This Spiced Cranberry Gin and Tonic is a colorful twist on the classic drink! With a hint of cranberry sweetness and warm spices, it’s perfect for any occasion.
Cheers to your new favorite drink! I love to garnish mine with a sprig of rosemary for that extra fancy touch—because let’s face it, we all want to feel a bit special! 🥂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Gin: The choice of gin can really affect the taste. I love using a floral gin, as it complements the cranberries nicely. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, there are great gin alternatives that mimic the botanical flavors.
Cranberry Juice: For the best flavor, go for unsweetened cranberry juice. If you can’t find it, you can mix regular cranberry juice with a splash of lemon juice to balance out the sweetness.
Spiced Simple Syrup: Making your own syrup is easy! If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought spiced syrups, or even regular simple syrup and add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to it for a quick alternative.
Fresh Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are great for garnish, but if they’re out of season, consider using frozen ones. They’ll look pretty and taste just as good once they thaw.
How Do You Make Spiced Simple Syrup?
Creating your own spiced syrup adds a lovely depth to your drink. It’s quite simple! Just follow these steps:
- Combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan (like ½ cup each).
- Add your spices: 1 cinnamon stick, 2-3 whole cloves, and 1 star anise pod.
- Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves.
- Simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Cool the syrup and strain out the spices before using.
This syrup can be stored in the fridge for about a month, making it a great time-saver for future drinks!
Spiced Cranberry Gin And Tonic
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz gin
- 3 oz tonic water
- 1 oz cranberry juice (preferably unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1/2 oz simple syrup infused with warm spices (such as cinnamon, cloves, and star anise)
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Fresh rosemary sprig (for garnish)
- Ice cubes
- Lime wedge (optional, for serving)
Time Needed:
This Spiced Cranberry Gin and Tonic is quick and easy! You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare the spiced simple syrup and mix your drink. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or entertaining friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spiced Simple Syrup:
To infuse your syrup with warm spices, grab a small saucepan. Combine equal parts sugar and water (about ½ cup each). Then, add in 1 cinnamon stick, 2-3 whole cloves, and 1 star anise pod. Heat the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, then let it simmer for about 5 minutes. After it cools, strain it to remove the spices. You’ll have a delicious syrup ready to go!
2. Assemble Your Drink:
Take a rocks glass and fill it with ice cubes. Next, pour in 2 oz of gin over the ice. Follow that up with the spiced simple syrup (½ oz) and 1 oz of cranberry juice. These flavors create a wonderful base for your drink.
3. Add the Tonic Water:
Now, gently top off your drink with 3 oz of tonic water. Give it a light stir to mix everything together. Be careful not to stir too hard; you want to keep the bubbles in the tonic for that refreshing fizz!
4. Garnish and Serve:
For a touch of festivity, add a handful of fresh cranberries on top. Garnish your drink with a sprig of fresh rosemary and, if you like, a lime wedge on the rim for a pop of color and extra flavor. This drink is not just tasty; it’s also a feast for the eyes!
5. Enjoy!
Serve your Spiced Cranberry Gin and Tonic immediately. Sip, relax, and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors that celebrate the season!
Can I Use Different Types of Gin?
Absolutely! The type of gin you choose can change the flavor profile of your drink. A floral gin adds a lovely layer of complexity, while a traditional London dry gin offers a more classic taste. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite!
Can I Make the Spiced Simple Syrup in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the spiced simple syrup ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a month. Just give it a good shake before using as the spices may settle at the bottom.
How Can I Make This Drink Non-Alcoholic?
To make a non-alcoholic version, simply substitute the gin with a non-alcoholic gin alternative or more tonic water. You can also add a splash of soda for a refreshing twist!
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Drink?
Serve your Spiced Cranberry Gin and Tonic over ice in a rocks glass for a classic look. It’s also fantastic for holiday gatherings—consider using festive glassware to elevate the presentation!
