The Pineapple Hot Honey Bee’s Knees is a bold, sweet-and-spicy twist on the classic. It blends fresh pineapple chunks with gin, hot honey syrup, and lemon juice for a cocktail that’s juicy, citrusy, and packs a little heat. The pineapple adds tropical sweetness, the lemon keeps it bright, and the hot honey brings a warm kick that lingers just enough. It’s a fun mix of fresh and fiery, great for summer nights or when you want something with a little edge. Shake it well, serve it chilled, and garnish with a pineapple wedge or chili slice for extra flair.

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Tasting Notes

The Pineapple Hot Honey Bee’s Knees is a bold, tropical twist on the classic Prohibition-era cocktail. Juicy pineapple adds bright, sweet depth, while fresh lemon juice keeps it vibrant and zesty. The hot honey syrup brings a subtle kick of heat, perfectly balanced by the botanical complexity of gin. The result is a silky, sweet-and-spicy cocktail that’s layered, refreshing, and just adventurous enough to surprise your palate. With a citrusy aroma and tropical garnish, it’s a standout sipper with serious flair.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a shaker for blending and chilling, a muddler for breaking down the pineapple, and a fine mesh strainer for a smooth pour. A jigger ensures accurate measuring. Serve in a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass for a classic presentation. A paring knife and garnish pick will help prep and place the lemon twist and pineapple wedge with finesse.

Ingredients

Handful of fresh pineapple chunks
2 oz gin
0.5 oz lemon juice
1 oz hot honey syrup
Lemon peel and pineapple wedge (for garnish)

Instructions

Muddle the Pineapple: In a shaker, muddle fresh pineapple until juicy.
Add the Rest: Add gin, lemon juice, and hot honey syrup.
Shake: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
Double Strain: Strain through a fine mesh strainer into a chilled coupe glass.
Garnish: Twist a lemon peel over the drink to release oils, then garnish with the peel and a pineapple wedge.

Pro Tips

Want even more spice? Add a few drops of chili tincture or muddle a slice of jalapeño with the pineapple.
Make your own hot honey syrup by mixing 2 parts honey, 1 part hot water, and a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne.
For extra depth, try using a floral or citrus-forward gin like The Botanist or Empress 1908.
Chill your glass in advance to keep the cocktail cold longer without dilution.

When to Serve

This Pineapple Hot Honey Bee’s Knees is a standout choice for warm-weather evenings, craft cocktail nights, or anytime you’re looking to serve something with a creative twist. Its balanced blend of bold flavors makes it a great conversation starter, whether you’re hosting a relaxed brunch, an elegant dinner party, or a themed gathering with tropical or modern flair. With its eye-catching presentation and vibrant taste, it works beautifully as a signature drink—bringing both style and substance to any occasion. Refreshing, unique, and full of character, it’s sure to leave a lasting impression on guests and become a favorite in your cocktail rotation.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Pineapple: Use ripe, fresh pineapple for bold flavor and natural sweetness
Gin: Empress 1908, The Botanist, or Bombay Sapphire for herbal balance
Honey: Mike’s Hot Honey or homemade hot honey syrup
Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed for the best flavor and brightness

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