The Gingerbread Negroni is the perfect festive drink! It’s a fun twist on the classic cocktail, blending gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari with warm gingerbread spices.
This drink brings holiday cheer in every sip! I love making it for parties, and the gingerbread flavor reminds me of cozy winter nights. Cheers to deliciousness! 🥂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Gin: Use your favorite gin for a great base. London dry gin works best, but if you want something more botanical, go for a floral style. If you’re not a gin fan, consider using vodka for a milder taste.
Sweet Vermouth: A staple in many cocktails, sweet vermouth adds a rich flavor. If you can’t find it, you can substitute with rye whiskey for a different twist, though it’s a bit stronger.
Campari: This bitter Italian liqueur is essential for the classic Negroni taste. For a less bitter version, Aperol is a great substitute. Just keep in mind it will alter the flavor slightly.
Gingerbread Syrup: This homemade syrup is the star of the drink! If you’re short on time, store-bought ginger syrup can work too, or use regular simple syrup with a pinch of ginger and spices to taste.
How Do You Make the Perfect Gingerbread Syrup?
Creating your own gingerbread syrup is a simple and fun step that really enhances the drink! It adds a warm, cozy flavor that pairs beautifully with the cocktail’s other elements. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by heating your water and brown sugar in a saucepan until the sugar dissolves. This forms the base of your syrup.
- Add the ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. These warming spices will bring out that gingerbread flavor.
- Let it simmer gently for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the flavors to meld well.
- Once heated, remove from heat and mix in the vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor.
- Let it cool completely before storing it in the fridge. This syrup will keep for about a month!
Gingerbread Negroni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cocktail:
- 1 oz gin
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 1 oz Campari
- 1/4 oz gingerbread syrup (see recipe below)
- Ice cubes
- Orange slice or twist, for garnish
For the Gingerbread Syrup:
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Gingerbread Negroni will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus any time needed to cool the syrup. Making the gingerbread syrup takes about 5-10 minutes, and mixing the cocktail is quick and easy! If you chill the drink and enjoy it right away, you’ll be sipping on this festive favorite in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Gingerbread Syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine the water, brown sugar, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat, making sure to stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Once dissolved, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the syrup to cool completely before using, and store any leftovers in the fridge for up to a month.
2. Build the Cocktail:
In a mixing glass filled with ice, pour in the gin, sweet vermouth, Campari, and the freshly made gingerbread syrup. Stir the mixture well for about 20-30 seconds, until the drink is well-chilled.
3. Serve the Cocktail:
Fill a rocks glass with one large ice cube or several smaller ice cubes. Carefully strain the cocktail over the ice in your glass. Finally, garnish with an orange slice or a twist of orange peel on the rim for a lovely finish.
4. Enjoy:
Serve immediately, sit back, and enjoy the warm, spicy holiday flavors of your Gingerbread Negroni. It’s perfect for cozy winter gatherings or festive celebrations. Cheers!
Can I Use Store-Bought Gingerbread Syrup?
Yes, absolutely! If you’re short on time, feel free to use a store-bought ginger syrup. Just be aware that it might change the flavor profile slightly, so start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.
What Can I Substitute for Campari?
If you prefer a less bitter cocktail, you can substitute Campari with Aperol. It will create a lighter drink with a more fruity flavor. However, it will alter the classic Negroni taste a bit.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Gingerbread Syrup?
You can store leftover gingerbread syrup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a month. Just give it a good shake before using to mix up any settled spices!
Can I Make This Drink Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can mix the cocktail ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just remember to add ice just before serving to keep it chilled!
