This Gingerbread Negroni mixes the classic cocktail with warm spices. It’s a fun twist on the traditional drink, featuring gin, sweet vermouth, and a splash of gingerbread syrup.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top, and you’re in for a treat! I love sipping on this cozy cocktail during the holidays while wrapping presents—it really gets me in the festive spirit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Gin: A good quality gin works best here. I personally love using a London dry gin for its bold flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, try a floral gin or even a vodka in a pinch.
Sweet Vermouth: Use any sweet vermouth you enjoy! Italian vermouths are great, but Spanish or even rosso varieties can add different flavors. Just pick one you like, and it’ll shine in the drink.
Campari: This bitter liqueur is key to the Negroni. If you want less bitterness, consider using Aperol instead. It will give a lighter, sweeter twist while still maintaining that lovely color.
Gingerbread Syrup: Making your own syrup adds rich flavor. If you’re short on time, you can substitute maple syrup or store-bought gingerbread syrup. A bit of molasses mixed with regular syrup can work too.
How Do You Make Gingerbread Syrup?
Making gingerbread syrup is simple and adds a lot of warmth to your cocktail. You just combine sugar, water, and spices to create that distinct gingerbread flavor. Here’s how:
- In a saucepan, mix equal parts sugar and water (about 1 cup each).
- Add spices like ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of molasses for depth.
- Simmer gently, stirring until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is well combined. Let cool before using.
This syrup is so versatile; you can even use it in coffee or drizzle it over pancakes!
Gingerbread Negroni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 oz gin
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 1 oz Campari
- 0.5 oz gingerbread syrup (see notes below)
- Ice cubes
- Orange peel or dried orange slice, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Gingerbread Negroni takes about 10 minutes to prepare. This includes making the gingerbread syrup if you’re making it from scratch. Once that’s done, the cocktail itself comes together in just a couple of minutes. Perfect for a quick holiday treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Gingerbread Syrup:
In a saucepan, combine equal parts water and sugar—about 1 cup each works well. Add in lovely spices: ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and a splash of molasses or brown sugar for that deep, gingerbread flavor. Heat gently, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely and the flavors meld together. Once ready, strain the mixture to remove the spices, and let it cool aside.
2. Mix Your Cocktail:
Grab a mixing glass and fill it with ice cubes. Pour in the gin, sweet vermouth, Campari, and your cooled gingerbread syrup. Give it a good stir for about 20-30 seconds until everything’s nicely chilled and well combined. This step is key for achieving that smooth texture!
3. Serve and Garnish:
Strain your delicious mixture into an old fashioned glass filled with a large ice cube. For the final touch, garnish with a twist of orange peel or a dried orange slice to add a festive flair. This little bit of brightness complements the warm spices beautifully!
4. Enjoy Your Creation:
Take a moment to admire your Gingerbread Negroni before taking a sip. Enjoy this cozy, holiday-inspired twist on the classic drink. Cheers!
Can I Use a Different Type of Syrup?
Absolutely! If you’re short on gingerbread syrup, you can use maple syrup for a different sweet note or even honey for a natural sweetness. Just remember to adjust the quantity to taste, as some syrups are sweeter than others.
What If I Don’t Have Campari?
No worries! If you don’t have Campari, you can substitute it with Aperol for a slightly sweeter and less bitter flavor. Alternatively, use a similar bitter liqueur, but keep in mind that it may change the overall taste of the cocktail.
How Should I Store Leftover Gingerbread Syrup?
Store any leftover gingerbread syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. It’s great to have on hand for other cocktails or even to add to your morning coffee or oatmeal!
Can I Make This in Larger Batches?
Yes, you can! Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need. Prepare the gingerbread syrup in a larger batch as well, ensuring you have enough to keep the festive flavors flowing for all your guests!
