Valentine’s Mocktails: Raspberry Fizz for Two

A Valentine’s mocktail can be as simple as raspberries and lemon. Fruit provides the red colour while a small syrup measure balances acidity.

A practical recipe

For two glasses, crush and sieve 120 g raspberries. Stir with 30 ml lemon juice and 20 ml simple syrup. Divide between two glasses of ice and add 130 ml soda to each. Garnish with a fresh raspberry.

Plan the preparation

Prepare the purée so serving only requires topping up. A smaller glass makes the drink feel more concentrated and works before dinner. Use the same fruit base for both portions to keep sweetness and acidity consistent.

Flavour and variations

Replace 10 ml of the simple syrup with elderflower cordial for a floral note. If using culinary rose water, follow its directions and add sparingly because it quickly overwhelms berries. A straightforward fruit version often tastes clearer.

Preparation and serving

Chill the ingredients before mixing. Keep the juice base and sparkling ingredients separate until serving. Put ice in individual glasses where possible so a large pitcher does not dilute throughout the event. Stir any fruit-purée base before dividing it between glasses.

Make a small trial serving first. Juices, nectars and sodas vary in sweetness; once the ratio works, scale it up. Record the final quantities so the next pitcher tastes consistent.

Common question

Can I use sparkling wine instead of soda? Yes, choose a non-alcoholic version. Test a small portion because its sweetness may change how much syrup you need.

More small serves: raspberry mocktail and Bellini .

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• Mocktails
• Recipes