This Ginger Pear Bourbon Cocktail is a wonderfully sweet and spicy drink! With warming bourbon, fresh pears, and a hint of ginger, it’s perfect for cozy nights or festive parties.
Whenever I make this drink, I feel like a mixologist! Just shake the ingredients together and pour—easy and fun. Plus, oh boy, it looks chic too! 🍐🥃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bourbon: This is the heart of your cocktail. Any good-quality bourbon works, but I recommend something smooth like Maker’s Mark or Buffalo Trace. If you want a twist, try using rye whiskey for a spicier note!
Pear Juice: Freshly pressed pear juice gives the best flavor, but if that’s unavailable, bottled juice is fine. You can also substitute with apple juice for a slightly different sweetness.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Always use fresh lemon juice—it’s way better than bottled! It brightens up the flavor. If you’re out of lemons, lime juice can work in a pinch.
Ginger Syrup: You can buy ginger syrup or make your own by simmering sugar, water, and fresh ginger. If you don’t have ginger syrup, try using ginger ale for a fizzy alternative, though it will be a bit sweeter.
How Do I Make the Ginger Syrup?
Making ginger syrup is simple and can really elevate your cocktail. Here’s a quick step-by-step:
- Combine equal parts sugar and water in a small saucepan (1 cup each is a good starting point).
- Add slices of fresh ginger—about 1-2 inches of peeled ginger works well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
- Remove from heat, let cool, and strain out the ginger pieces. Store in the fridge for up to a month!
This syrup is not just for cocktails; it can add a kick to tea or other drinks too!
Ginger Pear Bourbon Cocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz pear juice (freshly pressed if possible)
- 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz ginger syrup (see note for recipe)
- Ice cubes
- Pear slice for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cocktail recipe takes about 5-10 minutes to prepare, including making the ginger syrup if you choose to make it from scratch. If you already have the syrup ready, the assembly is very quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ginger Syrup:
To make your ginger syrup, combine equal parts sugar and water in a small saucepan. For example, 1 cup of each works well. Add a few slices of fresh ginger and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes. Once done, strain out the ginger pieces and let the syrup cool. Store any unused syrup in the fridge for up to a month.
2. Mix the Cocktail:
Grab a cocktail shaker and fill it halfway with ice cubes. Then, pour in the bourbon, pear juice, fresh lemon juice, and ginger syrup. Secure the lid and shake it vigorously for about 15 seconds until everything is well chilled.
3. Serve It Up:
Take a rocks glass and fill it with fresh ice, then strain the cocktail into the glass. Make sure it looks smooth and delicious!
4. Garnish and Enjoy:
For a lovely finishing touch, garnish with a fresh pear slice on a cocktail pick or skewer. Serve your Ginger Pear Bourbon Cocktail immediately and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors. It’s perfect for sipping on a cozy evening or celebrating a special occasion!
This drink combines the smooth warmth of bourbon with the sweet and refreshing note of pear, elevated by the zing of ginger and a hint of lemon. Cheers! 🍐🥃
Can I Use Store-Bought Ginger Syrup?
Absolutely! Store-bought ginger syrup works perfectly if you’re short on time. Just make sure to taste it first, as sweetness levels can vary.
What Can I Substitute for Pear Juice?
If pear juice isn’t available, apple juice is a great alternative that still provides a sweet flavor. You can also use white grape juice for a milder taste!
How Do I Adjust the Sweetness of the Cocktail?
If you prefer your cocktail less sweet, you can reduce the amount of ginger syrup or lemon juice. Taste it after shaking and adjust as needed—just remember, the flavors will mellow once served over ice!
Can I Make This Cocktail in Advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the ginger syrup and juice components ahead of time. Mix everything (except ice) in advance, then shake with ice just before serving for the best flavor and chill!
