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This Spiced Pear Gin cocktail is a delightful blend of vibrant fruitiness and warm spices, perfect for festive gatherings or cozy nights in. Its balance of flavors—from juicy pear and zesty lemon to the aromatic touch of cardamom bitters—is both refreshing and comforting.
I first created this cocktail for a fall dinner party, and it instantly became a favorite among my friends and family. Now, it’s my go-to when I want to impress guests with minimal effort.
- Gin: for its crisp botanical base
- Pear juice: for a sweet fruit-forward note
- St George Spiced Pear Liqueur: offering warmth and beautiful spiced undertones
- Lemon juice: balances out the sweetness with a hint of acidity
- Cardamom bitters: introduce a subtle aromatic depth
- Slice of pear (garnish): providing an elegant and visual touch
- A sprig of thyme (garnish): adding a fresh herbal aroma
How To Make Spiced Pear Gin
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Gather all your ingredients beforehand. Ensure your garnishes (pear slice and thyme sprig) are fresh and washed.
- Build the Cocktail:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add gin, pear juice, spiced pear liqueur, lemon juice, and cardamom bitters.
- Shake for Perfection:
- Shake the shaker vigorously until its exterior feels frosty and cold to ensure the ingredients are thoroughly mixed and chilled.
- Strain and Serve:
- Strain the mixture into a glass filled with new ice cubes. This keeps the drink perfectly cold and undiluted.
- Garnish and Finish:
- Add the pear slice and a sprig of thyme to lend a festive and aromatic finishing touch to your cocktail.
Storage Tips
If you prepare a batch for entertaining, mix the ingredients (excluding ice and garnishes) a day ahead and store it in a sealed container in the fridge. Garnish freshly before serving to ensure aromas are vibrant and inviting.
Ingredient Substitutions
If spiced pear liqueur is unavailable, try a pear brandy or another pear-flavored spirit. You can also replace cardamom bitters with a few drops of orange bitters for a fruitier twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside hearty cheese platters, roasted vegetables, or light desserts like almond cookies to let the cocktail’s unique flavors shine.
This cocktail reminds me of crisp fall afternoons spent picking pears with my family. The combination of seasonal fruits and spices always brings back warm memories. It is not just a drink but a small celebration of autumn in every sip.
Recipe FAQs
- → What is the best gin to use for this cocktail?
A dry gin with floral or citrus notes works best to complement the pear and spices in this drink. Brands like Hendrick's or Tanqueray are excellent choices.
- → Can I substitute the pear liqueur?
Yes, you can use another spiced fruit liqueur, such as apple or plum, but the flavor profile may vary slightly.
- → How can I make this cocktail non-alcoholic?
Replace the gin with a juniper-flavored tonic or soda and the pear liqueur with a spiced pear syrup for a mocktail version.
- → What type of pear juice should I use?
Freshly pressed pear juice is ideal for its natural sweetness and vibrant flavor. If unavailable, high-quality packaged juice works as well.
- → Can I add more garnish to this cocktail?
Absolutely! You can add a cinnamon stick, star anise, or orange peel for additional festive touches and aroma.