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Lovebug Cocktail

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Waking up to find Max already setting out the fresh mint sprigs for garnish is a sure sign it is time for our favorite Lovebug Cocktail. This vibrant drink is our favorite way to celebrate a February evening; and Max loves to help with the "sparkly sugar" rims for his own berry juice version. It is a beautiful family habit that turns a simple romantic night into a bright; berry-filled celebration.

A stunning layered Valentine's cocktail featuring tart raspberry, fresh lemon, and a silky foam topper. Garnished with fresh mint and a whimsical 'lovebug' for a flirty, festive touch.
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Valentine's Day Lovebug Cocktail in a crystal-cut coupe glass with three beautiful gradient layers: deep raspberry red at the bottom, pale pink in the middle, and white creamy foam on top with a sugar-frosted rim. The cocktail is garnished with three fresh raspberries dusted with powdered sugar, fresh mint leaves, a decorative ladybug, and a lemon wheel, all arranged on a cocktail pick. The drink sits on a white marble surface with additional sugared raspberries and mint scattered around the base. A whole lemon is positioned behind the glass, with soft-focus pink flowers on both sides. The background features a dreamy purple-to-pink gradient bokeh with darker purple tones at the edges.
Valentine's Day Lovebug Cocktail in a crystal-cut coupe glass with three beautiful gradient layers: deep raspberry red at the bottom, pale pink in the middle, and white creamy foam on top with a sugar-frosted rim. The cocktail is garnished with three fresh raspberries dusted with powdered sugar, fresh mint leaves, a decorative ladybug, and a lemon wheel, all arranged on a cocktail pick. The drink sits on a white marble surface with additional sugared raspberries and mint scattered around the base. A whole lemon is positioned behind the glass, with soft-focus pink flowers on both sides. The background features a dreamy purple-to-pink gradient bokeh with darker purple tones at the edges. Save it For Later
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Why You Will Love This Lovebug Cocktail

This drink offers a perfect balance of tart fruit and silky foam; providing a refreshing zing that is both visually stunning and incredibly elegant. It is a simple way to elevate any romantic evening; and the striking pink layers make it a showstopper for any Valentine's Day party or cozy night in.

How To Make Lovebug Cocktail

The Lovebug Cocktail is a modern; berry-forward twist on a classic Valentini cocktail; featuring a vibrant layered base and a whimsical ladybug garnish. This specific version uses a blend of raspberry-infused spirits and citrus to create that signature "blush" profile that has become a trending favorite for February cocktails. Originally inspired by sophisticated lounge drinks; this recipe has been refined for home kitchens to be quick; repeatable; and absolutely stunning.

Lovebug Cocktail Ingredients

  • 2 ounces raspberry vodka or light rum -
  • 1 ounce fresh lemon juice -
  • ½ ounce simple syrup -
  • ½ ounce raspberry liqueur (for layering) -
  • 1 egg white (for the frothy foam) -
  • Fresh raspberries and mint sprigs (for garnish) -
  • 1 small chocolate ladybug or dark berry (for the "bug" theme) -
  • Granulated sugar (for the rim) -
Ingredients for Lovebug Cocktail arranged in a 4-panel flat lay on a white marble kitchen counter. Save it For Later

Step by Step Method

Sugar the rim

  • Dip the edge of a martini glass into water and then into granulated sugar to create a thin; sparkly border.

Dry shake the foam

  • Combine the vodka; lemon juice; simple syrup; and egg white in a shaker without ice and shake vigorously to build a thick foam.

Chill the mixture

  • Add ice to the shaker and shake again for twenty seconds until the exterior feels frosty to the touch.

Strain and layer

  • Strain the chilled mixture into the glass; then slowly pour the raspberry liqueur down the side to create a beautiful red layer at the bottom.

Prepare the garnish

  • Thread two raspberries and a mint sprig onto a cocktail pick; placing the ladybug decoration carefully on top.

Final presentation

  • Rest the garnish across the rim of the frothy foam; ensuring the lemon slice is tucked neatly behind it.

MAX’S REACTION

"Mom; it looks like a little garden in a glass! The ladybug is so cute; can I have the extra raspberries?".

Valentine's Day Lovebug Cocktail in a coupe glass with three gradient layers: vibrant red at the bottom, pale peach-pink in the middle, and white creamy foam on top. The drink is garnished with a cluster of fresh raspberries heavily dusted with powdered sugar, a small decorative ladybug, fresh mint leaves, and a lemon wheel arranged on the foam surface. The cocktail sits on a white marble or light stone surface with fresh raspberries scattered around the base of the glass. The background is beautifully blurred, showing pink and purple flowers with green foliage creating a soft, romantic bokeh effect. Save it For Later

What Pairs Well With Lovebug Cocktail

I usually serve this with light; sweet appetizers like white chocolate truffles or a simple platter of fresh strawberries. For a cozy romantic evening; it also goes beautifully with a few heart-shaped sugar cookies or a rich dark chocolate ganache.

Lovebug Cocktail Variations

Valentine's Day Rum Cocktail

Swap the vodka for a white rum to give the drink a tropical; sweet undertone that pairs perfectly with the tart lemon.

Best Love Potion Cocktail

Add a drop of edible luster dust to the shaker to give your potion a magical; swirling shimmer that Max finds absolutely fascinating.

Valentine's Spritz Cocktail

Pour the strained mixture into a larger glass and top with chilled Prosecco for a bubbly; lighter version of the drink.

I Love You Cocktail

Replace the raspberry liqueur with pomegranate juice for a deeper red color and a slightly tarter flavor profile.

Valentine's Lovebug Cocktail in a two-photo Pinterest collage. Both images show a layered cocktail in a coupe or martini glass with three distinct layers: deep red at the bottom, pale pink in the middle, and white creamy foam on top. The drinks are garnished with fresh raspberries dusted with powdered sugar, a lemon wheel, and fresh mint leaves. The top photo features a decorative ladybug on the raspberries with loose raspberries on the white surface. The bottom photo shows the drink against a purple gradient background with pink flowers and a whole lemon visible. A purple banner with white script text reading 'Valentine's Lovebug Cocktail' separates the two photos. Save it For Later

Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker -
  • Martini glass -
  • Fine-mesh strainer -

Mom Tip: Use a very fine strainer when pouring the drink to ensure no fruit pulp or ice shards break the smooth surface of your foam!.

Storage / Make Ahead / Serving Tips

Storage Tips That Keep It Fresh

  • This cocktail is best enjoyed immediately after shaking to maintain its crisp; chilled texture and frothy head.
  • Store any leftover simple syrup in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Make Ahead Strategy

  • You can muddle and strain the raspberry juice several hours in advance.
  • Keep your glasses in the freezer so the drinks stay ice-cold without needing extra ice that might dilute the flavor.

Reheating Instructions

  • Never heat a martini; if the drink has warmed; give it a quick stir with a fresh ice cube to revive the chill.

Top Tips for Best Lovebug Cocktail

The absolute secret to that professional finish you see in the photo is using fresh-squeezed lemon juice; as the bottled stuff just doesn't have the same bright "zing" needed to make the berries pop. I always tell Max that the harder we shake; the colder and more refreshing the "sweetie" drink becomes. Make sure you strain the mixture twice if you want a perfectly clear; jewel-toned liquid without any pulp. If you find the drink a bit too tart; add an extra teaspoon of simple syrup to the shaker until it matches your sweet tooth.

Lovebug Cocktail Frequently Asked Questions

What are some bug themed cocktails for a party?

The Lovebug is a classic; but you can also try a "Grasshopper" or use gummy worms for a more whimsical approach.

Can I make this without the egg white?

Yes; you can use two tablespoons of aquafaba (chickpea liquid) to get the same frothy foam without the egg.

How do I get the red layer at the bottom?

The "sink" method involves pouring the heavy liqueur slowly over the back of a spoon against the inside of the glass.

Simple Food With Big Family Smiles

Shaking up these vibrant pink drinks is the highlight of my weekend; especially when the house is full of laughter and heart-shaped candies. If you enjoyed this berry-forward treat; you should try our decadent Italian Love Cake or our festive Heart Shaped Brownies. For a smaller bite-sized treat; nothing beats the gooey center of our Berry Chocolate Lava Bites.

Share your Lovebug Cocktail! Tag us @HannahCooking with #LovebugCocktail; we’re dying to see your version and hear about your homemade kitchen stories!

⭐️ Rate this Lovebug Cocktail recipe and let us know what twists or ingredients you used!

Looking for other recipes like Lovebug Cocktail? Try these:

Valentine's Day Lovebug Cocktail in a crystal-cut coupe glass with three beautiful gradient layers: deep raspberry red at the bottom, pale pink in the middle, and white creamy foam on top with a sugar-frosted rim. The cocktail is garnished with three fresh raspberries dusted with powdered sugar, fresh mint leaves, a decorative ladybug, and a lemon wheel, all arranged on a cocktail pick. The drink sits on a white marble surface with additional sugared raspberries and mint scattered around the base. A whole lemon is positioned behind the glass, with soft-focus pink flowers on both sides. The background features a dreamy purple-to-pink gradient bokeh with darker purple tones at the edges. Save it For Later

Lovebug Cocktail

A stunning layered Valentine's cocktail featuring tart raspberry, fresh lemon, and a silky foam topper. Garnished with fresh mint and a whimsical 'lovebug' for a flirty, festive touch.
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Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 7 minutes
Servings: 1 person
Calories: 215kcal
Cost: $6

Equipment

  • 1 Cocktail shaker (Essential for foaming)
  • 1 Fine-mesh strainer (For a smooth texture)
  • 1 Martini glass (Chilled)

Ingredients

  • 2 oz Raspberry vodka - Can substitute light rum
  • 1 oz Fresh lemon juice - Strained
  • ½ oz Simple syrup - Adjust for sweetness
  • ½ oz Raspberry liqueur - For the bottom layer
  • 1 large Egg white - Or 2 tablespoon aquafaba
  • 1 slice Lemon - For garnish
  • 1 sprig Fresh mint - For garden look

Instructions 

  • Rim a martini glass with sugar by dipping it in water and then granulated sugar.
  • Combine vodka, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white in a shaker without ice.
  • Shake vigorously for thirty seconds to create a thick, stable white foam layer.
  • Add a handful of ice to the shaker and shake again for twenty seconds to chill.
  • Double-strain the mixture into the prepared glass using a fine-mesh sieve for clarity.
  • Slowly pour raspberry liqueur down the inside of the glass to sink to the bottom.
  • Garnish with a lemon slice, mint, raspberries, and a chocolate ladybug for the theme.

Notes

Use the 'dry shake' method (shaking without ice first) to ensure a thick, stable foam. Double-straining is key for a crystal-clear middle layer.

Nutrition

Serving: 210g | Calories: 215kcal (11%) | Carbohydrates: 16g (5%) | Protein: 3g (6%) | Fat: 0.5g (1%) | Sodium: 35mg (2%) | Potassium: 70mg (2%) | Fiber: 1g (4%) | Sugar: 14g (16%) | Vitamin C: 15mg (18%) | Calcium: 10mg (1%) | Iron: 0.2mg (1%)

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