Name: Bourbon Pear Spritzers: Your New Favorite Fall Cocktail
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Water (Serves as the base for your syrup); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Essential for sweetness); 1 cup Frozen Ginger Cubes (Can be substituted with fresh ginger); 4 leaves Fresh Sage Leaves (Adds herbal note); 2 ounces Bourbon (Key spirit that adds warmth); 4 ounces Fresh Pear Juice (Fresh juice for best flavor); 4 ounces Ginger Ale (Adds bubbles and sweetness); 2 slices Pear Slices (Enhances aesthetics and flavor); 1 sprig Fresh Sage Sprigs (Adds color and aroma)

As I crafted the perfect drink for autumn gatherings, the golden hues of fall and the cozy scent of spices enveloped me. These Thanksgiving Bourbon Pear Spritzers are my go-to cocktail to welcome friends and family with open arms. With lush, fresh pear juice mingling with a zesty homemade ginger sage simple syrup, you’re not only serving up a tasty delight but also creating moments filled with warmth and laughter. This festive drink is quick to make, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—connecting with your loved ones. Plus, it offers a non-alcoholic option for those who prefer a lighter touch. Ready to impress your guests with this seasonal masterpiece? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Are Bourbon Pear Spritzers So Irresistible?

Refreshing, Seasonal Flair: Each sip of these spritzers embodies the essence of fall with vibrant pear and spice, perfect for cozy gatherings.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have an impressive cocktail that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Customizable Delight: Whether you prefer the traditional version or want to try a non-alcoholic option, this recipe adapts to any palate, ensuring everyone feels included.
Aesthetic Appeal: Garnished with fresh pear slices and sage, these drinks are not just delicious but also visually stunning, making them a great addition to any holiday table.
Total Crowd-Pleaser: This festive favorite is sure to impress guests, sparking conversations and creating a warm atmosphere that’s ideal for celebrating with loved ones.

Bourbon Pear Spritzers Ingredients

For the Ginger Sage Simple Syrup
Water – Serves as the base for your syrup, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully.
Sugar – Essential for sweetness; use granulated sugar for the best results.
Frozen Ginger Cubes – Convenient and long-lasting; can be substituted with fresh ginger for a more potent flavor.
Fresh Sage Leaves – Adds a refreshing herbal note; crucial for that aromatic depth.
For the Spritzer
Bourbon – 2 ounces; the key spirit that adds warmth; adjust to taste or omit for a non-alcoholic option.
Fresh Pear Juice – 4 ounces; fresh juice brings the best flavor, but store-bought also works nicely.
Ginger Ale – 4 ounces; introduces bubbles and sweetness; choose your favorite brand for personal flair.
For Garnish
Pear Slices – Enhances both the drink’s aesthetics and introspective flavor; fresh is always best.
Fresh Sage Sprigs – Adds color and aroma, elevating the overall presentation of your bourbon pear spritzers.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thanksgiving Bourbon Pear Spritzers

Step 1: Prepare the Ginger Sage Simple Syrup
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar fully dissolves, which should take about 5 minutes. Add your frozen ginger cubes and fresh sage leaves, then remove the pan from heat. Allow the mixture to sit for 5-10 minutes so the flavors can blend beautifully.

Step 2: Strain the Syrup
Using a fine mesh sieve, strain the infused syrup into a jar, discarding the solids for a smooth finish. Let the syrup cool completely at room temperature; this will ensure it mixes well later and retains its delicious flavors. Keep your ginger sage syrup handy, as it will be the star of your Thanksgiving bourbon pear spritzers.

Step 3: Mix the Spritzer
To create your Thanksgiving bourbon pear spritzer, fill a tall glass with ice. Pour in 2 ounces of bourbon, followed by 4 ounces of fresh pear juice and another 4 ounces of ginger ale, which adds a delightful fizziness. Add about 1 tablespoon of the prepared ginger sage syrup and stir gently to harmonize all the flavors.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Finally, enhance your drink’s presentation by garnishing it with fresh pear slices and a sprig of sage. These vibrant garnishes not only look beautiful but also elevate the aroma and taste of your Thanksgiving bourbon pear spritzers. Serve immediately to enjoy the refreshing essence of fall with family and friends.

What to Serve with Thanksgiving Bourbon Pear Spritzers?

Imagining the perfect gathering, let’s explore delightful pairings that elevate your Thanksgiving bourbon pear spritzers into a full autumn feast.

Savory Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses enhances the drink’s fruity notes, creating a sophisticated and shared experience.
Spiced Nuts: Roasted and spiced nuts provide a crunchy contrast, intertwining with the spritzer’s warm ginger flavors and complementing any sweet notes.
Bruschetta with Pear and Goat Cheese: The creamy tang of goat cheese paired with sweet pears on toasted bread embraces the cocktail’s essence wonderfully. This pairing will have guests savoring every bite and sip.
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness from the fries mirrors the pear, while the crispy texture adds a fun crunch, enhancing every refreshing sip.
Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts: These savory bites enrich the autumnal theme, harmonizing perfectly with the bourbon notes and creating a comforting, homey vibe.
Pomegranate Salad: The fresh hints of pomegranate arils bring brightness to the meal, providing a contrast that beautifully mingles with the cocktail’s flavors, making your guests smile with every taste.
Pumpkin Spice Muffins: Treat your guests to a sweet finish with pumpkin muffins that resonate with the seasonal theme, ensuring a cozy end to this festive gathering.
Apple Cider Cocktails: Enhance the drink experience with a spiced apple cider cocktail, echoing the flavors in the bourbon pear spritzers while introducing a new festive twist.

Expert Tips for Bourbon Pear Spritzers

Fresh Juice Matters: Use freshly squeezed pear juice for maximum taste. Store-bought juice lacks the vibrant flavor that makes bourbon pear spritzers truly shine.
Syrup Cooling: Be sure to let your ginger sage syrup cool completely before mixing it into your spritzers. This prevents ice from melting too quickly and diluting your drink.
Ice Choices: Opt for large ice cubes instead of small ones. They melt slower, maintaining the drink’s flavor and preventing your bourbon pear spritzers from becoming watered down.
Herb Preparation: Lightly bruise your sage leaves before adding them as garnish. This releases essential oils, enhancing the aromatic experience with every sip.
Storage Savvy: Store any leftover ginger sage syrup in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to two weeks. Perfect for making more bourbon pear spritzers on a whim!

Make Ahead Options

These Thanksgiving Bourbon Pear Spritzers are a fantastic choice for meal prep, ensuring you can enjoy more time with your guests! You can prepare the ginger sage simple syrup up to 3 days in advance; just store it in a sealed jar in the refrigerator to keep the flavors fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply mix your bourbon, fresh pear juice, and ginger ale with the chilled syrup and stir gently. For optimal quality, add your fresh garnishes—pear slices and sage—just before serving to maintain their vibrant appearance. This way, you can whip up impressive cocktails in no time, allowing you to focus on making cherished memories with loved ones!

Bourbon Pear Spritzers: Flavorful Twists Await

Feel free to explore and personalize these delightful spritzers to fit your taste preferences and dietary needs!

Non-Alcoholic Option: Substitute bourbon with club soda or sparkling water for a refreshing mocktail alternative. This allows everyone to enjoy the festive flavors without the alcohol.
Herbal Zing: Replace fresh sage with fresh thyme for a unique and vibrant twist. Thyme offers a fresh, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with pear.
Spiced Touch: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the ginger sage syrup for a cozy and warm infusion. This little enhancement brings a wonderful autumnal essence to your drink.
Citrus Burst: Squeeze in fresh lemon or orange juice to brighten up the flavors. The citrus notes create a delightful contrast with the sweetness of the pear.
Fruity Fusion: Enhance your spritzer by incorporating a splash of cranberry or pomegranate juice, which adds a lovely sweetness and a pop of color.
Ginger Heat: For those who love a spicy kick, include sliced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper in the syrup. This adds a surprising twist that will delight adventurous palates.
Add Bubbles: Experiment by replacing ginger ale with sparkling apple cider for an extra layer of seasonal flavor. This bubbly alternative creates a deliciously festive drink that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
Vegan-Friendly: Simply use agave syrup or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar in the ginger sage syrup for a vegan twist that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

These variations ensure that your Thanksgiving Bourbon Pear Spritzers are not only seasonally delicious but also flexible enough to cater to every palate. Enjoy creating cherished memories with loved ones over these festive drinks!

How to Store and Freeze Bourbon Pear Spritzers

Fridge: Store any leftover ginger sage syrup in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This makes it easy to whip up more bourbon pear spritzers anytime!

Freezer: You can freeze the ginger sage syrup in ice cube trays for up to three months. Once solid, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag for easy use in future cocktails.

Reheating: If using frozen syrup cubes, simply let them sit at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds until they’re thawed and ready to mix into your spritzers.

Thanksgiving Bourbon Pear Spritzers Recipe FAQs

What type of pears are best for making pear juice?
Absolutely! I recommend using ripe, juicy pears such as Bartlett or Bosc. Look for pears that yield slightly to gentle pressure and have a subtly sweet aroma. Avoid any with dark spots all over, indicating overripeness. Freshly juiced pears will elevate the flavors of your bourbon pear spritzers magnificently.

How long can I store the ginger sage simple syrup?
You can store leftover ginger sage syrup in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Ensure that you allow it to cool completely before sealing. It’s best to check for any signs of fermentation, like bubbling or an off smell, before using.

Can I freeze leftover ginger sage syrup?
Very! To freeze the syrup, pour it into ice cube trays and freeze until solid, which usually takes about 2-3 hours. Once frozen, transfer the cubes into a freezer bag for easy access later. They’ll keep for up to three months!

What should I do if my spritzer turns out too sweet?
If you find your bourbon pear spritzer too sweet, try balancing it with a squirt of fresh lemon juice or a splash of club soda to cut through the sweetness. Taste as you go, adjusting until it’s just right for you. The more the merrier when it comes to flavor balance!

Is there a non-alcoholic option for this recipe?
Absolutely! For a non-alcoholic version of the bourbon pear spritzers, simply replace the bourbon with club soda or sparkling water. You can also enhance the flavor by adding a splash of cranberry or pomegranate juice for a fruity twist that everyone can enjoy.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh sage?
While fresh sage is always preferred for its aromatic qualities, you can use dried sage if fresh isn’t available. Use about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs tend to be more concentrated. Just remember that fresh herbs bring a beautiful touch to your bourbon pear spritzers!