Some cocktails are swanky, some are strong, and some—like Cupid’s Arrow—are just plain fun. What I love about this drink is how simple it is: a little gin, a little raspberry, a squeeze of lemon … shake it up and you’ve got a drink that looks far more impressive than the effort it required. It’s perfect for date night at home, but it’s just as good shared with friends or sipped while you’re cooking dinner and pretending you have it all together.
The homemade raspberry syrup may sound fancy, but it’s surprisingly easy—and it makes the drink. You just toss everything in a pot, let it do its thing, and strain. It gives the cocktail that gorgeous blush color and just the right touch of sweetness. Top it with club soda and a few raspberries, and you’ve got a cocktail that feels like a Valentine from your bar cart.
Cupid’s Arrow fits perfectly into our Love Local issue because it celebrates small moments and the people who make them meaningful. Whether you’re toasting with your partner, clinking glasses with friends, or enjoying a quiet moment to yourself, this simple, pretty cocktail brings a little extra joy to the table.
Cupid's Arrow Cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 ounces gin
- ¾ ounce raspberry syrup
- ½ ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Club soda
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup raspberries (frozen works great)
Directions
1. Make the raspberry syrup:
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to medium-low
- Add sugar and raspberries, stirring until the sugar dissolves
- Simmer for 15 minutes to let the berries infuse
- Strain through a fine mesh sieve and let cool before using
2. Shake the gin, raspberry syrup, and lemon juice with ice and strain into a chilled coupe glass
3. Top with club soda and garnish with fresh raspberries
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