Shake Up Your Cocktails with Honey!

April 16, 2024


Welcome to your new favorite cocktail hour! If you’re looking to infuse some excitement into your drink repertoire, you’re in the right place. Today, we're exploring the sweet versatility of honey in mixology with three unique honey-based cocktails. Whether you’re hosting a party or just unwinding after a long day, these concoctions are sure to impress and refresh. Let's dive into the recipes!

1. Honey-Sage Paloma

The Paloma is a beloved Mexican cocktail typically made with grapefruit and tequila, but our version adds a herbaceous twist that elevates the classic. The Honey-Sage Paloma is beautifully balanced, combining the tang of grapefruit, the smoothness of tequila, and a hint of earthy sage, all sweetened with homemade honey syrup.

Ingredients

- 2 oz tequila
- 4 oz fresh grapefruit juice
- 1 oz honey sage syrup (recipe follows)
- Club soda to top
- Fresh sage leaves for garnish

Honey Sage Syrup

- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup water
- 4-5 fresh sage leaves

Instructions

1. To make the honey sage syrup, combine honey and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the honey dissolves. Add sage leaves; simmer for about 5 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool. Strain and reserve.

2. In a shaker filled with ice, combine tequila, grapefruit juice, and honey sage syrup. Shake well.

3. Strain into a tall glass filled with fresh ice.

4. Top with club soda and garnish with a sage leaf.

Enjoy the refreshing zip of grapefruit with the intriguing depth of sage—a cocktail that’s both invigorating and soothing.

2. Smoky Honey Whiskey Sour

For those who appreciate a cocktail with a bit of edge, the Smoky Honey Whiskey Sour is a must-try. The addition of Scotch brings a smoky layer that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the honey and the tartness of the lemon.

Ingredients

- 2 oz bourbon
- 1/2 oz Scotch (preferably a smoky variety)
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 oz honey syrup (equal parts honey and water, heated until honey dissolves, then cooled)
- Ice
- Lemon twist for garnish

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, Scotch, lemon juice, and honey syrup with ice.

2. Shake vigorously until well chilled.

3. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.

4. Garnish with a twist of lemon.

This cocktail is a perfect balance of smoky, sour, and sweet, making it a sophisticated choice for any occasion.

3. Spiced Honey Mojito

The Mojito is a classic Cuban cocktail that is loved worldwide. Our Spiced Honey Mojito introduces cinnamon and honey, adding a warm, spicy twist that’s perfect for cooler evenings or when you just want something a bit different.

Ingredients

- 2 oz white rum
- 1 oz honey syrup (as above)
- Fresh mint leaves (about 10)
- 1/2 lime, cut into 4 wedges
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Club soda to top
- Extra mint leaves and a lime wheel for garnish

Instructions

1. In a sturdy glass, muddle the mint leaves and lime wedges with the honey syrup and cinnamon to release the lime juice and mint oils.

2. Fill the glass with ice and pour over the rum.

3. Stir well and top with club soda.

4. Garnish with a sprig of mint and a lime wheel.

Refreshing, with a hint of spice and sweetness, the Spiced Honey Mojito is both invigorating and deeply flavorful, making it a perfect drink for entertaining or enjoying by yourself.


Refreshing Honey-Lavender Lemonade Mocktail

For those looking for a non-alcoholic treat that's as delightful on the senses as it is refreshing, our Honey-Lavender Lemonade Mocktail is a perfect choice. This mocktail combines the soothing qualities of lavender with the sweet and tangy flavors of honey and lemonade, creating a drink that's not only thirst-quenching but also visually stunning.

Ingredients

- 1 cup water
- 2 tbsp honey (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp dried lavender flowers
- 3/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 large lemons)
- 3 cups cold water
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slices and lavender sprigs for garnish
- optional Butterfly Pea Flowers for color

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water with the honey and dried lavender flowers. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the honey is completely dissolved.

2. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture steep for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the lavender to infuse into the syrup, creating a flavorful base.

3. Strain the lavender flowers from the syrup using a fine mesh sieve. Discard the flowers.

4. In a large pitcher, mix the fresh lemon juice with the lavender-honey syrup. Add 3 cups of cold water and stir well. Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary.

5. Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator until it's cold or serve immediately over ice in individual glasses.

6. Garnish with a slice of lemon and a sprig of lavender to enhance the visual appeal and add a touch of elegance.

This Honey-Lavender Lemonade Mocktail is not only refreshing but also a great option for social gatherings where you want to offer a sophisticated, non-alcoholic beverage that everyone can enjoy. It's a fantastic way to stay cool and treat your guests to something special that looks as good as it tastes. Enjoy this lovely blend of flavors on any warm day or during a relaxing evening at home!

Bringing It All Together

These honey-based cocktails—Honey Sage Paloma, Smoky Honey Whiskey Sour, and Spiced Honey Mojito— and our mocktail: Honey-Lavender Lemonade, showcase the incredible versatility of honey as a drink ingredient.

Each recipe offers a unique twist on traditional favorites, ensuring there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for something fruity, smoky, or spicy, mixing these up at home can turn any evening into a special occasion.

So grab your shaker, some honey, and let’s make some delicious memories! Cheers to sweet sipping adventures!