Love Potion Cranberry Raspberry Mocktail (Print version)

Vibrant, refreshing non-alcoholic drink with cranberry and raspberry. Perfect for special occasions or romantic evenings. Easy!

# Ingredient List:

→ Fresh Produce

01 - 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
02 - 1/4 cup fresh cranberries (or thawed frozen)

→ Beverage Bases

03 - 1/2 cup 100% cranberry juice (unsweetened preferred)
04 - 1/4 cup raspberry juice (or substitute with extra cranberry juice if unavailable)

→ Sweetener

05 - 1 to 2 tablespoons simple syrup or agave nectar, to taste

→ Acid

06 - 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice

→ Effervescence

07 - 1 cup chilled sparkling water or club soda

→ Garnish (optional)

08 - Extra fresh raspberries and cranberries
09 - Lime wheels
10 - Fresh mint sprigs

# How To Make It:

01 - In a cocktail shaker or large glass, gently muddle the fresh raspberries and cranberries until thoroughly crushed and their juices are released.
02 - Add the cranberry juice, raspberry juice, initial portion of simple syrup (1 tablespoon), and fresh lime juice to the shaker. Stir or shake vigorously to combine all components.
03 - Fill two serving glasses with ice. Carefully strain the blended mixture into the prepared glasses, distributing any desired fruit pulp evenly.
04 - Gently pour chilled sparkling water or club soda over the mixture in each glass. Stir lightly to integrate.
05 - Taste the mocktail and add more simple syrup if a sweeter profile is desired.
06 - Embellish each mocktail with extra berries, a lime wheel, and a fresh mint sprig, as preferred. Serve immediately for optimal freshness.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It's a showstopper visually, making any occasion feel a little more special without any alcohol.
  • You can whip up this gorgeous, refreshing drink in mere minutes, making it perfect for spontaneous celebrations or quiet evenings alike.
02 -
  • While muddling, avoid overdoing it; a gentle crush is all you need to release the juices and essential oils without introducing bitterness from the fruit seeds or pith.
  • Always taste your mocktail before adding all the sweetener; the natural sweetness of berries varies, and a little lime can often balance tartness better than more sugar.
03 -
  • To ensure your mocktail stays refreshingly cold without becoming diluted too quickly, always chill all your liquid ingredients thoroughly before you begin mixing.
  • If you're preparing for a gathering, make a larger batch of the berry and juice base ahead of time, then simply add the sparkling water and garnishes right before serving.