Valentine’s Day is typically one of the busiest nights of the year for restaurants and bars.
Not being one for crowded places on what is supposed to be a quiet romantic evening, I’ve compiled this list of Valentine’s Day-themed drinks you can make at home.
RED VELVET CAKE MARTINI
This is a great break from the boring-yet-classic martini. Picture this: You’ve just finished a scrumptious, home-cooked meal. What’s for dessert? Booze! And it’s delicious.
- 5 ounces Whipped Cream Vodka
- 5 ounces Creme De Cocoa
- 1 tablespoon Red Velvet Cake Mix
- 6 ounces milk
- 1 Ice Cube
- Cream cheese icing for garnish (optional)
LOVE MARTINI
What’s the difference between “like” and “love”? Some say alcohol. This Love Martini is a little more involved, but it’s made with common, easy-to-find ingredients that won’t cost you a lot of money.
- \¾ ounce Malibu Rum
- ¾ ounce Peach Schapps
- ¾ ounce Citron Vodka or plain vodka
- 5 ounces cranberry juice
- Strawberries (optional)
- Lime wedge (optional)
- Sugar for rim garnish (optional)
Blend ingredients in a shaker and shake gently.
BERRY PUNCH
The holiday doesn’t have to be all about booze (though it often helps some of us get through it). This is a sweet and refreshing beverage that both kids and adults can enjoy. This drink is cheap, but requires a little extra preparation.
- 24 ounces frozen raspberries
- ¼ cup sugar
- 6 ounces frozen strawberry lemonade concentrate, thawed
- 1 bottle Sprite or 7-Up
- Ice
- Frozen sorbet
- Strawberries for garnish (optional)
Heat the raspberries and sugar in a saucepan on medium heat for about five minutes. Refrigerate the puree for two hours. Once properly chilled, combine the puree, strawberry lemonade concentrate and soda in a large pitcher over ice. Add a few scoops of sorbet. Garnish with strawberries.
