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