Valentine’s Day Mocktail Recipe with Hawthorn

I’ve always had a soft spot for recipes that feel a little extra without actually being complicated. Just like any good relationship, there’s something comforting about knowing you can create something special without overthinking every step or ingredient. This very sentiment is what inspired Every Rose Has Its Hawthorn—a Valentine’s Day mocktail crafted to encapsulate love in all its layered, often messy, yet simplistic nature at heart.

Vermillion-hued and infused with heart-opening organics, this mocktail balances playfully tart notes of black cherry with hawthorn berries for a resilient and strong heart, rose petals to uplift, and warming cinnamon to add a touch of spice to your love life. Finished with a splash of orange juice and ginger beer, this mocktail invites us to slow down, savor sweetness, and spark connection in meaningful ways this Valentine’s Day and beyond.

Every Rose Has Its Hawthorn Mocktail

Makes about 16 ounces syrup.

Step One: Hawthorn Rose Simple Syrup

Ingredients

• 2 cups pure organic black cherry juice
• 1 1/2 cups organic granulated white sugar
• 2 Tbsp. organic hawthorn berries
• 1 Tbsp. organic red or pink rose petals
• 1 organic sweet cinnamon stick
• Outer peel of 1 orange *See Pro-Tips

Directions

1. Combine all ingredients in a medium-sized saucepan.
2. Bring to a low simmer over medium-low heat, stirring frequently.
3. Allow to simmer for 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
4. Once cooled, use a fine mesh strainer to strain solid bits from the syrup.
5. Transfer to airtight container. Label and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
   
   

Pro Tips

• A paring knife or potato peeler work great for peeling the very outer peel of citrus fruits while leaving the “pith” (fleshy white part of the peel).
  
  

Step Two: Mocktail Assembly

Makes one drink.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces prepared syrup (see above)
• 1 ounce pure organic black cherry juice
• 1 ounce organic fresh-squeezed orange juice
• Ice
• Heavy splash of ginger beer or ale (I prefer ginger beer)

Directions

1. To a cocktail shaker, combine syrup, black cherry juice, orange juice, and ice.
2. Pour into glass of choice and top off with a touch of ginger ale or beer. Cheers!
   
   
   

Looking for more herbal inspiration to blossom your heart? 

Try Our Queen of Hearts Mocktail! 

You may also be interested in:

• Valentine’s Day Breakfast: Vegan, Gluten-Free, and Keto-Friendly Recipes
• Essential Oil Blends for Lovers
• Zero-Waste Gifts for Your Sweetheart