Sunset Lemonade: A Butterfly Pea Gin Cocktail with Cajun Grenadine
Aug 29, 2025
Cheers to summer with the Sunset Lemonade, a visually stunning and delicious butterfly pea gin cocktail. This unique creation, crafted in collaboration with @the.sauceress, is a perfect blend of sweet and tart, featuring a signature touch from our spiced El Guapo™ Cajun Grenadine. It's a refreshing lemonade with an elegant twist, making it the ultimate cajun grenadine lemonade for any warm-weather gathering.
The Art of the Butterfly Pea Gin Cocktail
The true magic of the Sunset Lemonade lies in the butterfly pea infused gin. This special botanical, derived from the butterfly pea flower, contains a natural pigment that reacts to changes in pH. When mixed with an acidic ingredient like lemon juice, the gin undergoes a remarkable color transformation from a vibrant blue to a beautiful violet or pink. This stunning visual effect is what makes a butterfly pea gin cocktail so captivating and memorable.
Sunset Lemonade: The Ultimate Cajun Grenadine Lemonade Recipe
This cocktail is a masterclass in balance, with each ingredient playing a crucial role in its layered flavor and iconic "sunset" appearance.
Ingredients for Sunset Lemonade
- 0.75 oz El Guapo™ Cajun Grenadine
- 1.5 oz Butterfly Pea infused Gin
- 0.5 oz Campari
- 3 oz Lemonade
- 2 oz soda water
- Squeeze of fresh lemon
- Lemon wedges, baby strawberries, and fresh flowers, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to build your beautiful cajun grenadine lemonade directly in the glass:
- Build the Base: In a Collins glass, pour the El Guapo™ Cajun Grenadine and Campari. Stir them together until they are well combined.
- Add Ice and Liquid: Fill the glass completely with crushed ice. Gently pour in the soda water, followed by the lemonade, and a squeeze of fresh lemon.
- Create the Sunset Effect: Slowly and carefully float the butterfly pea infused gin on top of the drink. This will create a striking layer of blue over the red base.
- Garnish: Adorn your drink with a lemon wedge, fresh flowers, and baby strawberries. Serve immediately and instruct your guests to stir before sipping to enjoy the color change and fully combine the flavors.
Why this Cajun Grenadine Lemonade Works
The combination of sweet El Guapo™ Cajun Grenadine and bitter Campari creates a perfect flavor foundation. When the gin and lemonade are added, the drink becomes incredibly refreshing and zesty. The finishing squeeze of lemon juice not only brightens the cocktail but also triggers the color-changing reaction, transforming the final product into a mesmerizing, swirling sunset.
Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Explore our complete collection of recipes and discover your next favorite drink. Have a question? Contact us for assistance, or visit El Guapo's homepage to explore everything we offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Cajun Grenadine taste like?
El Guapo™ Cajun Grenadine is a spiced grenadine that features a classic sweet-tart pomegranate base with a unique kick of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. It adds a sophisticated, aromatic layer to any cocktail.
Can I make a butterfly pea gin cocktail without Campari?
Yes, you can. Campari adds a bitter, herbal complexity that balances the sweetness of the other ingredients. If you prefer a less bitter drink, you can omit the Campari, but be aware that the overall flavor profile will be sweeter.
How do I infuse gin with butterfly pea flowers?
To infuse gin, simply add a small handful of dried butterfly pea flowers to a bottle of gin. Let it infuse for a few hours, or until the desired blue color is achieved. Strain the flowers before use.
What's the best way to serve Sunset Lemonade?
It's best to serve the Sunset Lemonade immediately after building it to preserve the layered appearance. Stir before sipping to mix the beautiful colors and flavors together.
