A Prohibition-era classic, the Bee’s Knees is a simple yet elegant gin cocktail that combines the bright zest of lemon with the floral sweetness of honey. Light, refreshing, and effortlessly sophisticated, it’s a perfect balance of sweet and tart.
🍸 Style: Sour / Classic
🌿 Flavor Profile: Citrusy, floral, slightly sweet
🕰 Time to Make: 5 minutes
🥃 Glassware: Coupe or Martini glass
🧊 Method: Shaken
Combine 1 part honey and 1 part hot water in a small saucepan or jar.
Stir until fully dissolved.
Let cool and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cocktail shaker
Jigger or measuring tool
Fine mesh strainer
Citrus juicer or reamer
Coupe or Martini glass
Place the coupe glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water to chill while preparing the cocktail.
In a cocktail shaker, combine:
2 oz gin
¾ oz honey syrup
¾ oz fresh lemon juice
Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds until well-chilled and slightly frothy.
Discard the ice water from the glass.
Double strain the cocktail through a fine mesh strainer into the chilled glass to ensure a silky texture.
Express the oils from a lemon twist over the surface of the drink, then drop it in or rest it on the rim.
For a floral touch, add an edible flower for visual appeal.
Floral Twist: Add a few drops of lavender bitters or muddle fresh thyme for a more herbal profile.
Spicy Kick: Infuse the honey syrup with a slice of ginger or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Light & Refreshing: Top with a splash of soda water for a Bee’s Knees Fizz.
Boozier Version: Use a barrel-aged gin for a deeper, more robust flavor.
Winter Honey: Infuse the honey syrup with cinnamon sticks or star anise for a warm, spiced profile.
Appetizers: Goat cheese crostini, lemon-garlic shrimp, or rosemary spiced nuts
Desserts: Lemon tart, honey cake, or shortbread cookies
Occasions: Afternoon tea, brunch, or pre-dinner cocktail hour
0 servings