What To Know
- Garnish with a lemon twist or a sprig of fresh mint for a touch of elegance.
- Pack up a batch of make ahead bees knees for a refreshing drink in the park.
- Bees knees are traditionally served in a coupe glass or a rocks glass.
In the sweltering summer heat, there’s nothing more refreshing than a chilled, invigorating cocktail. But who has time to fuss over freshly squeezed lemons and muddled honey when the sun is shining and the grill is calling? Enter the make ahead bees knees, a cocktail that combines the classic flavors of lemon, honey, and gin with the convenience of advance preparation.
Ingredients and Equipment
- 1 cup gin
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup water
- Ice
- Cocktail shaker
- Strainer
- Glassware
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Combine Ingredients
In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, lemon juice, honey, and water.
2. Shake Vigorously
Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously until the mixture is well chilled and frothy.
3. Strain into Glasses
Strain the mixture into chilled glasses filled with ice.
4. Garnish (Optional)
Garnish with a lemon twist or a sprig of fresh mint for a touch of elegance.
Tips for Perfect Make Ahead Bees Knees
- Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and pure honey will elevate the flavor of your cocktail.
- Shake it up: A vigorous shake is essential for creating a frothy, flavorful drink.
- Chill thoroughly: Ice-cold ingredients and glassware will keep your bees knees refreshingly chilled.
- Make ahead: The beauty of this cocktail is that it can be made ahead of time. Simply prepare it up to step 3 and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving.
Variations on the Classic
Honey Variations
- Wildflower honey: Adds a floral, herbaceous touch.
- Manuka honey: Known for its antibacterial properties and a slightly earthy flavor.
- Clover honey: A light, delicate honey that complements the lemon and gin.
Spirit Variations
- Vodka: A neutral spirit that allows the lemon and honey to shine.
- Whiskey: Adds a smoky, oaky flavor to the mix.
- Tequila: Creates a refreshing twist with agave notes.
Serving Suggestions
- Summer picnics: Pack up a batch of make ahead bees knees for a refreshing drink in the park.
- Poolside lounging: Sip on a chilled bees knees while soaking up the sun.
- Rooftop gatherings: Enjoy a sophisticated cocktail with stunning city views.
Make Ahead Bees Knees: The Ultimate Summer Essential
With its effortless preparation and refreshing flavor, the make ahead bees knees is the perfect cocktail for any summer occasion. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this easy-to-make drink will become your go-to summer sip.
What People Want to Know
Q: How long will make ahead bees knees last in the refrigerator?
A: Properly stored in an airtight container, make ahead bees knees can last up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
A: While fresh lemon juice is preferred, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch.
Q: What kind of glassware is best for serving bees knees?
A: Bees knees are traditionally served in a coupe glass or a rocks glass.
