Cherry Blossom Gin Cocktail

Imagine this: a drink that’s as pretty as a picture and tastes like springtime in a glass.

That’s the Cherry Blossom Gin Cocktail for you.

This cocktail is a harmonious mix of delicate floral notes, a hint of citrusy zing, and a smooth gin base that ties it all together. It’s the kind of drink that makes you feel fancy without trying too hard.

I love this cocktail because it’s versatile and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for Valentine’s Day (hello, romantic vibes), a girls’ night in (gossip tastes better with gin), or even a chic baby shower (mocktail version available, too!).

Basically, anytime you want a drink that’s as Instagrammable as it is delicious, this is your go-to.

Ingredients You Need

• 2 oz gin (preferably floral or citrus-forward gin)
• 1 oz cherry blossom syrup (store-bought or homemade; more on this below)
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 oz Luxardo Maraschino liqueur
• Ice (for shaking and serving)
• Soda water (to top up, optional)
• Edible cherry blossoms or a lemon twist (for garnish)

Breaking Down the Ingredients:

Gin: The backbone of the cocktail. Opt for a floral or citrus-forward gin to complement the delicate cherry blossom flavors. Brands like Hendrick’s or The Botanist work wonders.

Cherry Blossom Syrup: This is the star of the show. You can buy it online or whip up a homemade version by simmering water, sugar, and cherry blossoms (fresh or dried) until fragrant. Think of it as a floral hug for your taste buds.

Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed, always. No bottled stuff here—we’re making magic, not lemonade from a vending machine. The lemon juice adds brightness and balance to the drink.

Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur: A little goes a long way. This Italian liqueur has a nutty, cherry-almond flavor that deepens the cocktail’s complexity. Plus, it makes you sound fancy when you mention it.

Ice: Don’t underestimate the importance of good ice. Large cubes are best for shaking because they chill without diluting too much.

Soda Water: Optional but recommended if you like a slightly lighter, bubbly cocktail. It adds an effervescent touch that’s oh-so-refreshing.

Garnish: Edible cherry blossoms add a wow factor, but a simple lemon twist will do the trick. Garnishes are like accessories—they’re not essential, but they elevate the look.

How to Make A Cherry Blossom Gin Cocktail

1. Gather Your Tools

You’ll need a cocktail shaker, a strainer, a jigger (or shot glass), and a pretty glass to serve your masterpiece. A coupe or martini glass works beautifully.

2. Prep Your Ingredients

Measure out your gin, cherry blossom syrup, lemon juice, and Luxardo liqueur. Squeeze that lemon fresh and give your syrup a quick stir to ensure it’s well-mixed.

3. Shake It Like You Mean It

Fill your shaker with ice, then add the gin, cherry blossom syrup, lemon juice, and Luxardo Maraschino liqueur. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. You’re aiming for a frosty, well-chilled mixture. Think of it as the cocktail’s warm-up routine.

4. Strain and Pour

Strain the mixture into your chosen glass. For an extra-smooth finish, use a fine mesh strainer to catch any ice shards or pulp.

5. Add a Sparkle (Optional)

If you’re feeling bubbly, top your drink with a splash of soda water. This step is optional, but it’s like adding glitter to an already fabulous outfit.

6. Garnish and Serve

Finish with your garnish of choice. An edible cherry blossom will make your drink a conversation piece, while a lemon twist adds a pop of color and citrus aroma.

7. Sip and Swoon

Take your first sip and let the delicate, floral flavors transport you to a sun-drenched garden. Cheers to you!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Cherry Blossom Gin Cocktail

• Chill Your Glass: Pop your glass in the freezer for a few minutes before pouring. A frosty glass keeps your cocktail cold and classy.
• Homemade Cherry Blossom Syrup: If you can’t find cherry blossoms, substitute with cherry-flavored tea or a mix of cherry juice and rosewater. It’s not traditional, but it’s delicious.
• Batch It for Parties: Multiply the ingredients by however many servings you need and mix everything (except the soda water) in a large pitcher. Shake individual servings with ice when you’re ready to serve.
• Mocktail Version: Swap the gin for a non-alcoholic botanical spirit and skip the Luxardo. Add a bit more soda water for balance.

Cherry Blossom Gin Cocktail Recipe

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