This Ginger Pear Bourbon Cocktail is a tasty mix of sweet pear, spicy ginger, and smooth bourbon. It’s perfect for cozy evenings or special gatherings!
Mixing this drink feels like a fun little cocktail party at home! I love the warm spices and fruity flavor— it makes me feel fancy without too much fuss. Cheers! 🥂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bourbon Whiskey: The base of this cocktail. A smooth bourbon adds warmth. If you prefer a different spirit, try rye whiskey for a spicier kick or even vodka for a lighter version.
Pear Juice: Freshly pressed pear juice is best for flavor. But if you can’t find it, bottled pear nectar works well too. When using bottled options, check for added sugars or preservatives.
Ginger Syrup: This adds a lovely spicy note. You can buy it pre-made, but homemade is simple! Just simmer equal parts sugar and water with ginger slices. If you’re short on time, try using ginger ale or ginger beer as a quick substitute.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavor. Bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but it won’t have the same freshness. To enhance tang, consider adding a splash of lime juice.
How Do I Make Ginger Syrup?
Ginger syrup is easy to prepare and a key flavor booster for this cocktail. Here’s how to make it:
- Combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan (for example, 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water).
- Add fresh ginger slices (around 4-5 slices, peeled).
- Simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
- Remove from heat, strain, and let it cool. Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to a week!
Having this syrup on hand can come in handy for other drinks or even drizzling on desserts.
How to Make a Ginger Pear Bourbon Cocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
- 1 oz pear juice (freshly pressed or high-quality bottled)
- 0.5 oz ginger syrup
- 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
- Ice cubes
- Pear slice (for garnish)
- Rosemary sprig (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Ginger Pear Bourbon Cocktail takes about 10 minutes to prepare and make. Enjoy this quick and refreshing drink perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Ginger Syrup:
Start by making your ginger syrup. In a small saucepan, combine equal parts sugar and water (for example, 1 cup each). Add several slices of fresh ginger. Heat the mixture over low heat, letting it simmer gently for about 10 minutes. Once it’s simmered, strain out the ginger slices and let the syrup cool. This syrup will bring a lovely spicy sweetness to your cocktail.
2. Mix the Cocktail:
In a cocktail shaker, pour in the bourbon, pear juice, ginger syrup, and fresh lemon juice. These ingredients blend beautifully to create a balanced flavor.
3. Shake It Up:
Fill the shaker with ice cubes. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. You want the mixture to be well chilled and combined, so shake it up!
4. Strain and Serve:
Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. This will help keep your drink nice and cold while you sip.
5. Add the Final Touches:
For a lovely presentation, garnish your drink with a thin slice of pear skewered on a cocktail pick, and add a sprig of rosemary for a delightful aroma. The garnish not only looks beautiful but also adds a hint of extra flavor.
6. Enjoy!
Your refreshing Ginger Pear Bourbon Cocktail is now ready to enjoy. The combination of sweet pear, spicy ginger, and smooth bourbon will surely impress your guests or make a cozy night in feel extra special.
Can I Use Different Types of Whiskey?
Absolutely! While bourbon gives a sweet and smooth flavor, you can substitute it with rye whiskey for a spicier profile or even use a nice vodka if you prefer something lighter. Just keep in mind that the overall flavor of the cocktail will change slightly.
What If I Can’t Find Pear Juice?
No problem! If you can’t find pear juice, high-quality pear nectar, or even apple juice can work as substitutions. Just ensure the substitute has a similar sweetness to keep the balance of flavors.
How Can I Store Leftover Ginger Syrup?
Store any leftover ginger syrup in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It’s great for mixing into other cocktails, drizzling over desserts, or adding to tea for extra flavor!
Can I Make This Cocktail Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients in advance. Mix the bourbon, pear juice, ginger syrup, and lemon juice, and store in the fridge. Just shake with ice right before serving to ensure it’s well chilled!
