A Bee’s Knees is one of those cocktails that’s simple, elegant, and downright delicious. It’s bright, citrusy, and perfectly sweet, thanks to a touch of honey. Originally created during Prohibition to mask the rough edges of homemade gin, it’s now a beloved classic that’s just as refreshing today as it was back then.
Bee's Knees
This is my go-to cocktail for warm evenings—it’s light, smooth, and always a crowd-pleaser. Let’s mix one up!
What You’ll Need
Servings: 1 cocktail
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 oz (60ml) gin
- 3/4 oz (22ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz (15ml) honey syrup (see below for how to make it)
- Ice
- Lemon twist, for garnish
Equipment:
- Cocktail shaker
- Strainer
- Coupe or martini glass
How to Make It
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in gin, fresh lemon juice, and honey syrup.
- Shake for about 15 seconds, until the shaker feels cold in your hands.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist—give it a little twist over the drink to release its oils before dropping it in.
That’s it! Simple, bright, and delicious.
How to Make Honey Syrup
Honey syrup is just honey thinned with water so it blends smoothly into your drink. Here’s how to make it:
Quick Method:
Mix equal parts honey and warm water (like 1/2 cup each). Stir until fully dissolved.
Make-Ahead Tip:
Store in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Tips for the Best Bee’s Knees
- Use fresh lemon juice—bottled won’t give you that same bright, fresh flavor.
- Chill your glass ahead of time for an extra-refreshing sip.
- Experiment with different honeys—wildflower honey adds floral notes, while orange blossom honey brings a citrusy kick.
I’ve made this drink countless times, and one thing I’ve learned is that shaking it really well makes all the difference. The ice chills it down fast and gives it that smooth, crisp finish.
Variations to Try
Want to switch things up? Here are a few fun twists on the classic:
Thyme Bee’s Knees
- Add a sprig of fresh thyme to the shaker before shaking.
- It adds a subtle herbal note that pairs beautifully with the honey.
Lavender Bee’s Knees
- Infuse the honey syrup with dried lavender for a delicate floral touch.
- Just heat the honey and water together, add lavender, steep for 10 minutes, then strain.
Spiced Bee’s Knees
- Swap regular honey for ginger or cinnamon-infused honey syrup.
- A cozy twist that’s perfect for fall and winter.
Virgin Bee’s Knees (Non-Alcoholic)
- Replace gin with sparkling water or non-alcoholic gin.
- Still refreshing, still delicious!
What to Serve with a Bee’s Knees
This cocktail pairs beautifully with light, fresh flavors. Try it with:
- Spicy Asian dishes—the honey balances the heat.
- Grilled seafood—the citrus notes complement fish and shrimp.
- Crisp salads—especially with a lemony vinaigrette.
I love sipping this alongside a plate of grilled shrimp—it’s the perfect summer combo.
Common Questions
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
You could, but fresh lemon juice makes a huge difference. The flavor is brighter, fresher, and just better.
What’s the best gin for a Bee’s Knees?
A London Dry Gin works great, but you can experiment! Floral gins add a soft, botanical touch, while citrusy gins bring out the lemon even more.
Can I batch this for a party?
Absolutely! Just mix everything ahead of time (without ice) and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, shake individual portions with ice and strain.
What’s a good vegan substitute for honey?
Agave syrup works well—it’s slightly lighter in flavor but keeps the same balance of sweetness.
A Bee’s Knees is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. Whether you stick to the classic or try a fun twist, this cocktail is always a winner. Cheers! 🍸
