This Spiced Cranberry Gin and Tonic is a festive twist on a classic drink! The tartness of cranberries mixes perfectly with the refreshing gin and a hint of spices.
I love serving this colorful drink during gatherings. It’s like a party in a glass! Just mix and garnish with a sprig of rosemary for that extra touch of cheer. Cheers!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Gin: Choose a good quality gin that you enjoy, as it’s the star of the show. If you prefer a milder flavor, you could substitute it with a vodka.
Cranberry Juice: Unsweetened cranberry juice gives the drink a nice tartness. If you can’t find unsweetened, look for lightly sweetened options or even some cranberry cocktail blends, but adjust the simple syrup accordingly.
Simple Syrup: A homemade spiced simple syrup adds a warm flavor. You can easily substitute it with store-bought syrup or honey if you’re in a crunch. Just remember that the flavor will differ slightly.
Fresh Cranberries: Though fresh is best for garnishing, frozen cranberries work too, adding a pop of color while chilling the drink!
Rosemary: If you don’t have rosemary, thyme could also work well, providing an herbaceous note.
How Do I Make the Perfect Spiced Simple Syrup?
Creating a great spiced simple syrup is all about letting the flavors infuse. Follow these steps to ensure your syrup is just right:
- Combine equal amounts of sugar and water in a saucepan. Start with 1/2 cup each for a small batch.
- Add your spices—1 cinnamon stick, 2-3 cloves, and a small piece of star anise. Adjust according to your preference!
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently until the sugar fully dissolves.
- Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before removing it from heat. This is a crucial step for deep flavors.
- After cooling, strain out the spices and store the syrup for later use!
This syrup adds a delightful warmth to your drink, making it perfect for those cozy evenings.
Spiced Cranberry Gin And Tonic
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz cranberry juice (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1/2 oz simple syrup infused with spices (see instructions below)
- Tonic water, to top off your drink
- Fresh cranberries, for garnish
- Fresh rosemary sprig, for garnish
- Ice cubes
- 1 star anise (optional, for infusion and garnish)
- Spices for simple syrup infusion:
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2-3 cloves
- A small piece of star anise
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cocktail takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus the few minutes needed to make the spiced simple syrup. The syrup can be made ahead of time and stored for up to two weeks in the fridge. Just mix and enjoy whenever you’re ready for a refreshing drink!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Spiced Simple Syrup:
Start by combining 1/2 cup sugar and 1/2 cup water in a small saucepan. Then, add in the cinnamon stick, cloves, and star anise. Heat it over medium, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the spices to infuse their flavor. Once done, set it aside to cool and then strain out the spices. This sweet syrup will add the perfect warmth to your cocktail!
2. Assemble Your Cocktail:
Grab a rocks or stemless wine glass and fill it with ice cubes. Pour in 2 oz of gin over the ice, followed by 1 oz of cranberry juice, and then add in 1/2 oz of your homemade spiced simple syrup. Don’t worry if it looks a little colorful at this point; it will come together beautifully!
3. Top it Off:
Now, gently top off your drink with tonic water to your liking. Stir everything together carefully, being sure not to disturb the ice too much.
4. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finally, it’s time to make your drink pretty! Garnish with a handful of fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary. If you want an extra festive touch, you can also float a star anise on top or place it near the base of the glass for decoration. Serve it up immediately and enjoy the refreshing blend of spiced cranberry and gin vibes!
This drink is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Cheers to a wonderful and flavorful cocktail experience!
Can I Make the Spiced Simple Syrup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the spiced simple syrup in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. This makes it super convenient to whip up your cocktails whenever you like!
What If I Can’t Find Fresh Cranberries?
No worries! If fresh cranberries aren’t available, you can use frozen cranberries instead. They’ll work just as well for garnish and won’t affect the overall flavor of your drink.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Drink?
Yes! If you prefer a sweeter cocktail, simply add a bit more of the spiced simple syrup. Start with an additional 1/4 oz and taste as you go until you reach your desired sweetness.
What Other Garnishes Can I Use?
If you don’t have rosemary or fresh cranberries, consider garnishing with a slice of orange or lemon for a citrusy twist, or even a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds for an added pop of color and flavor!