A Spider Bite Martini is a bold, fruity cocktail with just the right balance of sweet and tart. The combination of vodka, raspberry liqueur, and lime juice creates a crisp, refreshing drink with a little bite—hence the name! It’s a fun, slightly mysterious twist on a classic martini, perfect for a night in or impressing guests at a gathering.
Spider Bite Martini
I’ve made this cocktail countless times, and here’s a tip I’ve learned along the way: chilling your glass ahead of time makes a huge difference. It keeps the drink ice-cold longer, so you can savor every sip.
Ingredients
Makes 1 cocktail
Prep time: 5 minutes
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) vodka
- 1/2 oz (15ml) raspberry liqueur
- 1/2 oz (15ml) fresh lime juice
- 1/4 oz (7.5ml) simple syrup
- Ice
- Lime twist or fresh raspberries, for garnish
Glass: A chilled martini glass works best, but a coupette glass is a great alternative if you prefer a slightly rounder shape for the drink.
How to Make a Spider Bite Martini
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the vodka, raspberry liqueur, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds, until the mixture is well-chilled.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a lime twist or a few fresh raspberries for a pop of color.
Tip: Always use fresh lime juice—it makes a world of difference compared to bottled juice.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- If you’re making several cocktails, you can mix everything except the ice in advance and store it in the fridge. Just shake with ice when ready to serve.
- Leftover simple syrup can be kept in the fridge for up to one month—handy for future cocktails!
Variations & Substitutions
Want to switch things up? Try these fun variations:
Strawberry Spider Bite
- Swap raspberry liqueur for strawberry liqueur.
- Add a splash of white cranberry juice for extra brightness.
Chocolate Spider
- Replace raspberry liqueur with chocolate liqueur.
- Add a touch of creme de cacao for a rich, dessert-like twist.
Blueberry Web
- Use blueberry schnapps instead of raspberry liqueur.
- Swap lemon juice for lime juice for a slightly different citrus kick.
Virgin Spider Bite
- Mix raspberry syrup, lime juice, and soda water for a refreshing non-alcoholic version.
What to Serve with a Spider Bite Martini
This cocktail pairs well with:
- Spicy tapas – The crispness of the drink balances out bold, spicy flavors.
- Dark chocolate desserts – The fruitiness of the raspberry liqueur complements deep, rich chocolate.
- Cheese platter – A mix of creamy and sharp cheeses pairs beautifully with the drink’s bright, tart notes.
Tips for the Perfect Spider Bite Martini
- Chill your glass before pouring—just pop it in the freezer for a few minutes.
- Shake hard—this ensures the drink is cold and well-mixed.
- Adjust the sweetness—if you prefer a less sweet cocktail, reduce the simple syrup slightly.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights, and I hope you enjoy it just as much. Cheers! 🍸
