As the days are growing shorter and the air is turning crisper, there’s no denying that Autumn is here.  With it comes pear season, and what better way to use up those leftover pears than in a cocktail.

This pear cocktail is perfect for a cozy night in, a dinner party with friends, or even as a signature cocktail for your wedding.  It’s a refreshing and light mix of pear, gin, and prosecco, elevated by the rich flavour of homemade pear puree.

This cocktail is not only a celebration of the season but also the versatility of pears. The combination of gin and prosecco adds a sophisticated touch, while the homemade pear puree brings a natural sweetness and depth of flavour.

Inspired by the French 75, this simple fizzy gin cocktail is really easy to make.  This cocktail can be made in batches and served in a pitcher, or as individual servings.

pear prosecco cocktail in champagne flute garnished with pear slice

This recipe makes 2 servings, to make it you’ll need:

  • ¼ cup chopped pear (1 large pear)
  • ⅙ cup cold water
  • ½ tablespoons lemon juice
  • ¼ teaspoon thyme leaves
  • 60 mls gin
  • 30 mls simple syrup*
  • ¼ bottle sparkling wine (750 ml)

Method:

  • Blend the chopped pear, thyme, lemon juice and water together.  Strain through a fine-mesh sieve. Chill until ready to serve.
  • Combine 60 mls of pear puree, the gin, and the simple syrup in a cocktail shaker.
  • Fill with ice and shake vigorously.
  • Strain into two chilled champagne flutes and evenly top the glasses with prosecco.
  • Garnish with a pear slice.

*To make simple syrup:

  • Add equal parts sugar and water (e.g one cup sugar, one cup water) to a small saucepan over a low heat for about 10 minutes
  • Gently stir the mixture until it dissolves and forms a slightly runny syrup that’s about half the original volume.
  • Once the syrup is ready, let it cool before adding to your cocktail mixture. If you’re making a large batch, strain it into a jar and seal the lid tightly. Pop it in the fridge, it will keep for about a month.

Top Tips

  • You only need 1 large ripe pair for the puree.  No need to peel, keep the skin on for a hint of colour in the cocktail.
  • Choose your favourite gin, experiment to find what you like best.
  • A splash of prosecco, Cava, or champagne will make this cocktail fizzy and bubbly.  Use sparkling water instead if you’d prefer not to use sparkling wine.

Recipe & Image:  Courtesy of Cup of Zest