Paul Kushner
The Witch Heart Cocktail is a bewitching blend of blackberry liqueur, apple juice, and lemon juice, with a touch of grenadine for a blood-red hue. Perfect for Halloween or any mystical gathering, this cocktail is made even more magical with the optional addition of powdered dry ice, creating a spooky, smoky effect that will leave your guests spellbound.
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Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Blackberry luster liqueur
- 0.75 oz apple juice chilled
- 0.5 oz lemon juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 0.25 oz grenadine
- 1/2 tsp powdered dry ice optional
- Blackberry and strawberry for garnish, optional
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the blackberry liqueur, chilled apple juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Add a generous amount of ice to the shaker and shake well for a few seconds until the drink is thoroughly chilled.
- Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass.
- Slowly pour the grenadine syrup over the drink, allowing it to sink and create a layered effect.
- For an added mystical touch, sprinkle about ½ tsp of powdered dry ice on top of the drink and serve with a stirrer. (Optional Step)
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Witch’s Heart Cocktail!
Blackberry Luster Liqueur:
- Pour 1 cup of vodka into a glass jar with a tight lid.
- Add 6 blackberries to the vodka. Seal the jar and refrigerate for 3 days to 1 week.
- Set your sous vide to 130°F (54°C). Place the vodka and blackberries in a sealed freezer bag, then submerge in the sous vide for 2 hours. Let cool before moving on.
- Strain the vodka through a cheesecloth into a clean jar, discarding the blackberries. The liquid should be clear and purple.
- Mix in ¼ to ⅓ cup of simple syrup to taste. Stir in ⅛ teaspoon of food-grade purple luster dust for a shimmery effect. Add more if needed, up to ¼ teaspoon.
- For a deeper purple color, add 1-2 drops of purple food coloring.
Notes
- Handle dry ice with care, using tongs or gloves, and ensure it has fully dissipated before drinking.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less simple syrup to suit your taste.
- For a more vibrant presentation, consider garnishing with a blackberry or a slice of apple.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for a brighter, more refreshing flavor.
Tasting Notes
The Witch’s Heart Cocktail is a deliciously dark and mysterious drink that perfectly balances sweet, tart, and fruity flavors. The blackberry liqueur provides a rich, berry base, while the apple juice adds a crisp, refreshing note. The lemon juice brightens the drink with a zesty tang, and the grenadine syrup adds a touch of sweetness and a striking color contrast. The optional dry ice effect adds a magical, smoky element, making this cocktail not only delicious but also visually captivating—ideal for a Halloween celebration or any enchanting evening.
