This fun twist on the classic Negroni brings out the cozy flavors of gingerbread. Enjoy a mix of gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari, all with a spicy ginger kick!
If you’re like me, the aroma of this drink will fill your home with holiday cheer. I love garnishing it with a cinnamon stick for the perfect festive touch. Cheers! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Gin: A classic London Dry gin works well for balance, but feel free to use a more flavored gin if you prefer a unique twist.
Sweet Vermouth: This adds sweetness and complexity. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, you can find non-alcoholic vermouth substitutes or make a mix with grape juice and a splash of balsamic vinegar.
Campari: This bitter liqueur is essential for the Negroni’s flavor. If you want something less intense, swap it for Aperol, which is milder and sweeter.
Gingerbread Syrup: While homemade adds a personal touch, store-bought ginger syrup or even simple syrup mixed with ground ginger can serve in a pinch for ease.
How Do I Make the Gingerbread Syrup Without a Fuss?
Making gingerbread syrup is super simple and can be done in just a few minutes. It adds a lovely warm spice flavor to your cocktail. Here’s how:
- Combine all syrup ingredients in a saucepan—water, brown sugar, and spices.
- Heat over medium until it simmers, stirring until dissolved.
- Let it simmer on low for about 5 minutes for infusing flavors.
- Remove from heat, add vanilla, and strain to remove spices once cooled.
This syrup can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks, so make extra for your holiday drinks!
Gingerbread Negroni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 oz gin
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 1 oz Campari
- 1/2 oz gingerbread syrup (recipe below)
- Ice cubes
- Dried orange slice for garnish
- Optional: gingerbread cookies, for serving
For the Gingerbread Syrup:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Gingerbread Negroni will take about 10 minutes to prepare the syrup and about 5 minutes to mix the cocktail. Including the cooling time for the syrup, plan for around 30 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Gingerbread Syrup:
In a small saucepan, mix together the water, brown sugar, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg. Heat over medium heat until the mixture starts to simmer, stirring occasionally until the sugar is fully dissolved. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes to let all those lovely spices mingle. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow it to cool and then strain out the spices. Store your gingerbread syrup in the fridge for future use!
2. Build the Cocktail:
To make your Gingerbread Negroni, fill a mixing glass with ice. Pour in the gin, sweet vermouth, Campari, and that tasty gingerbread syrup you just made.
3. Mix it Up:
Stir the mixture gently for about 20 seconds. You want it chilled and perfectly blended, so don’t rush this step!
4. Strain and Serve:
Now, strain your mixture into an old-fashioned glass filled with fresh ice cubes. The refreshing chill will make it extra delicious!
5. Garnish and Enjoy:
Add a dried orange slice on top for a beautiful garnish and a pop of flavor. If you’re in the mood, serve with some gingerbread cookies on the side for a festive treat!
Enjoy your warm, spicy Gingerbread Negroni, perfect for cozy holiday evenings! Cheers! 🍹
Can I Use a Different Type of Syrup?
Absolutely! If you don’t want to make gingerbread syrup, you can use a store-bought ginger syrup or a simple syrup mixed with ground ginger and a touch of molasses for that warm flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Gingerbread Syrup?
Store any leftover gingerbread syrup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. It works great in other cocktails or even drizzled over desserts!
Can I Make This Cocktail Ahead of Time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the gingerbread syrup in advance. Mix the cocktail ingredients and store them in a sealed container (without ice) for up to a day. Just shake or stir again with ice before serving!
What Can I Use as a Garnish?
If you can’t find dried orange slices, feel free to use a twist of fresh orange peel or even a cinnamon stick for a lovely aromatic touch!
