This Ginger Pear Bourbon Cocktail is a refreshing mix of sweet pear and spicy ginger. It comes together easily and is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in!
Honestly, what could be better than sipping a drink that warms you up from the inside? I love serving this with ice and a twist of lemon—so tasty and fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bourbon: Choose a quality bourbon for the best flavor. If you’re looking for something lighter, try whiskey or even rum for a different twist. My favorite bourbon really enhances the drink’s warmth!
Pear Juice: Freshly juiced pears are ideal, but if pears aren’t in season, you can use store-bought pear juice. Just make sure it’s 100% juice without added sugars. You could also try apple juice for a tasty alternative!
Ginger Syrup: Making your own is easy and allows you to adjust how spicy it is. If short on time, grab some store-bought ginger syrup. You might also use honey or agave syrup with a sprinkle of ground ginger for a quick substitute.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice keeps the drink bright and balanced. Lime juice can work in a pinch, offering a different citrusy flavor. I love the zesty touch it gives!
How Do I Make the Perfect Ginger Syrup?
Ginger syrup is critical for this cocktail, and here’s how to ensure it’s perfect! The key is to allow the ginger to infuse its flavors fully.
- Combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan.
- Add fresh ginger slices—consider peeling them for a smoother taste.
- Let it boil, then lower the heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes. The longer it simmers, the spicier it gets!
- Cool before straining out the ginger, and store extra syrup in the fridge for future cocktails.
Try experimenting with the amount of ginger to find your preferred level of spice—it can be a game changer!
How to Make a Ginger Pear Bourbon Cocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Cocktail:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz fresh pear juice (about 1 ripe pear, juiced or blended and strained)
- 0.75 oz ginger syrup
- 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
- Ice cubes
- Pear slice, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing cocktail takes about 10 minutes to prepare, not including the time to make the ginger syrup. If you’re making the syrup from scratch, set aside an extra 15 minutes to allow it to cool down. In total, you’re looking at about 25 minutes to enjoy this delightful drink!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Ginger Syrup:
Start by preparing the ginger syrup. In a small saucepan, combine equal parts sugar and water (like 1 cup of each). Add 2-3 inches of sliced fresh ginger for that spicy kick! Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes. The longer it simmers, the stronger the ginger flavor will be. Once done, let it cool a bit, then strain to remove the ginger pieces. Store any extra in the fridge for future cocktails!
2. Prepare the Pear Juice:
While your syrup is cooling, it’s time to juice the pear. You can either use a juicer or blend a peeled and cored ripe pear until smooth. Then strain it through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to get that clear juice. The fresh pear juice adds a lovely sweetness to your drink!
3. Mix the Cocktail:
In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, fresh pear juice, ginger syrup, and lemon juice. The lemon juice brightens everything up! Fill the shaker with ice cubes, and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the mixture is chilled and combined well.
4. Serve Your Drink:
Grab a rocks glass and fill it with ice cubes. Strain the cocktail mixture into the glass, taking care to let all that goodness flow through. For the final touch, garnish with a slice of fresh pear—either standing upright or elegantly placed along the rim. This adds a beautiful presentation!
5. Enjoy!
Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy your Ginger Pear Bourbon Cocktail. It’s a delightful mix of sweet pear, spicy ginger, and warming bourbon that’s perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Store-Bought Pear Juice?
Yes! If you’re short on time, feel free to use store-bought pear juice. Just ensure it’s 100% juice for the best flavor, and avoid options with added sugars.
How Do I Make Extra Ginger Syrup?
To make a larger batch of ginger syrup, simply increase the amounts of sugar and water while maintaining a 1:1 ratio. It’s handy to have extra syrup on hand for future cocktails or to use in other drinks!
Is There a Non-Alcoholic Version of This Cocktail?
Absolutely! To make a mocktail version, replace the bourbon with an equal amount of ginger ale or sparkling water, and keep the pear juice and ginger syrup. You’ll still get that delightful ginger and pear flavor without the alcohol!
How Should I Store Leftover Ginger Syrup?
Store any leftover ginger syrup in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last for about 2-3 weeks. Just give it a good shake before using, as it may separate over time.
