Cherry Blossom Martini – Spring is a season of renewal, color, and delicate beauty — and nothing captures that spirit quite like the Cherry Blossom Martini. Inspired by the ethereal pink blooms that signal the arrival of spring in Japan and beyond, this cocktail is as visually stunning as it is refreshing. The Cherry Blossom Martini combines floral notes, subtle sweetness, and a crisp, clean finish, making it an ideal drink for springtime celebrations, romantic evenings, or elegant gatherings.
Recipe Overview
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Active Time: 5 minutes
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Resting Time: 10 minutes (optional chilling time)
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Total Time: 25 minutes
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Cuisine: Japanese-inspired / Modern Cocktail
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Course: Beverage / Cocktail
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Servings: 2
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Calories: 210 kcal per serving
Ingredients
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2 oz vodka (preferably premium or floral-infused)
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1 oz cherry blossom syrup (or grenadine for a substitute)
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½ oz Luxardo cherry liqueur or maraschino liqueur
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½ oz fresh lemon juice
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¼ oz rose water or elderflower liqueur (optional for floral notes)
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1 oz sake (optional for a softer Japanese twist)
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Ice cubes
For Garnish:
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Edible cherry blossom or rose petals
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Maraschino cherry or fresh cherry
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Lemon twist (optional)
Equipment Needed
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Cocktail shaker
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Jigger or measuring tool
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Fine mesh strainer
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Martini glasses (chilled)
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Bar spoon
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Small plate or bowl for garnishing
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Glasses
Start by chilling your martini glasses. Place them in the freezer for about 10 minutes or fill them with ice water while you prepare the drink. This ensures your cocktail stays crisp and refreshing.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a cocktail shaker, add vodka, cherry blossom syrup, cherry liqueur, lemon juice, and rose water or sake (if using). Fill the shaker halfway with ice cubes. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients thoroughly.
Step 3: Strain and Serve
Remove the ice water from the martini glasses if used. Using a fine mesh strainer, pour the shaken mixture into the chilled glasses to achieve a silky-smooth texture. The cocktail should display a delicate blush-pink hue reminiscent of spring cherry blossoms.
Step 4: Garnish with Elegance
Garnish with a maraschino cherry, an edible blossom, or a lemon twist for a visually stunning presentation. If you have edible flowers, gently float one on top — it adds an exquisite touch that completes the theme.
Step 5: Sip and Enjoy
Enjoy your Cherry Blossom Martini immediately. Take in the fragrance before the first sip — you’ll notice floral, fruity, and slightly citrus notes that dance together perfectly.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 16 g |
| Sugars | 13 g |
| Protein | 0.2 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Sodium | 5 mg |
| Alcohol | ~15 g |
Tips for the Perfect Cherry Blossom Martini
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Choose the Right Vodka:
A high-quality vodka or one infused with floral or vanilla notes works beautifully. Avoid overly harsh or peppery vodkas. -
Make Your Own Cherry Blossom Syrup:
Combine ½ cup sugar, ½ cup water, and 1 tbsp cherry blossom extract (or a few preserved blossoms). Heat until dissolved, then cool. This creates a fragrant homemade syrup. -
Balance Sweetness and Tartness:
Adjust lemon juice or syrup amounts to your taste. More lemon juice for tartness, more syrup for sweetness. -
Add a Sparkling Twist:
For a lighter version, top with a splash of sparkling water or prosecco before serving. -
Keep It Cold:
The martini’s clean flavor relies on being served icy cold. Always chill both your ingredients and glassware.
Why You’ll Love This Drink
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Visually Stunning: Its soft pink hue and floral garnish make it irresistible.
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Elegant and Aromatic: Each sip feels luxurious, with delicate cherry and rose notes.
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Easy to Make: Requires simple ingredients and minimal effort.
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Customizable: Adjust sweetness, citrus, or alcohol strength to your liking.
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Perfect for Entertaining: A show-stopper cocktail that impresses every guest.
Conclusion
The Cherry Blossom Martini is more than just a cocktail — it’s a celebration of elegance, balance, and nature’s fleeting beauty. With its harmonious blend of cherry sweetness, floral undertones, and crisp citrus finish, it’s a drink that evokes the delicate allure of spring in every sip.
