Love Potion #9 is one of those cocktails that feels like it was made for special nights. It’s fruity, a little sweet, with just the right touch of tartness—and it looks just as lovely as it tastes. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it never fails to impress, whether it’s for a cozy night in or a festive get-together with friends.
Love Potion #9
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1 cocktail (easily scaled up)
Glassware: Martini glass or coupe glass
Storage: Best served fresh, but you can mix ahead (see tips below)
Ingredients
– 1 oz (30 ml) vodka
– 2 oz (60 ml) cranberry juice
– 1 oz (30 ml) peach schnapps
– 1 oz (30 ml) orange juice
– Dash of grenadine (about 1/4 tsp)
– Ice
– Optional garnish: orange slice, cherry, or mint sprig
Method
- Chill your glass. Pop your martini or coupe glass in the freezer while you prep the drink. A cold glass keeps it crisp and refreshing.
- Shake the ingredients. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, cranberry juice, peach schnapps, and orange juice. Fill the shaker halfway with ice. Put the lid on and shake it well—about 15 seconds—until the outside feels frosty.
- Strain and pour. Take your chilled glass out and strain the drink into it. You’ll get a smooth, jewel-toned pour.
- Add the grenadine. Gently pour in a dash of grenadine. It’ll sink a bit, giving the drink a gorgeous layered look and a touch of extra sweetness.
- Garnish (optional). Add a cherry, orange slice, or a fresh mint sprig to dress it up.
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh juice if you can—especially orange juice. It makes a big difference in taste.
– Don’t skip the ice in your shaker. It chills and slightly dilutes the drink, balancing the sweetness.
– Make it ahead: Mix everything except the grenadine and store it in the fridge. Add the grenadine and garnish just before serving.
– Want it lighter? Use light cranberry juice or add a splash of soda water to cut the sweetness.
Flavor Notes
This cocktail is fruity, bright, and slightly tangy. The cranberry brings a tart backbone, peach schnapps adds a juicy softness, and orange juice rounds it out with citrusy freshness. The grenadine gives it that final pop of sweetness and a beautiful blush color.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio. It’s easy to make, but feels a little fancy—like a treat without the fuss.
Ingredient Swaps
– No peach schnapps? Try raspberry liqueur or triple sec.
– Want a deeper flavor? Swap vodka for spiced rum or coconut rum.
– For a non-alcoholic version, skip the vodka and schnapps. Use the juices and grenadine, and top with sparkling water.
Fun Variations
Love Potion #9.5
– Swap peach schnapps for raspberry liqueur.
– Adds a berry twist and a slightly richer flavor.
Tropical Love Potion
– Use coconut rum instead of vodka.
– Mix with pineapple and mango juices for a beachy feel.
Winter Love Potion
– Try spiced rum and pomegranate juice.
– Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for cozy vibes.
Virgin Love Potion #9
– Mix cranberry, orange juice, and a splash of grenadine over ice.
– Add soda water for fizz. It’s just as pretty and tasty, no alcohol needed.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Love Potion #9 with:
– Spicy appetizers like jalapeño poppers or spicy shrimp. The sweetness of the drink balances the heat.
– Chocolate desserts—brownies, chocolate mousse, or truffles are all great companions.
– Cheese boards with creamy brie, sharp cheddar, or goat cheese. The tangy-sweet cocktail matches beautifully.
FAQs
Can I make a pitcher for a party?
Yes! Multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need. Mix everything except the grenadine and chill it. Pour into glasses and add grenadine and garnish when serving.
Can I use frozen fruit?
Absolutely. Frozen raspberries or strawberries can chill the drink and add a fun twist. They’re great as an edible garnish, too.
How do I garnish it nicely?
A cherry or orange slice is classic. A sprig of mint adds a fresh aroma. You can even rim the glass with sugar for extra sparkle.
Is there a healthier version?
Use 100% juice with no added sugar and a splash of soda water. You can also use agave syrup instead of grenadine for a more natural sweetener.
Love Potion #9 is a cocktail that’s as fun to make as it is to drink. It’s easy to tweak to your taste, and the flavors are crowd-pleasers every time. Whether you’re mixing one for yourself or making a batch for friends, it’s the kind of drink that turns any moment into something a little more magical.
