Name: Lushie Slushie Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 24 h 15 min
Yield: 16
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 9 cups water; 2 cups white sugar; 5 tea bags; 6 oz frozen lemonade concentrate; 6 oz frozen orange juice concentrate; 2 cups Bourbon; 33 oz ginger ale; 16 mint sprigs

Indulge in a refreshing and spirited treat with this lushie slushie recipe. Perfect for warm days, this icy concoction blends the classic flavors of lemonade, orange juice, and bourbon, creating an invigorating drink that’s sure to impress your guests.

Photos of Lushie Slushie Recipe

If you’re heading to the supermarket, take note that you might not commonly have frozen lemonade concentrate, frozen orange juice concentrate, or bourbon at home. These ingredients are essential for the lushie slushie, so be sure to add them to your shopping list.

Ingredients For Lushie Slushie Recipe

Water: Forms the base of the slushie mixture.

White sugar: Sweetens the drink.

Tea bags: Adds a subtle tea flavor to the mix.

Frozen lemonade concentrate: Provides a tangy citrus flavor.

Frozen orange juice concentrate: Adds a sweet and zesty note.

Bourbon: Gives the slushie its spirited kick.

Ginger ale: Adds effervescence and a hint of ginger flavor.

Mint sprigs: Used for garnish, adding a fresh aroma and taste.

One reader, Ema Roark says:

This lushie slushie recipe is a game-changer! The perfect blend of sweet and tangy with a refreshing bourbon kick. It’s easy to make and ideal for summer gatherings. The mint garnish adds a delightful touch. Highly recommend!

Ema Roark

Techniques Required for Making a Lushie Slushie

Yes.

How to dissolve sugar in water: Bring water to a low boil and stir in sugar until it dissolves completely. How to steep tea: Add tea bags to hot water and let them sit off the heat for about 5 minutes. How to mix concentrates and liquids: Combine the tea mixture, lemonade concentrate, orange juice concentrate, and bourbon in a large container. How to freeze and break slush: Place the mixture in the freezer, breaking it into smaller pieces every few hours until it reaches a slushy consistency. How to serve slushie: Scoop the slush into a glass, top with ginger ale, and garnish with mint sprigs.

How To Make Lushie Slushie

This slushie recipe yields the right sweetness and kick of booze, from the lemonade and orange juice concentrate, and ginger ale!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 5 minutes

Freeze Time: 1 day

Total: 1 day 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

9cupswater
2cupswhite sugar
5tea bags
6ozfrozen lemonade concentrate,(1 can), thawed
6ozfrozen orange juice concentrate,(1 can), thawed
2cupsbourbon
33ozginger ale,(1 bottle), or as needed
16mint sprigs

Instructions

Bring the water to a low boil in a large saucepan. Stir the sugar into the water to dissolve.
Add the tea bags to the water. Set aside off the heat to steep for 5 minutes.
Mix the tea mixture, lemonade concentrate, orange juice concentrate, and bourbon together in a large container.
Put the mixture in the freezer for about 24 hours, breaking the chunks into smaller pieces every few hours, until the consistency is slushy but kind of flaky, melty frozen.
Scoop a few large heaping spoonfuls of the slush into a glass. Top off with ginger ale and garnish with mint to serve. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 208.77kcal
Fat: 0.11g
Saturated Fat: 0.03g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.05g
Carbohydrates: 35.09g
Fiber: 0.88g
Sugar: 33.59g
Protein: 0.63g
Sodium: 14.51mg
Calcium: 90.56mg
Potassium: 121.43mg
Iron: 1.51mg
Vitamin A: 24.52µg
Vitamin C: 17.07mg

Key Technique for Achieving the Perfect Slushie Consistency

To achieve the perfect slushy consistency, make sure to stir the mixture every few hours while it's in the freezer. This helps break up the ice crystals evenly, ensuring a smooth and uniform texture when you serve the lushie slushie.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Slushie Recipe

Prepare the tea mixture in advance: Make the tea mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge to save time on the day of serving.

Use pre-made concentrates: Opt for store-bought lemonade concentrate and orange juice concentrate to cut down on preparation time.

Quick freeze method: Use a shallow container for freezing the mixture to speed up the freezing process and achieve the slushy consistency faster.

Batch preparation: Double the recipe and store extra slushie mixture in the freezer for future use, saving time on subsequent servings.

Substitute Ingredients For Lushie Slushie Recipe

water - Substitute with coconut water: Adds a subtle sweetness and extra electrolytes.
white sugar - Substitute with honey: Provides a natural sweetness and a bit of floral flavor.
tea bags - Substitute with green tea bags: Offers a lighter, more refreshing taste with added antioxidants.
frozen lemonade concentrate - Substitute with fresh lemon juice and simple syrup: Gives a fresher, more vibrant citrus flavor.
frozen orange juice concentrate - Substitute with fresh orange juice and simple syrup: Provides a fresher, more natural orange flavor.
bourbon - Substitute with dark rum: Adds a different depth of flavor with notes of caramel and spice.
ginger ale - Substitute with sparkling water and a splash of ginger syrup: Maintains the effervescence and ginger flavor with less sweetness.
mint sprigs - Substitute with basil leaves: Offers a different herbal note that pairs well with citrus and sweetness.

Presentation Tips for a Delightful Slushie

Serve in elegant glassware: Use a crystal-clear glass to showcase the vibrant colors of the slushie and ginger ale. The transparency will highlight the layers and textures.
Garnish with fresh mint: Place a sprig of mint on top of the slushie to add a touch of greenery and a refreshing aroma. Ensure the mint is fresh and vibrant.
Add a citrus twist: Include a thin slice of lemon or orange on the rim of the glass. This not only adds a pop of color but also complements the lemonade concentrate and orange juice concentrate flavors.
Use a silver spoon: Provide a small, elegant silver spoon for your guests to enjoy the slushie. The metallic sheen adds a touch of sophistication.
Chill the glass: Before serving, chill the glass in the freezer for a few minutes. This helps keep the slushie cold longer and enhances the overall experience.
Serve on a decorative tray: Present the glass on a beautifully decorated tray with a small napkin. This adds an extra layer of elegance and makes the presentation more cohesive.
Incorporate a straw: Add a stylish, reusable straw to the glass. This not only makes it easier to drink but also adds a modern touch to the presentation.
Create a layered effect: When scooping the slushie into the glass, aim for a layered look. This can be achieved by varying the sizes of the chunks, creating a visually appealing texture.
Top with a splash of ginger ale: Pour the ginger ale gently over the slushie to create a fizzy, effervescent top layer. This adds a delightful sparkle to the drink.
Serve immediately: Ensure the slushie is served immediately after preparation to maintain its perfect slushy consistency and refreshing taste.

Essential Tools for Making a Perfect Slushie

Large saucepan: used to bring the water to a low boil and dissolve the sugar.
Stirring spoon: necessary for stirring the sugar into the water until it dissolves.
Tea bags: steeped in the hot water to infuse the tea flavor.
Large container: used to mix the tea mixture, lemonade concentrate, orange juice concentrate, and bourbon together.
Freezer: essential for freezing the mixture to achieve the slushy consistency.
Spoon: for breaking the frozen mixture into smaller pieces every few hours.
Glass: used to serve the slushie.
Ginger ale: added to the slushie in the glass for a fizzy finish.
Mint sprigs: used as a garnish to enhance the presentation and flavor.

Storing and Freezing Tips for Slushies

Once the lushie slushie mixture is slushy and flaky, transfer it to a large, freezer-safe container with a tight-fitting lid. This will help prevent freezer burn and keep the slushie fresh for longer.
If you have limited freezer space, consider dividing the mixture into smaller, portion-sized containers. This way, you can easily remove and thaw only what you need for each serving.
When storing the lushie slushie in the freezer, make sure to leave some headspace in the container to allow for expansion as the mixture freezes.
To maintain the best texture and flavor, consume the frozen lushie slushie within 2-3 months. After this time, the mixture may start to develop ice crystals and lose its optimal consistency.
If the lushie slushie becomes too solid after prolonged freezing, let it thaw slightly in the refrigerator for 30-60 minutes before serving. This will make it easier to scoop and achieve the desired slushy consistency.
Pro tip: Freeze some of the lushie slushie mixture in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag for long-term storage. These pre-portioned cubes can be easily added to glasses and topped with ginger ale for a quick and convenient drink.

Random Fact About Slushies

A fun fact about this lushie slushie recipe is that the combination of bourbon and tea creates a unique flavor profile, blending the rich, smoky notes of the bourbon with the refreshing, earthy taste of the tea.

Is Making Slushies at Home Cost-Effective?

This lushie slushie recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The main expenses come from the bourbon, frozen lemonade concentrate, and frozen orange juice concentrate. The mint and ginger ale are relatively inexpensive. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30 USD. Given the unique and refreshing nature of this drink, the overall verdict would be a solid 7 out of 10.

Is This Slushie Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This lushie slushie recipe, while undeniably delicious and refreshing, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

High sugar content from the white sugar, lemonade concentrate, and orange juice concentrate
Significant alcohol content from the bourbon, which provides empty calories and can have negative health effects if consumed in excess
Ginger ale, which is a sugary soda that adds more empty calories and little nutritional value

However, the recipe does include some beneficial ingredients, such as:

Tea, which can provide antioxidants and other health benefits depending on the type used
Mint, which has anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in digestion

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of white sugar or replace it with a natural, low-calorie sweetener like stevia or monk fruit extract
Use fresh-squeezed lemon and orange juice instead of frozen concentrates, which often contain added sugars
Decrease the amount of bourbon or replace it with a lower-calorie alternative, such as vodka or gin
Swap the ginger ale for sparkling water or a sugar-free ginger-flavored seltzer to reduce the calorie and sugar content
Add more mint or other fresh herbs, such as basil or rosemary, to increase the nutritional value and flavor complexity of the drink
Consider adding fresh fruits, like berries or sliced citrus, to provide additional vitamins, minerals, and fiber

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and health-conscious version of this lushie slushie recipe without sacrificing too much of its delightful taste and texture.

Editor's Opinion on This Refreshing Slushie Recipe

This lushie slushie recipe is a delightful blend of refreshing flavors and a touch of bourbon warmth. The combination of tea, citrus concentrates, and ginger ale creates a balanced, invigorating drink perfect for summer gatherings. The process of freezing and breaking the mixture into a slushy consistency adds a fun, textural element. Garnishing with mint not only enhances the presentation but also adds a fresh aroma. Overall, it's a creative and enjoyable beverage that is sure to impress guests with its unique twist on a classic slushie.

Enhance Your Lushie Slushie Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad: Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad: Imagine the smoky sweetness of grilled peaches paired with the creamy decadence of burrata cheese. Add a sprinkle of fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze to create a symphony of flavors that will dance on your palate, perfectly complementing the lushie slushie.

Spicy Shrimp Tacos: Spicy Shrimp Tacos: Picture succulent shrimp marinated in a zesty blend of lime, garlic, and chili powder, then grilled to perfection. Nestled in warm corn tortillas and topped with a crunchy slaw and a dollop of avocado crema, these tacos bring a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the refreshing slushie.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus: Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus: Envision tender asparagus spears wrapped in salty, savory prosciutto and roasted until crispy. This elegant appetizer offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, making it a sophisticated sidekick to your lushie slushie.

Watermelon Feta Skewers: Watermelon Feta Skewers: Think juicy cubes of watermelon threaded onto skewers with tangy feta cheese and fresh mint leaves. This refreshing and visually stunning side dish provides a sweet and savory bite that harmonizes with the icy, boozy goodness of the slushie.

Caprese Stuffed Avocados: Caprese Stuffed Avocados: Imagine ripe avocados halved and filled with a vibrant mix of cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil, all drizzled with a touch of olive oil and balsamic reduction. This delightful dish offers a creamy, tangy, and herbaceous experience that pairs wonderfully with the lushie slushie.

Similar Refreshing Recipes to Try

Bourbon Peach Sweet Tea: Combine the southern charm of sweet tea with the rich flavor of bourbon and the juicy sweetness of peaches. This refreshing drink is perfect for a summer afternoon on the porch.

Mint Julep Slush: Transform the classic mint julep into a frosty delight. Blend bourbon, mint leaves, and a touch of sugar with ice for a refreshing twist on a traditional favorite.

Citrus Bourbon Punch: Mix bourbon with a medley of citrus juices like orange, lemon, and lime. Add a splash of ginger ale for fizz and garnish with citrus slices for a vibrant and zesty punch.

Frozen Arnold Palmer: Combine the best of both worlds with a frozen version of the Arnold Palmer. Blend lemonade and sweet tea with ice for a cool and refreshing drink that's perfect for hot days.

Spiked Lemonade: Elevate your lemonade game by adding a splash of bourbon. Serve over ice with a garnish of lemon slices and mint for a simple yet sophisticated summer beverage.

Why trust this Lushie Slushie Recipe:

This lushie slushie recipe is a refreshing twist on a classic summer drink. The combination of tea, lemonade concentrate, and orange juice concentrate creates a balanced, tangy flavor, while the bourbon adds a smooth, rich depth. Topped with ginger ale and garnished with fresh mint, it's perfect for any gathering. The step-by-step instructions ensure a foolproof process, making it easy for anyone to create this delightful treat. Trust this recipe for its simplicity, flavor, and the joy it brings to every sip.

Share your favorite Lushie Slushie creations and discuss tips and tricks for making the perfect icy treat in the Recipe Sharing forum.

FAQ:

How long does it take to make the lushie slushie?

It takes about 24 hours to make the lushie slushie because you need to freeze the mixture and break it into smaller pieces every few hours until it reaches the right slushy consistency.

Can I use a different type of alcohol instead of bourbon?

Absolutely! You can swap out the bourbon for another type of alcohol like rum or vodka if you prefer. Just keep in mind that it might change the flavor a bit.

Do I have to use both lemonade and orange juice concentrates?

Yes, using both lemonade and orange juice concentrates gives the lushie slushie its unique, tangy flavor. If you only use one, it might not taste the same.

How do I store any leftover slushie mixture?

You can keep any leftover slushie mixture in the freezer. Just make sure it's in an airtight container to prevent it from getting freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just break it up a bit and serve.

Is there a non-alcoholic version of this recipe?

Sure thing! You can make a non-alcoholic version by simply leaving out the bourbon. It will still be a tasty, refreshing slushie, perfect for everyone to enjoy.