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Crafted with vodka, brandy, pear simple syrup, and zesty lemon juice, this pear martini is a simple and refreshing cocktail.
When it comes to cocktails, martinis are my go-to - from a passion fruit martini to a raspberry martini to a blood orange martini.
Not only do they just look fancy, they are a great way for infusing fruit flavors and this pear martini is no different.
Why This Recipe Works
- Versatile - The use of vodka and brandy as base spirits allows for a well-rounded and adaptable cocktail that can be customized to suit different preferences.
- Refreshing elegance - The martini's clean and crisp profile makes it a refreshing choice for those seeking a sophisticated and palate-cleansing drink.
- Seasonal appeal - Pear martinis can be enjoyed year-round, but they shine particularly in the fall, when pears are at their peak ripeness, adding a seasonal touch to your cocktail menu.
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Ingredient Notes
- Vodka - Choose a high-quality vodka that is smooth and neutral in flavor. The vodka provides the base spirit, so its quality is crucial.
- Brandy: -Opt for a good-quality brandy that complements the pear flavors. A VS or VSOP Cognac or a pear-infused brandy can add depth to the cocktail.
- Pear simple syrup - Make your own pear simple syrup by simmering water, maple syrup, pears and cinnamon. This adds sweetness and intensifies the pear flavor.
- Lemon juice - Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for a bright and zesty citrus kick. Pre-packaged lemon juice can lack freshness and flavor.
Ingredient Swaps
As with any recipe, you can mix up the ingredients if you want. Some variations include:
- Swap vodka for gin to create a pear and gin martini, which will have a different botanical flavor profile. Try white rum for a pear and rum martini for a tropical twist.
- Speaking of vodka, you could try pear vodka for even more flavor.
- Instead of brandy, try whiskey. It has a strong, complex flavor with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak which would complement the pear flavor.
- I use maple syrup for the sweetness in the simple syrup but granulated sugar or honey also work great.
- You can try lime juice instead of lemon juice for a tangier twist on the classic martini.
Step-by-Step Photos
Please note full ingredient list and instructions can be found in recipe card below.
Making the simple syrup by adding all of the ingredients and simmering for 25 minutes. Let it cool before using.
To prepare the martini, add all of the martini ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice and shake for 20 seconds before straining in a glass.
FAQs
Bartlett and Anjou pears are commonly used for pear martinis due to their sweet and juicy qualities.
Simple syrup is usually one part sugar/sweetener and one part water which is heated to allow the sugar to dissolve.
I think maple syrup pears well with pears which is why I use it in the simple syrup instead of sugar.
I personally like using a coupe glass, but a v-shaped martini glass works as well.
While it's best to serve fresh, you can prepare the base mixture (excluding ice) in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
Shake the mixture with ice just before serving to ensure the ideal texture and temperature.
Pro Tips/Recipe Notes
- Use pear vodka if you want even more pear flavor.
- Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for a bright and zesty citrus kick. It adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the pears.
- Place the martini glass in the freezer for an hour so it keeps your martini chilled.
- Garnishes like a thin pear slice, lemon twist, or a cinnamon stick can enhance both the visual appeal and flavor of your martini.
Other Cocktails
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Pear Martini
Ingredients
Pear Simple Syrup
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup maple syrup
- 1 pear, diced into ½" pieces
- 1 cinnamon stick
Martini
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz brandy
- 1 oz pear simple syrup
- ½ oz lemon juice
- pear slice for garnish
Instructions
Pear Simple Syrup
- In a small saucepan, combine the water, maple syrup, diced pear and cinnamon stick and bring to a soft boil. Reduce to simmer for 25 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit for 15 minutes.
- Strain the syrup into a glass measuring cup, discarding the cinnamon stick but keeping the diced pears. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Martini
- Combine vodka, brandy, pear simple syrup and lemon juice in a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Shake for 20 seconds and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a pear slice.
Notes
- Use pear vodka if you want even more pear flavor.
- Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for a bright and zesty citrus kick. It adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the pears.
- Place the martini glass in the freezer for an hour so it keeps your martini chilled.
- Garnishes like a thin pear slice, lemon twist, or a cinnamon stick can enhance both the visual appeal and flavor of your martini.
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