This refreshing spiced vanilla pear cocktail is perfect for a cozy gathering! It combines sweet pear juice with warm spices and a hint of vanilla for a lovely twist.
It’s super easy to make, and trust me, your friends will think you’re a mixologist! I love serving it over ice with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top—so festive!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pear Juice: Freshly pressed pear juice is best for vibrant flavor, but store-bought is fine too. If pears aren’t available, apple juice can make a nice alternative—just add a splash of extra lemon juice for tartness!
Alcohol: Vodka offers a clean taste, while spiced rum adds warmth. If you’re avoiding alcohol, substitute with sparkling water or a non-alcoholic spirit for a refreshing mocktail.
Vanilla Syrup: If you don’t have vanilla syrup, mix simple syrup with a drop of vanilla extract. You can also try agave syrup for a different sweetness. I personally love the hint of vanilla as it complements the pear nicely!
Ground Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is great, but a cinnamon stick adds a nice touch when stirring. If you want more warmth, try adding a pinch of nutmeg as well.
How Do I Perfectly Rim My Glass?
Rimming the glass enhances both the presentation and flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by pouring lemon juice onto a small plate, wide enough for the rim of your glass.
- Pour cinnamon sugar onto another plate, again, wide enough for easy dipping.
- Gently dip the rim of your glass into the lemon juice, ensuring it’s coated but not dripping.
- Next, dip the wet rim into the cinnamon sugar, twisting the glass to coat evenly.
- Let it sit for a moment before pouring in your cocktail!
This will give your drink a fantastic flavor boost and makes for an impressive presentation that your guests will love!
Quick Spiced Vanilla Pear Cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 oz pear juice (freshly pressed or store-bought)
- 1.5 oz vodka or spiced rum (optional, depending on preference)
- 1/2 oz vanilla syrup (or simple syrup with a few drops of vanilla extract)
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon or cinnamon stick (for stirring)
- Pinch of ground star anise or a small star anise pod
- Ice cubes
- Garnish: fresh sage leaf or cinnamon stick
- For rimming glass: cinnamon sugar or ground cinnamon mixed with sugar
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cocktail takes about 5-10 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a short time gathering ingredients, shaking the mix, and preparing your glass. It’s quick, fun, and perfect for last-minute gatherings or cozy nights in!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Glass
Start by preparing your glass. Take a piece of lemon and rub it around the rim of the glass. This will help the cinnamon sugar stick. Next, dip the rim into a plate of cinnamon sugar or a mix of ground cinnamon and sugar. This adds an extra flavor boost and looks great!
2. Mix the Ingredients
Grab a cocktail shaker and fill it with ice cubes. Add in the pear juice, vodka or spiced rum (if you’re using it), vanilla syrup, and fresh lemon juice. Then, add a pinch of ground cinnamon or drop in a cinnamon stick to give it that warm spice flavor. Lastly, toss in a pinch of ground star anise or a small star anise pod for an aromatic touch.
3. Shake It Up
Secure the lid on your cocktail shaker and shake it well for about 15 seconds. You want everything nicely chilled and combined. Once you’re done, you’ll have a delicious blend of flavor ready to pour!
4. Strain and Serve
Now it’s time to pour! Strain the cocktail mixture into the prepared glass filled with fresh ice. The cinnamon-sugar rim should add a lovely touch of sweetness with every sip.
5. Garnish and Enjoy
Finish off your cocktail by garnishing it with a fresh sage leaf or a cinnamon stick. This not only adds to the visual appeal but also enhances the aroma while drinking. Serve immediately and enjoy the cozy blend of spiced vanilla and sweet pear flavors!
The photo perfectly captures the essence of this drink: a light amber-hued cocktail with a delightful rim, elegantly garnished, set alongside fresh pears and warming spices. Cheers!
Can I Use Other Types of Juice?
Absolutely! If you can’t find pear juice, apple juice or white grape juice can work as well. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly, so adjust the sweetness with lemon juice as needed.
How Can I Make This Cocktail Non-Alcoholic?
Simply omit the vodka or spiced rum! You can replace it with sparkling water or a non-alcoholic spirit to maintain a similar volume and a refreshing taste without the alcohol.
Can I Prepare This Cocktail in Advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the juice mixture ahead of time (up to 2 hours in advance) and store it in the fridge. Just shake it with ice right before serving to get that nice chill!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Cocktail?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good shake before enjoying again. Note that some separation may occur, so it’s good to mix it back up!
