Drinks That Look Fancy but Take 90 Seconds: Impress Without the Stress

Some days you want to feel like you’ve got your life together- even if dinner is beans on toast and you’ve just stepped on a rogue piece of Lego. That’s where the 90-second fancy drink comes in. These are the sippers that look like you’ve put in effort, but secretly took less time than brushing your teeth (if you’re doing it properly).

Here’s a line-up of posh-looking beverages that’ll fool your guests, your Instagram followers, and maybe even yourself.

The Fauxjito

Chuck a handful of mint leaves into a glass, muddle them like you’re angry (or just use the end of a wooden spoon), squeeze in half a lime, pour over some soda water and a splash of elderflower cordial or sugar syrup. Add ice. Chuck in another mint leaf or two for show. Done.

Looks like: You’ve just come back from a yoga retreat.

Takes: Less time than it took to read this paragraph.

The Garden Spritz

Grab a wine glass. Half-fill with tonic water, add a splash of apple juice or elderflower, and throw in a few cucumber ribbons, a strawberry or two, or literally anything green. Top with ice and boom - instant summer in a glass.

Looks like: You grow your own herbs and probably own a wide-brimmed hat.

Takes: 90 seconds, even if you faff around arranging the cucumber just so.

The Faux Champagne Fizz

Pour chilled sparkling water into a flute, add a splash of peach or raspberry cordial, and drop in a frozen berry or two. That’s it. It bubbles, it sparkles, it fools absolutely everyone.

Looks like: Champagne.

Takes: 30 seconds. Use the spare minute to toast yourself.

Final Sip of Wisdom

Being fancy isn’t about faff - it’s about flair. Keep a couple of garnishes in your fridge, some cordial in the cupboard, and a smug look at the ready. With these in your arsenal, you can serve up drinks that say “ooh la la” without needing a degree in mixology or a dishwasher full of cocktail kit.