The Honey Bee cocktail is a sweet, zesty classic that’s as simple to make as it is satisfying to sip. Perfect for sunny afternoons or relaxed evenings, it’s a delightful blend of honey, rum, and lemon juice that feels like summer in a glass. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it never fails to impress. Let me walk you through how to make it just right, along with a few tips and twists to make it your own.
Honey Bee
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for one Honey Bee cocktail:
- 2 oz (60 ml) white rum
- 1 oz (30 ml) honey syrup (see tip below for how to make it)
- 1/2 oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
Optional Garnish:
- Lemon twist or a small piece of honeycomb
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
To Make Honey Syrup: Combine equal parts honey and warm water (e.g., 1/2 cup each) and stir until the honey dissolves. Store leftover syrup in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Method
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the rum, honey syrup, and fresh lemon juice.
- Add ice to the shaker, then shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds until the mixture is well chilled. (Don’t skimp on the shake—it’s key to getting everything perfectly blended!)
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. For an elegant touch, you could also serve it in a coupe glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or a small piece of honeycomb for a playful, sweet accent.
Tips & Tricks
- Pick the right honey: A high-quality, local honey can elevate this drink’s flavor. Clover honey gives a light sweetness, while buckwheat honey adds a richer, more robust taste.
- Balance is everything: If it’s too sweet for your taste, add a splash more lemon juice. If it’s too tart, a drizzle more honey syrup will fix it.
- Shake it well: Shaking not only chills the drink but also helps mix the honey syrup evenly with the other ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
The Honey Bee pairs wonderfully with light snacks and appetizers. Here are a few ideas:
- Spicy bites: Think jalapeño poppers or spicy shrimp skewers. The drink’s sweetness balances out the heat.
- Charcuterie board: The honey and lemon notes cut through rich cheeses and cured meats beautifully.
- Grilled veggies: Smoky, charred vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers complement the cocktail’s bright flavors.
Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic, here are some fun ways to change it up:
Spiced Honey Bee
- Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the honey syrup for warm, cozy vibes.
Honey Bee Fizz
- Top the finished cocktail with a splash of club soda for a light, bubbly twist.
Berry Honey Bee
- Muddle a handful of fresh berries (like raspberries or blackberries) at the bottom of the glass before adding the cocktail for a fruity infusion.
Virgin Honey Bee
- Skip the rum and use sparkling water or ginger ale instead for a refreshing non-alcoholic version.
Common Questions
What’s the best honey to use?
Go for a high-quality, local honey. The flavor will shine through, and different varieties (like orange blossom or wildflower honey) can add unique notes.
Can I batch-make this for a party?
Definitely! Multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need and mix everything in a large pitcher. Chill in the fridge, then shake individual servings with ice before pouring.
How do I make it less sweet?
Use less honey syrup or add a little more lemon juice. The key is finding the balance that works for you.
Can vegans enjoy this cocktail?
Traditional Honey Bees use honey, but you can swap it for agave nectar for a vegan-friendly version.
Make-Ahead & Storage
If you’re hosting, you can prep the honey syrup and even pre-juice your lemons a few hours ahead to save time. Store the syrup in the fridge and the juice in a sealed container to keep it fresh. Once mixed, the cocktail is best enjoyed immediately, but the syrup will keep for up to two weeks if stored properly.
Final Thoughts
The Honey Bee is a cocktail that’s both simple and versatile. It’s a drink I often turn to for its easy charm and perfectly balanced flavor. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with a variation, it’s sure to be a hit. So grab your shaker and give it a try—you just might find a new favorite!
