Paul Kushner
Exotic, vibrant, and beautifully layered, the Purple Paradise Punch is a mesmerizing cocktail that blends tropical flavors with floral elegance. The tart sweetness of pink lemonade forms the perfect base, while blue curaçao adds a citrusy contrast. Empress Gin and crème de violette bring a botanical and floral depth, creating a breathtaking ombré effect as the layers settle. Garnished with a fresh pineapple slice and a cherry, this eye-catching cocktail is perfect for tropical parties, summer nights, or anytime you want a drink as striking as it is delicious!
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Tasting Notes
The Purple Paradise Punch delivers a balanced blend of sweet and floral flavors. The citrusy pink lemonade pairs beautifully with the tropical blue curaçao, while the Empress gin and crème de violette add a delicate, floral depth. The layering technique ensures a visually stunning drink that tastes as good as it looks.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a highball or hurricane glass to showcase the beautiful layered effect. A jigger ensures precise measurements, and a bar spoon helps to carefully layer each ingredient. A mixing dish is useful for combining the Empress Gin and crème de violette before pouring.
Ingredients
- 2 oz pink lemonade
- ¾ oz blue curaçao
- 2 oz Empress Gin
- ½ oz crème de violette
- Pineapple slice for garnish
- Cherry for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Pour the pink lemonade into the glass as the base layer.
- Slowly pour the blue curaçao over the back of a spoon, directing it down the side of the glass to create a distinct blue layer.
- In a separate dish, combine the Empress gin and crème de violette.
- Carefully pour the gin mixture over the back of a spoon, letting it gently float on top of the blue curaçao for the final layer.
- Garnish with a pineapple slice and a cherry for a tropical touch.
- Serve and enjoy your Purple Paradise Punch!
Pro Tips
- Use crushed ice to help slow the mixing of layers and enhance the visual effect.
- Pour each layer slowly over the back of a spoon to keep them separate.
- For a sweeter drink, add a splash of pineapple juice.
- Chill the ingredients beforehand for a crisper taste.
- To intensify the color contrast, use freshly squeezed lemonade instead of pink lemonade.
When to Serve
The Purple Paradise Punch is perfect for tropical parties, summer gatherings, bachelorette events, or any time you want a dazzling, Instagram-worthy cocktail. The vibrant layers and floral notes make it an elegant yet fun drink for special occasions.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
For the best experience, use high-quality spirits such as:
- Empress 1908 Gin (for the signature indigo hue)
- Giffard or Rothman & Winter Crème de Violette (for floral complexity)
- Bols or DeKuyper Blue Curaçao (for bright citrus notes)
Similar Cocktails
If you enjoy Purple Paradise Punch, here are five similar cocktails to try:
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 oz pink lemonade
- ¾ oz blue curaçao
- 2 oz Empress Gin
- ½ oz crème de violette
- Pineapple slice for garnish
- Cherry for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Pour the pink lemonade into the glass as the base layer.
- Slowly pour the blue curaçao over the back of a spoon, directing it down the side of the glass to create a distinct blue layer.
- In a separate dish, combine the Empress gin and crème de violette.
- Carefully pour the gin mixture over the back of a spoon, letting it gently float on top of the blue curaçao for the final layer.
- Garnish with a pineapple slice and a cherry for a tropical touch.
- Serve and enjoy your Purple Paradise Punch!
Notes
- For more distinct layers, ensure that each pour is slow and steady.
- Chilling the liquids beforehand will help maintain the layers as you build the cocktail.
