Strawberry Schnapps is a syrupy, strawberry-flavored liqueur made from a neutral grain spirit with strawberry fruit flavor. The alcohol content of this drink varies between 15 to 50 percent ABV

Strawberry Schnapps

What is Strawberry Schnapps?

Strawberry Schnapps is a syrupy, strawberry-flavored liqueur made from a neutral grain spirit with strawberry fruit flavor. The alcohol content of this drink varies between 15 to 50 percent ABV, depending on the manufacturer. It may be consumed neat or in a cocktail.

  • Strawberry Schnapps has a sweet flavor, allowing it to also be consumed chilled as a dessert drink.
  • Schnapps is the national drink of Austria, with some other common flavors including apple and peach Schnapps.

Some popular drinks or cocktails made using Strawberry Schnapps are:

  • Strawberry Margarita
  • Strawberry Fizz
  • Strawberry Dream Cocktail
  • The Dragon
  • Strawberry Kiss
  • Tickle Me Elmo
  • Strawberry Fetish

Origin of strawberry schnapps

Schnapps was invented to prevent the use of undistilled water. Fruits began to be used for preparing this alcoholic drink, which had become widespread after the invention of the copper pot in the 18th century. However, it is important to note that fruits in Austria are less sweet due to climatic and soil conditions. In the 1700s, Maria Theresa, Marie Antoinette’s mother, promoted the production of Schnapps to increase government taxes. Today, Schnapps is produced using a variety of fruits, including strawberries.

Nutrition

The nutritional profile for a 30 ml serving of Strawberry Schnapps is:

Like any other alcoholic drink, strawberry Schnapps has its downsides. Overconsumption of this drink can result in a change in the brain’s functioning patterns, liver cirrhosis, pancreatitis, heart problems, strokes, different types of cancers, as well as affect overall immunity. This beverage should be consumed responsibly and in moderation.

Commercial production

To prepare Schnapps, the strawberries are harvested and cleaned before being mashed. Water is added to the mash, which is then left to ferment in a warm area. After 20 to 45 days, the alcohol is distilled and then allowed to settle. Finally, the finished product is bottled.

When purchasing Schnapps, it is common to encounter 4 different labels. The American label refers to US-produced liqueur made by mixing flavorings and sugar with a neutral grain spirit. Imported German label is distilled liqueur made from fermented fruit. Original recipe means the Schnapps has been prepared using a homemade recipe and is often a craft liqueur. Premium refers to unsweetened Schnapps.

This liqueur can lose its flavor over time and must be discarded when it develops an unseemly smell, flavor, or appearance. It is best to store strawberry Schnapps in a cool and dry area away from sunlight and in an airtight container.

Strawberry schnapps recipes

Schnapps is often served neat and is an after-dinner drink, served at room temperature. A small flute glass in tulip shape is best for serving this drink. Also, this alcoholic beverage works well in preparing cocktails and in cooking or baking.

FDA regulations

All alcohol related products are regulated by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) in the US. There is no specific classification for strawberry Schnapps probably due to its uncommon nature.

References

Sarah Holden, Schnapps: All You Need To Know About Austria’s National Drink, Tourist Secrets, https://www.touristsecrets.com/travel-guide/food-travel/schnapps-everything-about-austrias-national-drink/ 

Is it time to rethink how much you drink?, Harvard Health Publishing, Harvard Medical School, https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/is-it-time-to-rethink-how-much-you-drink