This Ginger Pear Bourbon Cocktail is both refreshing and cozy! It combines sweet pear juice, spicy ginger, and smooth bourbon for an easy drink that’s perfect for any occasion.
Picture this: you with friends, laughing, and enjoying a tasty drink that warms you up. I love adding a slice of pear for that extra flair—makes it feel fancy without the fuss! 🍐🥃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bourbon: Bourbon is key for that smooth, rich flavor. If you don’t have bourbon on hand, you can use rye whiskey for a spicier note or even a smooth blended whiskey. My go-to is a good quality Kentucky bourbon that really enhances the drink.
Pear Juice: Freshly pressed pear juice adds the best taste, but store-bought is fine too. You could substitute it with apple juice or even white grape juice if pears aren’t available.
Ginger Syrup: Making homemade ginger syrup is easy and flavorful! If you’re short on time, bottled ginger syrup can work, but it may be sweeter. Also, consider using fresh ginger muddled with sugar and hot water for a quick fix.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the drink. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice will do, but fresh always tastes best. I prefer using Meyer lemons for a sweeter twist.
How Do I Make the Perfect Ginger Syrup?
Creating ginger syrup at home is simple and worth it for this cocktail. Here’s how to nail it:
- Combine equal parts water and sugar (1 cup each) in a saucepan.
- Add sliced fresh ginger (about 2 inches), which packs in flavor.
- Bring to a boil, then lower the heat, and let it simmer for 10 minutes. This extracts the ginger’s spiciness.
- Once cooled, strain out the ginger and store the syrup in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Don’t skip this step—it’s key to a fantastic cocktail!
Using these tips, you can mix up a delightful Ginger Pear Bourbon Cocktail that impresses just about anyone. Cheers!
How to Make a Ginger Pear Bourbon Cocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz pear juice (freshly pressed or store-bought)
- 0.75 oz ginger syrup (see instructions below)
- 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
- Ice cubes
- Pear slice and fresh ginger slice for garnish
- Fresh thyme sprig (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cocktail is quick to whip up! Expect about 10 minutes for preparation, including making the ginger syrup. If you want to make the syrup ahead of time, it can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the fridge!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ginger Syrup:
Start by making the ginger syrup. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar, then add a 2-inch piece of fresh ginger that has been peeled and sliced. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This helps for the ginger flavor to be infused into the syrup. After simmering, remove from heat and let it cool. Strain out the ginger pieces and store the syrup in the fridge.
2. Mix the Cocktail:
Grab a cocktail shaker and fill it with ice cubes. Then, pour in 2 oz of bourbon, 1 oz of pear juice, 0.75 oz of your prepared ginger syrup, and 0.5 oz of fresh lemon juice. It’s such a simple mix! Secure the lid on your shaker tightly and shake it vigorously for about 15 seconds to chill everything nicely.
3. Serve and Garnish:
Now it’s time to enjoy your cocktail! Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice. For the finishing touch, garnish your drink with a thin slice of pear and a slice of fresh ginger on a cocktail pick. If you want an extra touch of aroma, you can also add a fresh thyme sprig either in the glass or resting next to it on the bar—such a cute and elegant detail!
And there you have it! A delicious, slightly spicy, and fruity Ginger Pear Bourbon Cocktail. Perfect for any gathering or just a cozy night in. Cheers!
Can I Use Other Types of Whiskey?
Yes, you can! While bourbon is traditional for this recipe, feel free to use rye whiskey for a spicier flavor or blended whiskey for something smoother. Just keep in mind that the overall taste will change slightly with different whiskeys.
How Do I Store Leftover Ginger Syrup?
Store any leftover ginger syrup in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to two weeks. It’s great to have on hand for making more cocktails or even adding to your tea!
Can I Make This Cocktail Non-Alcoholic?
Absolutely! To make a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the bourbon with a mix of sparkling water and a dash of apple cider for a refreshing and flavorful cocktail without the alcohol!
What Can I Substitute for Pear Juice?
If you don’t have pear juice available, you can substitute it with apple juice or white grape juice. Just keep in mind that using a different juice will alter the flavor profile slightly!
