This Vanilla Pear Bourbon Cocktail is a delightful mix of sweet pears, smooth bourbon, and a hint of vanilla. It’s the perfect drink for cozy evenings or special occasions!
Who knew pears could be so fancy? Every sip is like a warm hug. I love serving this with ice and a slice of fresh pear on top—cheers to easy and tasty drinks!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bourbon: This is the backbone of the cocktail, offering depth and warmth. I recommend a mid-range bourbon for a smooth finish. If you’re looking for a lighter flavor, try rye whiskey instead, as it has a spicier note.
Pear Juice: Freshly pressed pear juice is ideal, but store-bought works just fine too. If you’re out of pear juice, apple juice or white grape juice can be great alternatives for a similar sweetness.
Vanilla Syrup: A homemade syrup adds a lovely flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought vanilla syrup. Or, for a shortcut, just add a drop of vanilla extract to your cocktail instead of syrup.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is always best for brightening flavors. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice is okay but try to choose one without added sugar for the best taste.
How Do You Make Vanilla Syrup Easily?
Making vanilla syrup is simple and elevates your cocktail. First, combine equal parts water and sugar in a saucepan, and add a split vanilla bean for flavor. Here’s the easy method:
- Boil water and sugar until dissolved.
- Let it simmer with the vanilla bean for about 5 minutes.
- Allow it to cool and steep for a stronger taste.
- Store in the fridge for quick use later!
This syrup keeps well for a few weeks, so it’s handy for making several cocktails! The warmth of vanilla paired with pear and bourbon makes for a cozy drink any time of year.
Vanilla Pear Bourbon Cocktail
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz pear juice (freshly pressed or store-bought)
- 1/2 oz vanilla syrup (see instructions below)
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Ice cubes
- Fresh pear slice, for garnish
- Vanilla bean pod or vanilla pod piece, for garnish
For the Vanilla Syrup:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise (or 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time to make the vanilla syrup and cocktail, plus an additional 15–20 minutes for the syrup to steep. You’ll be sipping this delightful cocktail in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Vanilla Syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine the water and granulated sugar. Add the split vanilla bean pod for flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Once dissolved, reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes. Afterward, remove it from the heat and let it steep for 15–20 minutes to enhance the vanilla flavor. Finally, take out the vanilla bean pod and store the syrup in a sealed container in the refrigerator. If you’re using vanilla extract, add it once the syrup has cooled.
2. Prepare the Cocktail:
Begin by filling an Old Fashioned glass with ice cubes to chill it. In a cocktail shaker, pour in the bourbon, pear juice, homemade vanilla syrup, fresh lemon juice, and a couple of dashes of Angostura bitters. This mixture combines all the delicious flavors for your cocktail!
3. Shake It Up:
Add more ice to the shaker, and then secure the lid. Shake well for about 15 seconds or until you feel the shaker getting cold. This ensures that all the ingredients are well mixed and chilled.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Now, strain the mixture into your prepared glass over fresh ice. To make it visually appealing, garnish your drink with a thin slice of fresh pear on the rim and place a vanilla bean pod or piece alongside as decoration. It’ll look as good as it tastes!
5. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and take a moment to enjoy the warm, fruity, and vanilla-infused flavors. Each sip is a cozy treat, perfect for gatherings or a relaxing evening at home. Cheers!
Can I Use a Different Type of Whiskey?
Absolutely! While bourbon is recommended for its sweetness and depth, you can use rye whiskey for a spicier flavor or even a smooth Irish whiskey for a lighter, more herbal note. Just keep in mind that the taste of the cocktail will change slightly with different spirits.
Is There a Substitute for Pear Juice?
Yes, if you’re unable to find pear juice, you can substitute it with apple juice or white grape juice. Both of these options will maintain the sweetness and enhance the drink’s overall flavor without a noticeable change.
How Should I Store Leftover Vanilla Syrup?
Store any leftover vanilla syrup in a sealed container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about two weeks. Just give it a good shake or stir before using it again to ensure it mixes well in your cocktail!
Can I Make the Vanilla Syrup in Advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the vanilla syrup ahead of time and store it in the fridge. It’s a great time-saver for future cocktails, making it easy to whip up a drink whenever the mood strikes. Enjoy your mixology!