Lately, I’ve been on a bit of a homemade cocktail kick, and I just have to share the standout I keep coming back to: the Raspberry Kiss. It’s light, fruity, and has that perfect tangy-sweet balance that makes you crave another sip. Honestly, I wish I’d discovered this years ago, but now it’s my weekend staple.
The first time I mixed up this drink for friends, it basically disappeared in minutes – and the requests for “the recipe” started pouring in. Something about that blend of raspberry and lemon, plus a gentle fizz from soda water, just clicks. I’ve experimented a bit, tweaking things here and there, and now I think I’ve landed on my ideal version.
Strength & Profile
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What makes the Raspberry Kiss so great is its versatility. It feels just right at a laid-back BBQ but is equally at home at a more festive gathering. I’ve served this at summer parties, impromptu happy hours, even over the holidays – and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
From what I’ve gathered, the drink probably took off back in the ‘90s when bartenders started going wild with fresh fruits. The exact backstory isn’t crystal clear, but it’s earned its place as a modern favorite – especially once the weather starts warming up.
For presentation, I love pouring it into a chilled martini glass with a few raspberries floating on top. It’s seriously pretty, but it’s more than just looks; the wide rim lets the berry aroma hit you with every sip, which makes the whole thing feel special.
Ingredients & Glassware
- 2 ounces vodka
- 1 ounce raspberry liqueur
- 1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice
- 2 ounces soda water
- Fresh raspberries (for garnish)
I’m partial to a classic martini glass, but a coupe works beautifully too. Both show off that vibrant color and really let the scent of raspberries pop.
How to Make a Raspberry Kiss
- Load up a cocktail shaker with ice. Pour in the vodka, raspberry liqueur, and lemon juice.
- Shake it up until the shaker feels icy and cold in your hands – about 15 seconds.
- Strain into your chilled glass.
- Top with the soda water. Stir very gently (just enough to mix, but don’t knock out all the bubbles!).
- Drop a few raspberries in as a finishing touch.
For anyone looking for a mocktail version, swap the vodka and liqueur for about 1 1/2 ounces of raspberry syrup, then give it a healthy splash more soda water. It’s just as refreshing.
And if you’re thinking food pairings, you’re in luck: this is a versatile pour. I love it alongside anything chocolate (raspberry + chocolate = always a win), but it also pairs well with a cheese board, or even grilled chicken when you’re outside in the summer.
A couple of quick tips: Pop your glass in the freezer about 10 minutes before making the drink – totally worth it for that icy finish. When raspberries are out of season, frozen ones work like a charm and keep your drink cold too.
Craving something different? I’ve swapped the vodka for gin for a little botanical twist and tried lime juice in place of lemon. One of my favorite riffs is topping the drink with a splash of champagne instead of soda water – a “Raspberry Royale.” That’s now a tradition at my place every New Year’s Eve.
But the best part about cocktails at home is experimenting. Start with the classic, tweak it to your taste, and don’t be afraid to get creative. Some of the best drinks I’ve ever made came from happy accidents. Cheers!
