Table of Contents
Cherry Blossom Cocktail is a celebration of spring in a glass, blending delicate floral notes with vibrant cherry and citrus flavors. This drink captures the beauty and freshness of cherry blossom season, offering a sip that’s both elegant and refreshing. Whether you’re toasting at a garden party or unwinding after a long day, this cocktail brings a touch of blossom-inspired magic to any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Blossom Cocktail
- Brings together cherry, citrus, and subtle floral notes for a uniquely balanced cocktail.
- Visually stunning with a soft pink hue and edible flower garnish, perfect for special gatherings.
- Flexible base—use gin, sake, or vodka depending on your taste and what’s in your home bar.
- Easy to make ahead for parties or to enjoy as a signature springtime happy hour drink.
- Pairs beautifully with light appetizers, sushi, or as a show-stopping brunch cocktail.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Beverage |
| Cuisine: | Healthy |
| Prep Time: | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 0 minutes |
| Total Time: | 10 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-Free |
| Serves: | 1 |
| Best Served: | Chilled |
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin or sake – Crisp, aromatic base (use sake for a Japanese twist)
- 1 oz cherry liqueur or tart cherry juice – Deep cherry flavor and color
- 0.5 oz lemon juice – Fresh citrus brightness
- 0.5 oz orange curaçao or elderflower liqueur – Floral and citrusy complexity
- 0.5 oz simple syrup or grenadine – Sweetness and a hint of pink
- 2 dashes orange bitters – Subtle aromatic depth
- Ice – For shaking
- Edible cherry blossoms or maraschino cherries – Optional, for garnish
Cherry Blossom Cocktail
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Chill your serving glass by filling it with ice water while you prepare the cocktail.
- Add all liquid ingredients to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
- Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds until well chilled.
- Discard the ice water from the glass and double strain the cocktail into the chilled glass.
- Garnish with an edible cherry blossom or maraschino cherry and serve immediately.
Notes
How to Make the Cherry Blossom Cocktail
Mixing a cherry blossom cocktail is a simple, sensory delight that comes together in just a few minutes.
Step 1: Prepare the Glass
Chill a coupe or martini glass by filling it with ice water while you make the cocktail.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Add gin or sake, cherry liqueur or juice, lemon juice, orange curaçao or elderflower liqueur, simple syrup or grenadine, and orange bitters to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
Step 3: Shake
Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds until well chilled and slightly frothy.
Step 4: Strain
Discard the ice water from your glass, then double strain the cocktail into the chilled glass.
Step 5: Garnish
Float an edible cherry blossom or maraschino cherry on top for a beautiful finish.
Step 6: Serve
Serve immediately and enjoy the floral aroma and spring-inspired flavor.
Step 7: Sip and Savor
Take a moment to appreciate the color, aroma, and taste—cheers to cherry blossom season!
Pro Tips for Making the Cherry Blossom Cocktail
- Use premium gin or sake for the cleanest, most nuanced flavor.
- If you can’t find cherry blossoms, use rose petals or a twist of lemon for a lovely garnish.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less simple syrup or grenadine to taste.
- Chill your glass well to keep the cocktail crisp and refreshing longer.
- For a lower-alcohol version, use more cherry juice and less spirit.
How to Serve Cherry Blossom Cocktail
This cocktail shines in a variety of settings—here are ten ways to enjoy it:
- As a signature drink at a spring brunch
- Paired with sushi or sashimi at a Japanese-inspired dinner
- Served in coupe glasses for a garden party
- With a pink sugar rim for a festive touch
- Alongside light appetizers like shrimp or cucumber canapés
- As a romantic Valentine’s Day or anniversary cocktail
- With a platter of macarons or delicate pastries
- As a welcome drink for guests at a celebration
- In a pitcher for easy serving at larger gatherings
- Garnished with edible flowers for a show-stopping presentation
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
• Store any leftover cocktail in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
• Shake or stir before serving again to refresh the flavors.
• Garnish just before serving for best appearance.
• Avoid storing with ice to prevent dilution.
Freezing
• Freeze the base mixture in ice cube trays for quick single-serve cocktails.
• Thaw cubes in a shaker and strain into a glass.
• Use frozen cubes in sparkling water for a mocktail twist.
• Store cubes in a freezer bag for up to 1 month.
Reheating
• This cocktail is best served chilled, not reheated.
• If you prefer a warm version, gently heat cherry juice and serve with lemon and honey as a mocktail.
• Avoid microwaving alcohol for safety and flavor.
• Always add garnishes after chilling or heating.
FAQs
What are the health benefits of cherry juice and citrus?
Cherry juice is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, while lemon juice adds a boost of vitamin C and aids hydration. Both ingredients offer a refreshing, nutrient-rich base for this cocktail.[Cherry] [Lemon] [Sakura] [Cocktail] [Healthline]
Can I substitute a major ingredient?
Yes! Swap gin for vodka or sake, use rose petals if cherry blossoms aren’t available, or try agave syrup instead of simple syrup for a different sweetness.[Gin]
How can I add flavor without extra calories?
Add a splash of sparkling water, fresh herbs like mint, or a few drops of orange blossom water for extra aroma without added sugar.[EatingWell]
Can I meal prep Cherry Blossom Cocktail?
Absolutely! Mix a large batch (without ice), store in the fridge, and shake individual servings with ice just before pouring and garnishing.
Final Thoughts
Cherry Blossom Cocktail is more than just a drink—it’s a toast to spring, beauty, and the fleeting joy of cherry blossom season. With its floral aroma, gentle sweetness, and stunning presentation, it’s sure to become a favorite for celebrations or quiet moments alike. Experiment with your own twists, share with friends, and savor the unique flavors this cocktail brings to your table.
