15 Date Night Drinks & Cocktails To Impress Her

Romantic gatherings and date nights involve setting the perfect atmosphere, and nothing complements a heartfelt connection quite like a well-crafted drink. The right cocktail can elevate the experience of dating and introduce novel tastes and …

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Written by: Dora

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Romantic gatherings and date nights involve setting the perfect atmosphere, and nothing complements a heartfelt connection quite like a well-crafted drink. The right cocktail can elevate the experience of dating and introduce novel tastes and flavors for you to explore together.

We have selected the best date night drinks for you to try and made sure these cocktails are easy enough for anyone to create. So, before you rush to buy gin online or scout another alcoholic drink, make sure to check out our selection of evening cocktails that are sure to impress your romantic date.

Lemon Elderflower Cocktail

The Lemon Elderflower Cocktail is a refreshing and delightful drink made with a combination of fresh lemon juice, elderflower liqueur, and your choice of spirit, typically gin or vodka. It’s known for its vibrant citrusy notes and the subtle, floral sweetness from the elderflower.

The Lemon Elderflower Cocktail combines a sophisticated taste with visual appeal, making it an excellent choice for a memorable and romantic gathering.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz gin
  • 1 oz elderflower liqueur (such as St-Germain)
  • 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon twist, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Chill your glass by placing it in the freezer or filling it with ice water while you prepare the cocktail.
  2. In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, elderflower liqueur, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and simple syrup.
  3. Fill the shaker with ice cubes and shake the mixture vigorously for about 10-15 seconds. This chills the ingredients and adds a touch of dilution.
  4. Discard the ice from the chilled glass and strain the cocktail into it.
  5. Garnish the cocktail with a twist of lemon. You can create a twist by using a vegetable peeler or a knife to cut a thin strip of lemon peel, being careful to avoid the bitter white pith. Serve and enjoy!

Cupid’s Kiss Champagne Cocktail

Cupid’s Kiss Champagne Cocktail is a romantic and visually stunning drink that combines the effervescence of champagne with the sweetness of fruity liqueurs.

Cupid’s Kiss Champagne Cocktail offers a delightful combination of flavors and a visually enchanting presentation, making it an excellent choice for a romantic and celebratory date night.

Ingredients:

  • 1 oz raspberry liqueur (Chambord is a popular choice)
  • 1/2 oz orange liqueur (Triple Sec or Cointreau)
  • 1 sugar cube
  • Angostura bitters
  • Chilled champagne or sparkling wine
  • Fresh raspberries for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Place a sugar cube in the bottom of a champagne flute.
  2. Sprinkle a few dashes of Angostura bitters onto the sugar cube. This adds a subtle and aromatic layer to the cocktail.
  3. Pour the raspberry liqueur and orange liqueur over the sugar cube.
  4. Slowly pour chilled champagne or sparkling wine into the glass. Pour it in a way that allows the sugar cube to dissolve gradually.
  5. Drop a few fresh raspberries into the glass for a burst of flavor and a touch of romance.

Gin Fizz

The Gin Fizz is a classic cocktail that combines gin, citrus (usually lemon juice), simple syrup, and soda water. It’s known for its frothy texture created by shaking the ingredients with ice. The Gin Fizz’s balance of flavors, effervescence, and frothy texture make it a versatile and delightful option for a romantic date night.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz gin
  • 3/4 oz simple syrup
  • 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 egg white
  • Soda water (club soda)
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon twist, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, simple syrup, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and egg white. Dry shake (shake without ice) vigorously for about 10-15 seconds. This helps create a frothy texture from the egg white.
  2. Add ice to the shaker and shake the mixture again for another 10-15 seconds. This chills the ingredients and continues to froth the egg white.
  3. Strain the mixture into a chilled highball or Collins glass filled with ice.
  4. Top the glass with soda water to your liking. This adds effervescence and lightens the drink.
  5. Garnish with a twist of lemon. Express the oils from the lemon twist by giving it a twist over the drink and dropping it into the glass.

Cosmopolitan

The Cosmopolitan is a classic cocktail made with vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and freshly squeezed lime juice. It’s known for its vibrant pink color and balanced, slightly tart flavor. The Cosmopolitan’s aesthetics, balanced flavor, and cultural appeal make it a timeless and delightful choice for a romantic evening.

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 oz vodka
  • 1 oz triple sec
  • 3/4 oz cranberry juice
  • 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
  • Ice cubes
  • Orange twist or lime wheel, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Place your martini glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water to chill while you prepare the cocktail.
  2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
  3. Pour in the vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and freshly squeezed lime juice into the shaker.
  4. Shake the mixture vigorously for about 10-15 seconds. This chills the ingredients and creates a frothy texture.
  5. Discard the ice from the chilled martini glass and strain the cocktail into it.
  6. Garnish your Cosmopolitan with an orange twist or a lime wheel. You can express the citrus oils by giving the twist a little twist over the drink.

Fifty Shades of Shirley Cocktail

The Fifty Shades of Shirley Cocktail is a playful and creative twist on the classic Shirley Temple mocktail. It typically involves adding various fruit juices, soda, and a variety of colorful garnishes to create a visually stunning and delicious drink.

The Fifty Shades of Shirley Cocktail is a fun, visually striking, and customizable drink that brings a playful vibe to date nights, making it an excellent choice for couples looking to enjoy a unique and enjoyable beverage experience.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz vanilla vodka
  • 1 oz black cherry juice
  • 1/2 oz grenadine
  • Ginger ale
  • Ice cubes
  • Maraschino cherry for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Fill a highball or Collins glass with ice cubes.
  2. Pour the vanilla vodka over the ice in the glass.
  3. Add the black cherry juice to the glass.
  4. Drizzle the grenadine over the top. It will sink to the bottom and gradually rise, creating a layered effect.
  5. Top the glass with ginger ale. You can adjust the amount to your taste, adding more for a lighter drink or less for a stronger one.
  6. Gently stir the ingredients to combine flavors without disrupting the layered effect too much.
  7. Garnish your Fifty Shades of Shirley cocktail with a maraschino cherry. You can drop it into the drink or skewer it on a cocktail pick.

Love Potion Cocktail

The Love Potion Cocktail is a romantic and visually enchanting drink often crafted with a blend of colorful fruit juices, spirits, and sometimes sparkling wine. The Love Potion Cocktail combines aesthetics, flavors, and a touch of whimsy, making it an ideal choice for couples looking to share a magical and romantic experience during their date night.

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 oz raspberry vodka
  • 1/2 oz peach schnapps
  • 1 oz cranberry juice
  • 1 oz pineapple juice
  • Ice cubes
  • Fresh raspberries or a slice of peach for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
  2. Pour the raspberry vodka into the shaker.
  3. Add the peach schnapps to the shaker.
  4. Pour in the cranberry juice.
  5. Add the pineapple juice to the mix.
  6. Shake the ingredients vigorously for about 10-15 seconds. This chills the drink and blends the flavors.
  7. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini or cocktail glass.
  8. Garnish your Love Potion cocktail with fresh raspberries or a slice of peach. This adds a romantic touch to the presentation.

Creamy Baileys Drink

The Creamy Baileys Drink is a luscious and indulgent cocktail featuring Baileys Irish Cream, a popular cream liqueur. It’s a sumptuous and versatile choice for date nights, offering a deliciously indulgent experience with its rich flavors and warm, inviting character.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz Baileys Irish Cream
  • 1 oz Irish whiskey
  • 1 oz heavy cream
  • Ice cubes
  • Cocoa powder or grated chocolate for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes
  2. Pour the Baileys Irish Cream into the shaker.
  3. Add the Irish whiskey to the mix.
  4. Pour in the heavy cream.
  5. Shake the ingredients vigorously for about 10 seconds. This helps blend the creamy elements with the spirits.
  6. Strain the creamy mixture into a rocks glass or a tumbler filled with ice.
  7. If desired, you can sprinkle a bit of cocoa powder or add grated chocolate on top for a decorative touch.

Chocolate Martini

The Chocolate Martini is a decadent and dessert-inspired cocktail known for its rich chocolatey flavor. It combines a luxurious flavor profile with a touch of elegance, making it a delightful and memorable choice for an evening for two.

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 oz vodka
  • 1 oz chocolate liqueur
  • 1/2 oz crème de cacao
  • 1 oz cream or half-and-half
  • Chocolate syrup
  • Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Place your martini glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water to chill while you prepare the ingredients.
  2. Dip the rim of the chilled glass into chocolate syrup to coat it. This adds a delightful chocolate touch to each sip.
  3. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
  4. Pour the vodka into the shaker.
  5. Add the chocolate liqueur to the mix.
  6. Pour in the crème de cacao.
  7. Add the cream or half-and-half to the shaker.
  8. Shake the ingredients vigorously for about 10-15 seconds. This chills the drink and creates a creamy texture.
  9. Discard the ice from the martini glass and strain the chocolate mixture into the prepared glass.
  10. Garnish your Chocolate Martini with chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an extra chocolatey touch

Rum Manhattan

The Rum Manhattan is a delightful twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail, featuring the richness of rum. It combines classic charm with a distinctive twist, offering a rich and comforting cocktail experience that enhances the warmth and enjoyment of a romantic date night.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz dark rum
  • 1 oz sweet vermouth
  • 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
  • Maraschino cherry for garnish
  • Orange twist for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
  2. Pour the dark rum into the mixing glass.
  3. Add the sweet vermouth to the mix.
  4. Add 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters to the mix.
  5. Stir the ingredients well with a bar spoon for about 20-30 seconds. This helps chill the drink without diluting it too much.
  6. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini or rocks glass.
  7. Garnish your Rum Manhattan with a maraschino cherry and a twist of orange. Express the orange twist over the drink by giving it a gentle twist to release its oils.

Pink Grapefruit Spritz

The Pink Grapefruit Spritz is a refreshing and vibrant cocktail that brings a burst of citrusy flavors. It combines citrusy freshness with effervescence, creating a visually appealing and light-hearted drink that enhances the overall experience of a date.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz pink grapefruit juice
  • 3 oz sparkling water
  • 1 1/2 oz vodka
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
  • Ice cubes
  • Pink grapefruit slices or wedges for garnish
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Fill a wine glass or a large goblet with ice cubes.
  2. Pour the vodka over the ice.
  3. Add the pink grapefruit juice to the glass.
  4. Pour in the simple syrup. Adjust the amount based on your desired level of sweetness.
  5. Pour the sparkling water over the mixture. This adds effervescence to your spritz.
  6. Give the ingredients a gentle stir to combine them.
  7. Garnish your Pink Grapefruit Spritz with slices or wedges of pink grapefruit and a few fresh mint leaves.

Spiced Espresso Martini

The Spiced Espresso Martini is a captivating and energizing twist on the classic Espresso Martini. It brings together bold flavors, a touch of spice, and the sophistication of an espresso-based cocktail, making it a delightful and engaging choice for a memorable romantic evening.

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 oz vodka
  • 1 oz coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
  • 1 oz freshly brewed espresso, cooled
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
  • Pinch of ground cinnamon
  • Ice cubes
  • Coffee beans for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Brew a shot of espresso and allow it to cool.
  2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
  3. Pour the vodka into the shaker.
  4. Add the coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa) to the mix.
  5. Pour in the freshly brewed and cooled espresso.
  6. Add the simple syrup to the shaker. Adjust the sweetness based on your preference.
  7. Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon into the shaker. This adds a warm and spiced flavor.
  8. Shake the ingredients vigorously for about 10-15 seconds. This helps chill the drink and create a frothy texture.
  9. Strain the spiced espresso mixture into a chilled martini glass.
  10. Garnish your Spiced Espresso Martini with a few coffee beans on top.

White Russian

The White Russian is a creamy and indulgent cocktail with a simple yet sophisticated profile. It’s a balanced, and dessert-like indulgence that can elevate the sweetness of a romantic evening, making it an appealing choice for couples on a date night.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz vodka
  • 1 oz coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
  • 1 oz heavy cream or milk
  • Ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. Fill an old-fashioned glass with ice cubes.
  2. Pour the vodka over the ice.
  3. Add the coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa) to the glass.
  4. Gently pour the heavy cream or milk over the back of a spoon onto the surface of the drink. This creates a layered effect.
  5. Optionally, you can give the ingredients a gentle stir or swirl to combine them slightly.

Classic Martini

The Classic Martini is known for its simplicity and elegance. the Classic Martini’s iconic status, simplicity, personalization options, and sipping ritual make it a sophisticated and engaging choice for a special and memorable date night.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz gin
  • 1/2 oz dry vermouth
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon twist or olive for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Place your martini glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water to chill while you prepare the cocktail.
  2. Fill a mixing glass or shaker with ice cubes.
  3. Pour the gin over the ice in the mixing glass.
  4. Add the dry vermouth to the gin in the mixing glass. Adjust the amount based on your preference for a drier or wetter martini.
  5. Stir the ingredients gently with a bar spoon for about 30 seconds. If you prefer a slightly different texture, you can shake the mixture, but stirring is traditional for a classic martini.
  6. Discard the ice from the chilled martini glass. Using a strainer, pour the stirred mixture into the glass.
  7. Garnish your Classic Martini with a twist of lemon peel or an olive. To create a lemon twist, express the oils from the peel over the drink by giving it a twist over the glass, then drop it in.

French 75

The French 75 is a sparkling date night drink that brings together elegance, refreshing citrus notes, a balanced flavor profile, and visual appeal, making it an ideal choice to elevate the ambiance of a love night.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz gin
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
  • Champagne or sparkling wine
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon twist for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Fill a shaker with ice cubes.
  2. Pour the gin into the shaker.
  3. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice to the gin.
  4. Pour in the simple syrup. Adjust the sweetness based on your preference.
  5. Shake the ingredients vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to chill the mixture.
  6. Strain the mixture into a chilled champagne flute.
  7. Top up the glass with chilled champagne or sparkling wine. Pour slowly to control the fizz.
  8. Garnish your French 75 with a twist of lemon peel. Express the oils by giving it a twist over the drink, then drop it in.

Strawberry Basil Sparkler

The Strawberry Basil Sparkler offers a refreshing fusion, a sweet and herbal balance, visual appeal, effervescence, and the potential for a seasonal touch, making it an ideal companion for a delightful and memorable romantic evening.

Ingredients:

  • 4-5 fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 5-6 fresh basil leaves
  • 1 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 2 oz vodka
  • Sparkling water
  • Ice cubes
  • Basil leaves and strawberry slices for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the sliced strawberries and basil leaves to release their flavors.
  2. Pour in the simple syrup into the shaker.
  3. Add the fresh lemon juice and vodka to the shaker.
  4. Shake the mixture well to combine the flavors and chill the ingredients.
  5. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice cubes.
  6. Top up the glass with sparkling water to your desired level of effervescence.
  7. Garnish your Strawberry Basil Sparkler with a few basil leaves and strawberry slices for a touch of elegance.

Tools and equipment

Having a well-equipped home bar is essential for crafting a variety of cocktails. Here’s a list of basic tools and equipment you’ll need to make the date night drinks mentioned:

  • Shaker – A cocktail shaker is crucial for mixing ingredients, especially those that require shaking with ice.
  • Muddler – For muddling fruits, herbs, or spices to extract flavors. Essential for cocktails like the Strawberry Basil Sparkler.
  • Jigger – A jigger helps measure precise amounts of liquids, ensuring your cocktails are well-balanced.
  • Strainer – A strainer is used to separate ice and other solids from the liquid when pouring from the shaker into a glass.
  • Citrus Juicer – To extract fresh juice from lemons or other citrus fruits. Essential for cocktails like the Gin Fizz.
  • Ice Cube Trays – Various shapes and sizes for different cocktails. Essential for chilling and diluting drinks.
  • Garnish Picks – Decorative picks for presenting garnishes like olives, cherries, or citrus twists.
  • Cutting Board and Knife – For preparing garnishes and cutting fruit. Essential for drinks like the Lemon Elderflower Cocktail.
  • Wine Opener – Essential if you’re using wine or champagne in your cocktails.
  • Cocktail Glasses – Different glasses for different types of cocktails, such as martini glasses, highball glasses, and champagne flutes.

Creating a romantic atmosphere

Setting up the mood and creating a romantic atmosphere in the room is essential for a date night. Here are some tips on how to make the perfect setting for a cozy cocktail drinking at home:

  • Dim Lighting – Use soft, dim lighting through candles, fairy lights, or table lamps. Avoid harsh overhead lights.
  • Candles – Place scented or unscented candles strategically around the room. The flickering light creates a warm and intimate atmosphere.
  • Fresh Flowers – Arrange a bouquet of fresh flowers in a vase. Roses are classic, but any flowers with a pleasant scent work well.
  • Music Playlist – Create a playlist of romantic songs or your date’s favorites. Soft background music can enhance the mood.
  • Comfortable Seating – Arrange comfortable seating with plush cushions or throws. A cozy spot encourages closeness and conversation while sipping on a cocktail.
  • Sweet Treats – Place a box of chocolates or other sweet treats on a side table for a delightful surprise.
  • Open Windows – If weather permits, open the windows for a gentle breeze and to let in the natural sounds of the night.

In conclusion, crafting a perfect date night involves more than just great date night drinks. It’s about the shared experience, the laughter, and the connection you build.

Whether you opt for the classic elegance of a Martini or the playful sweetness of a Love Potion Cocktail, the key is to savor these moments together. Experiment, have fun, and let these drinks be the backdrop to a memorable and romantic evening that lingers in your hearts.

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