This spiced orange gin and tonic is the perfect cocktail for the holiday season — bright, spiced, and icy cold. Refreshing and festive, it’s a delicious choice for gatherings.
A perfect holiday-season cocktail, ready in minutes.
Icy and citrus-forward, this cocktail combines a spiced orange syrup with botanical gin and tonic water over plenty of ice. It’s the kind of drink that feels right during cold-weather celebrations, gift wrapping sessions or holiday meals.
At this time of year I’m drawn to anything orange and spiced. I may not always choose chocolate-orange combinations, but spiced orange cocktails win me over every time. The warmth of star anise and cardamom paired with fresh citrus is irresistible when chilled and mixed with tonic.
Spiced orange syrup is the star here. When combined with gin and crisp tonic water, it makes a cocktail that’s both festive and sophisticated.
I’ve previously shared spiced orange spritzers, which are lovely for Thanksgiving morning or the day after. This gin and tonic version is a bit more grown-up — no sparkling wine, just gin, tonic and that fragrant syrup. Finish with a sprig of rosemary for an aromatic, festive touch.
Simple, bright, and customizable, this cocktail is easy to make ahead and scale for a crowd.
How to make spiced orange gin and tonic perfection:
- The spiced orange syrup is made with orange peel, sugar, water, star anise and crushed cardamom pods. Simmer briefly to extract flavor, then cool. The syrup stores in the fridge for about a week and develops extra depth if left with the peel and spices.
- Use a gin you enjoy — Hendrick’s is a great choice for its floral botanicals, but any favorite gin will work.
- Choose a quality tonic water. A good tonic makes a noticeable difference in the final drink.
- Garnish with a fresh orange wedge, star anise or a rosemary sprig for aroma and presentation.
- Adjust the syrup to taste and enjoy responsibly.
Spiced Orange Gin and Tonic
Spiced Orange Gin and Tonic
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Ingredients
Spiced Orange Syrup
- Peel from 1 orange
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup water
- 2 star anise
- 1 teaspoon whole cardamom pods, crushed
Gin and Tonic
- 1 to 2 ounces spiced orange syrup
- 2 ounces gin
- 4 ounces tonic water
- Fresh orange wedge, for a spritz
- Rosemary sprigs for garnish
Instructions
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Spiced orange syrup
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Combine the orange peel, sugar, water, star anise and crushed cardamom in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk until the sugar dissolves, bring to a simmer, then remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. For a stronger flavor, leave the peel and spices in the syrup as it chills. Store refrigerated for up to a week.
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Gin and tonic
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Fill a glass with ice. Add 1–2 ounces spiced orange syrup and 2 ounces gin, then top with about 4 ounces tonic water. Stir gently to combine. Garnish with a fresh orange wedge and a rosemary sprig. Adjust syrup to taste and serve immediately.
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