White Tea Shot Recipe: A Refreshing Vodka Cocktail

A White Tea Shot typically contains vodka, peach schnapps, sour mix, and a splash of cranberry juice, creating a sweet and tangy flavor profile.

The White Tea Shot is a sweet, citrusy cocktail that’s perfect for parties or casual gatherings. Despite its name, this drink contains no actual tea – it gets its moniker from its light color and refreshing taste. This vodka-based shot has gained popularity as a smoother alternative to whiskey-based shots like the Green Tea Shot.

What’s in a White Tea Shot?

The classic White Tea Shot contains four key ingredients that create its signature sweet-and-sour flavor profile:

• Vodka (1 oz) – The clear base spirit that keeps the drink “white”
• Peach schnapps (1 oz) – Adds fruity sweetness
• Sour mix (1 oz) – Provides tart balance (or use lemon/lime juice + simple syrup)
• Lemon-lime soda (splash) – Typically Sprite or 7Up for fizz

Ingredient Variations and Substitutions

While the traditional recipe is delicious, there are several ways to customize your White Tea Shot:

Ingredient	Substitution Options
Vodka	White rum, gin, or tequila
Peach schnapps	Apricot brandy or peach vodka
Sour mix	Equal parts lemon juice, lime juice, and simple syrup
Sprite/7Up	Any lemon-lime soda or even ginger ale

How to Make the Perfect White Tea Shot

Follow these simple steps for a well-balanced cocktail:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes
2. Add 1 oz vodka, 1 oz peach schnapps, and 1 oz sour mix
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to chill and dilute properly
4. Strain into chilled shot glasses (about 2 oz per glass)
5. Top each shot with a splash of lemon-lime soda
6. Garnish with a citrus wedge if desired

Pro Tips for Best Results

For an exceptional White Tea Shot experience:

• Chill your shot glasses in the freezer beforehand
• Use freshly squeezed citrus juice for the sour mix when possible
• Don’t shake the soda – add it after shaking the other ingredients
• Consider using high-quality lemon juice for better flavor

White Tea Shot vs. Green Tea Shot

While these two popular shots share similar names and preparation methods, they have distinct differences:

Characteristic	White Tea Shot	Green Tea Shot
Base Spirit	Vodka	Jameson Irish Whiskey
Color	Clear/white	Light green/yellow
Flavor Profile	Peach-forward, citrusy	More herbal, whiskey-forward
Alcohol Content	Slightly lower (about 20% ABV)	Higher (about 25% ABV)

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Batch Preparation

For parties, you can easily scale up this recipe. Mix equal parts vodka, peach schnapps, and sour mix in a large pitcher (without ice). When ready to serve, shake individual portions with ice and top with soda. The base mixture will keep for up to 2 weeks refrigerated.

Cocktail Version

Turn your shot into a full cocktail by:

• Doubling the recipe
• Serving over ice in a rocks glass
• Adding more soda for a longer drink
• Garnishing with fresh peach slices

For those who enjoy blended drinks, consider using a quality blender to create a frozen version.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it called a White Tea Shot if there’s no tea?

The name comes from the drink’s pale color, similar to white tea. It’s part of a trend of tea-named cocktails that don’t actually contain tea, like the Green Tea Shot.

How strong is a White Tea Shot?

At about 20% ABV, it’s slightly less potent than straight liquor shots but stronger than most cocktails. The sweetness makes it easy to drink, so pace yourself.

Can I make a non-alcoholic version?

Yes! Substitute the vodka with white grape juice or soda water, use peach syrup instead of schnapps, and keep the citrus and soda elements.

What’s the best vodka for White Tea Shots?

A clean, neutral vodka like Tito’s or Ketel One works well. Flavored vodkas (citrus or vanilla) can add interesting dimensions.

How do I make my own sour mix?

Combine equal parts simple syrup (1:1 sugar:water), lemon juice, and lime juice. For a professional touch, consider using a citrus juicer to extract maximum flavor.