Crafting Bees Knees cocktails is not only straightforward but also rewarding. With just a few ingredients, we can mix a drink that tastes as good as it looks.
As we shake together gin, fresh lemon juice, and honey syrup, we are reminded of the ingenuity of that time, when every sip told a story of rebellion and refreshment.
5 MINUTES | EASY | SERVES 1
Nutrition per serving:
160 Cals, 0g Protein, 17g Carbs, 0g Fat, 16g Sugar
EQUIPMENT
-
- Cocktail shaker
-
- Strainer
- Coupe glass
INGREDIENTS
-
- 2 oz gin
-
- 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
-
- 0.75 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey to water ratio)
- Ice
TO SERVE (OPTIONAL)
- Lemon twist
METHOD
-
- Prepare the Cocktail: In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, fresh lemon juice, and honey syrup. Add ice.
-
- Shake: Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
-
- Strain: Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
-
- Garnish: Garnish with a lemon twist, if desired.
- Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy.
As we explore the origins and variations of the Bees Knees cocktails, we will discover why this drink remains a favorite among cocktail lovers today.
Join us as we dive into the world of this timeless Prohibition-era cocktail and learn how to create the perfect Bees Knees cocktails in our own kitchens.
History and Origin
The Bees Knees cocktails have a rich history that connects it to the Prohibition era and notable figures in the cocktail world. This celebrated drink not only embodies the spirit of the time but also reflects the creativity of bartenders like Frank Meier and influential socialites like Margaret Brown.
The Role of Prohibition
Prohibition, which lasted from 1920 to 1933 in the United States, led to a surge in the popularity of speakeasies. These hidden bars required clever cocktails to mask the taste of poor-quality alcohol.
The Bees Knees cocktails became a favorite because its combination of gin, honey, and lemon made it not only tasty but also refreshing. The use of honey helped to cover up the harshness of bathtub gin.
Frank Meier and the Hôtel Ritz Paris
Frank Meier, an influential bartender, is often credited with popularizing the Bee’s Knees. He worked at the Hôtel Ritz Paris when it opened in 1921.
His book, The Artistry of Mixing Drinks, published in 1936, featured the original recipe for the cocktail. This connection to a famous establishment helped establish the drink’s reputation.
Unlike many other cocktails of the time, the Bees Knees cocktails managed to retain elegance and sophistication, drawing in patrons who longed for a taste of luxury amidst the restrictions of Prohibition.
Margaret ‘The Unsinkable Molly’ Brown’s Connection
Margaret Brown, known for her survival of the Titanic disaster, also played a role in the cocktail’s history.
While she wasn’t a bartender, her lavish parties popularized the Bees Knees cocktails among high society. Rumors suggest that she introduced the drink to affluent circles, turning it into a social staple.
Whether true or not, her connection to the cocktail illustrates the way it was embraced by the elite as a symbol of defiance during a time of strict regulations.
Ingredients and Preparations
When we prepare a Bee’s Knees cocktail, every ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors. From selecting the right gin to crafting a smooth honey syrup, attention to detail is key.
Let’s explore what goes into this delightful drink.
Choosing the Right Gin
Selecting the right gin is crucial for the Bee’s Knees cocktail. A dry gin is recommended for its sharpness and complexity. Look for options that have a strong juniper presence and botanical notes.
For a twist, we can experiment with different gins.
For instance, floral gins or those with hints of lavender can add unique flavors that complement the honey and lemon.
Always strive for quality, as it significantly impacts the overall taste.
The Importance of Fresh Citrus
Fresh lemon juice is a must in our cocktails. It adds brightness and a refreshing tartness that balances the sweetness of the honey syrup.
We should avoid bottled lemon juice, as it can lack the vibrant flavor of fresh juice.
Simply squeeze one or two lemons to ensure we have the freshest taste.
The ideal amount is around 0.75 ounces per cocktail, which gives us that perfect zing without overpowering the other ingredients.
Creating the Perfect Honey Syrup
Making honey syrup is straightforward and enhances our Bee’s Knees cocktail. We combine equal parts honey and hot water, stirring until dissolved.
This creates a sweet, smooth syrup that blends seamlessly with our other ingredients.
For an interesting twist, consider using lavender honey syrup. It adds an aromatic touch that elevates the drink.
Let the syrup cool and store it in the fridge, ready for our next cocktail adventure.
Assembling and Garnishing
Assembling our cocktail is the fun part.
In a cocktail shaker, we combine 2 ounces of gin, 0.75 ounces of fresh lemon juice, and 0.75 ounces of honey syrup.
We add ice cubes and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to chill the mixture thoroughly.
After straining into a chilled cocktail glass, we can elevate our drink even more with a garnish.
A lemon twist adds a pop of color and a hint of citrus aroma, making our Bee’s Knees not only delicious but visually appealing too.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
The Bee’s Knees cocktail is a classic that allows for fun variations and creative serving options. We can mix things up with different ingredients and styles, making each drink unique and enjoyable.
Here are some popular twists on this refreshing cocktail and suggestions on how to serve it.
Contemporary Twists
To modernize the traditional Bee’s Knees, we can incorporate contemporary ingredients.
Adding lavender honey gives a floral note that enhances the overall flavor, while elderflower liqueur can provide a sweet and aromatic element.
We can even substitute the gin for vodka or mezcal to give the drink a different character.
A vodka Bee’s Knees offers a clean finish, while mezcal adds a smoky depth.
For those who like a little citrus punch, we can include fresh fruit juices like grapefruit or orange.
This not only brightens the flavor but also makes it visually appealing with vibrant colors.
Alternative Spirits
Exploring alternative spirits opens up exciting new possibilities for our Bee’s Knees cocktail.
For a gin-free option, we can use vodka, which still gives a crispness but with less botanical flavor.
Another interesting alternative is mezcal. Its smoky profile creates a unique twist that complements the honey and lemon.
If we’re feeling adventurous, we might try a gimlet-style Bee’s Knees using fresh lime juice instead of lemon. This gives the drink a tangier taste that’s perfect for warm weather.
Serving Vessels
Presentation matters, and the right serving vessel can enhance our drinking experience.
Using a chilled coupe glass is ideal for a classic look. It keeps the drink cool and allows us to savor every sip.
A regular cocktail glass can also work, especially if we’re serving a larger batch.
For a bit of fun, we might even consider unique glasses like vintage teacups. This adds a whimsical touch to any gathering and makes the drink feel special.
Nutrition and Enjoyment
When enjoying a Bee’s Knees cocktail, we often think about its refreshing taste and how it fits into our lifestyle. Understanding its nutritional aspects can help us appreciate it even more as a delightful drink, especially during happy hour or at a gathering.
Caloric Consideration
A classic Bee’s Knees cocktail typically contains around 203 calories per serving. This includes calories from the gin, honey syrup, and fresh lemon juice.
To make a homemade honey syrup, we mix equal parts honey and water, which can be lower in calories than pre-made options.
For those watching their calorie intake, simply adjusting the amount of honey syrup can help.
We can also enjoy the cocktail over ice for a refreshing experience, allowing us to savor each sip while keeping the calories manageable.
Moderation and Enjoyment
As with any alcoholic beverage, moderation is key. The Bee’s Knees contains alcohol, which adds to its caloric content.
Enjoying it in moderation allows us to appreciate its flavors without overindulging.
Choosing to savor a cocktail during a social event or a relaxing evening can enhance our experience.
We can mix up our gatherings by exploring different variations of the Bee’s Knees. This keeps our drink selections exciting while maintaining a focus on enjoyment and responsible drinking practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
When it comes to the Bee’s Knees cocktail, we have many questions about its ingredients, variations, and history. This classic drink offers a delightful mix of flavors that captivate many. Here, we address some common inquiries that help us enjoy this refreshing beverage even more.
What are the classic ingredients in a Bee’s Knees cocktail?
The classic Bee’s Knees cocktail consists of three main ingredients: gin, honey syrup, and lemon juice. The gin provides a strong base, while honey syrup adds sweetness, balancing the tartness of the lemon juice.
Can you suggest some variations to the traditional Bees Knees cocktails recipes?
Absolutely! We can experiment with different types of citrus, like grapefruit or orange juice, for a unique twist. Adding herbs such as basil or thyme can also create interesting flavor profiles.
How does one make simple Bees Knees cocktails at home?
Making Bees Knees cocktails at home is easy. We combine 2 oz of gin, 0.75 oz of honey syrup, and 0.75 oz of lemon juice in a shaker with ice. We shake well and strain it into a chilled glass.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Bees Knees cocktails?
Yes, we can create a non-alcoholic version by replacing gin with tonic water or a non-alcoholic gin alternative. We still mix in honey syrup and lemon juice for that signature taste.
What are the best types of gin to use in a Bees Knees cocktails?
Recommended gins include London Dry and Old Tom gin. London Dry has a crisp flavor, while Old Tom gin is known for its sweetness. Both options work well with the honey and lemon.
What is the origin and history of the Bees Knees cocktails?
The Bees Knees cocktails date back to the Prohibition era. It was created to mask the harsh taste of bathtub gin. This was done by using sweet ingredients like honey and lemon. The name refers to something outstanding, highlighting its appeal.
