is sure to please. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own unique version. And most importantly, enjoy the process of creating and sharing this delicious drink with friends and family. Cheers to good times and great slush!