Homemade pomegranate simple syrup combines with gin, lemon and a splash of seltzer in this sweet and tangy winter cocktail. This drink is perfect for Valentine's or Galentine's day!
With Valentine's day approaching, I thought we might all benefit from a fun pink drink. Homemade pomegranate syrup does the trick and takes this simple drink to the next level!
Why this recipe works
- Quick and easy: Ready in just 10 minutes of active time
- Versatile: Try with vodka or flavored seltzer
- Pretty in pink: Impress your friends with a pink cocktail!
- Only 5 ingredients
Ingredients
Pomegranate: One large pomegranate yields about ⅓ cup to ½ cup pomegranate juice.
Lemon: One medium lemon yields 2 ounces, or 4 tablespoons of lemon juice.
Step by step instructions
To make pomegranate simple syrup
I recommend making the simple syrup in advance so that it doesn't warm up your drink. You can also transfer the syrup to a small container and freeze for 15-30 minutes to cool it down.
Step one. Remove seeds from the pomegranate. Place in a large mixing bowl and mash with a potato masher until mostly broken down. The goal is to get as much pomegranate juice from the seeds as possible.
Step two. Strain pomegranate juice through a fine mesh colander.
Step three. Combine equal amounts pomegranate juice and sugar in a small bowl. You can weigh out the juice and sugar to be exact but it's okay if you don't have a scale.
Step four. Heat the simple syrup until melted on the stove or in the microwave:
Stove method: Transfer liquid and sugar to a small sauce pot over medium heat. Cook until the sugar is melted, whisking frequently. This should only take a few minutes.
Microwave method: Transfer sugar and juice to a small microwave safe bowl or cup. Microwave for 30 seconds to a minute, or until whisking causes the sugar to dissolve.
To make the drinks
This recipe makes four drinks. You can either pour them up separately or combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker.
Recipe FAQ
Yes! You can use the same volume of store-bought juice as you would homemade.
This cocktail works well with vodka. I haven't tried it with bourbon but can see it tasting great!
Since grenadine syrup is supposed to be pomegranate syrup, you could technically use it. I recommend sticking to making your own because syrup flavors may vary by brand.
Simple syrup made with just water and sugar will last in the fridge for up to a month. Since we're adding fresh juice to this syrup, I recommend keeping it refrigerated for no more than 3-4 days.
If you like this recipe you may enjoy this peach margarita slushy.
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Pomegranate and Gin Cocktail
Ingredients
- 1 large pomegranate see note #1
- ¼ cup sugar plus more for glasses
- 8 ounces gin see note #2
- 3 ounces lemon juice
- ice for serving
- 2 ounces orange unsweetened seltzer see note #3
Instructions
- Remove seeds from the pomegranate. Place in a large mixing bowl and mash with a potato masher until mostly broken down. The goal is to remove as much pomegranate juice as possible.
- Strain pomegranate juice through a fine mesh colander.
- Combine roughly ¼ cup (65 grams) sugar and roughly ¼ cup (65 grams) pomegranate juice in a small sauce pot. Place on the stove over medium heat. Stir occasionally until sugar is completely melted. Refrigerate until cooled.
- Sprinkle enough sugar to coat a plate. Lightly wet a paper towel or cloth. Run along the rim of a cocktail glass to wet. Place the glass rim in the sugar to coat.
- To make four drinks: Combine 8 ounces gin, 3 ounces of the pomegranate simple syrup, 3 ounces lemon juice in a cocktail shaker. Shake to combine. Pour over ice. Add ½ ounce seltzer to each drink. (There should be about 1 ounce of simple syrup left over).
- To make one drink: Combine 2 ounces gin, ¾ ounce simple syrup, ¾ ounce lemon juice in a cocktail shaker. Pour over ice. Top with ½ ounce seltzer.
Video
Notes
- Pomegranate: An equal amount of pomegranate juice can be used in place of prepping your own pomegranate.
- Gin: Each cocktail will have 2 ounces of gin. Decrease to 6 ounces gin for a lighter drink (1.5 ounces per drink).
- Seltzer: Plain seltzer also works. I like to use orange seltzer for a light orange flavor.
- Microwave simple syrup: Transfer sugar and juice to a small microwave safe bowl or cup. Microwave for 30 seconds to a minute, or until whisking causes the sugar to dissolve.
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