Try this simple cocktail recipe and you'll no longer question the name of the refreshing beverage. That's because it really is the bees knees! Bright, balanced, and made with just three ingredients, it's very easy to shake together. Gin, honey, and lemon juice are pantry staples that you most likely have on hand. When shaken in a cocktail shaker with ice, these humble ingredients yield a drink that is herbaceous and fresh, balanced by perfect citrus sweetness!
Why is it called the bees knees?
Bees knees is an expression meaning that something is excellent or very well liked. Try this cocktail and perhaps you will feel the same!
When was the bees knees popular?
The bees knees is known as a “classic cocktail” developed during the Prohibition Era. Honey and lemon juice helped to sweeten and mask the taste of poorly made alcohol.
What is gin?
Gin is a distilled spirit that is considered “neutral” due to its usually clear color. The flavor, however, is anything but! Gin is distilled with botanical elements—with juniper berries being required in order to call it gin. Other aromatics such as orange or lemon peel, coriander, almond, cinnamon, and other flowers and herbs make an appearance in different gin varieties.
What does gin taste like?
Depending on the amount of juniper berries used, gin often has an herbal or piney flavor that comes through first. It can also have notes of citrus, which lend nicely to this cocktail made with lemon juice.
What can I use in place of gin?
Vodka or even bourbon would taste lovely with the combination of lemon juice and honey. Try it with Meyer lemons when they are in season during winter.
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- Yields:
- 1 serving(s)
- Prep Time:
- 5 mins
- Total Time:
- 15 mins
Ingredients
For the honey syrup:
- 1/4 c.
honey
- 1/4 c.
hot water
- 2 oz.
gin
- 1 oz.
honey syrup
- 1 oz.
lemon juice
Edible flowers or a lemon twist
Directions
- Step 1For the honey syrup: In a liquid measuring cup, combine the honey and hot water. Whisk to combine. Set aside to cool to room temperature. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Step 2For the cocktail: In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, honey syrup, and lemon juice with ice. Cover and shake vigorously for about 10 seconds. Strain into a chilled coupe class and serve with a lemon twist or edible flower.
Tip: The honey syrup recipe makes enough for 8 cocktails. You can store it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. It can also be used as a sweetener for iced tea or lemonade!
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