Perfect for the holiday season, these Pear Moscow Mules are bright, refreshing, and bursting with fresh pear flavor!
The holidays might look a little different this year, but that doesn’t mean we can’t stay connected with loved ones near and far. To help make the season a little brighter, I’ve partnered with my friends at Harry & David to share a few easy ways to celebrate the season virtually.
You may recall I first introduced you to Harry and David earlier this year when I created this fruity Almond Flour Peach Muffin recipe. Additionally, we featured Harry and David on the podcast to talk about fostering online communities. Be sure to check out that episode if you haven’t yet!
Now that the holiday season is in full force, I’m always on the lookout for fun gifts that can be ordered online and shipped across the country.
With fantastic deliverable box sets such as this Artisan Meat, Cheese and Wine Gift, Wooden Lantern Gift, and Pear Cocktail Gift Set, Harry & David make it easy to show your loved ones you care – even when you’re miles apart.
Tips for Planning Virtual Holiday Party
Recently, I hosted a Virtual Secret Santa party with a few of my college besties who live in Boston. You won’t believe how fun and EASY it is to host a virtual party.
About one month before the virtual gathering, everyone participating should select gift baskets for one another by using Harry & David’s convenient holiday gift guide. Whether you need a gift for a foodie in your life, a wine lover, or a coworker, Harry & David has something for literally everyone on your list.
Of course, what kind of party would it be without cocktails? Using the different baskets’ ingredients as inspiration, I decided to create a simple and refreshing Pear Moscow Mule cocktail recipe.
To start, prepare the pear simple syrup made with Harry & David’s Royal Riviera® Pears. The sweetest pears you’ll find anywhere, I love using them to infuse the simple syrup.
Pro Tip: I urge you to make a little extra pear simple syrup. It can be used in anything from iced tea, to oatmeal, and even pancakes.
Then, when you’re ready to prepare the cocktail, mix the first five ingredients (vodka or gin through ginger beer) in a pitcher. Next, fill four glasses with ice and fill them 3/4 of the way full with the drink mixture. Finally, top each glass with a splash of club soda and garnish with pomegranate seeds before serving.
The sweet and tangy flavors of this cocktail perfectly compliment the delicious appetizers from Harry & David.
Whether you’re celebrating in person or virtually, these gifts are sure to please – just don’t forget to share this recipe so everyone can enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can other fruits be used?
Absolutely! While this cocktail recipe calls for pears specifically, it would be great with any other fruit you prefer such as apples or peaches. Fresh ginger works great too for a little added kick.
Does it matter what type of sugar I use?
To make these cocktails, I used standard granulated sugar. I would not advise using baking sugars such as brown sugar or confectioner. However, if you wish to use Stevia or another sugar-alternative, feel free to do so. Just be aware of the difference in sweetness from one variety to another!
Where do I find pomegranate seeds?
In the fall and winter, pomegranates can typically be found in most standard grocery stores. In order to get the seeds, simply cut the pomegranates in half. Then, hold one half upside down over a bowl and hit it with a spoon until all the seeds fall out. Or, you can often find ready-to-eat seeds in the refrigerated section.
How far in advance can I prepare this cocktail?
You can prepare the simple syrup up to 72 hours in advance. I would suggest waiting to mix together all of the cocktail ingredients until you’re ready to serve so that the ginger beer doesn’t lose its effervescence.
What’s your favorite holiday cocktail recipe? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below. Cheers!
Pear Moscow Mules
Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 ounces vodka or gin
- 1 cup pear simple syrup
- ½ cup lime juice
- 8 ounces ginger beer
- 4 ounces club soda
- ½ cup pomegranate seeds (optional garnish)
Pear Simple Syrup
- 2 Harry & David Royal Riviera® Pears (cored and sliced)
- 1 cup water
- ⅓ cup sugar
Instructions
- Start by preparing the pear simple syrup: place all ingredients in a small saucepot and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and gently stir to dissolve the sugar. Let cool completely before straining the pear. Chill in refrigerator until you're ready to use.
- When you're ready to prepare the cocktail. mix the first five ingredients (vodka or gin through ginger beer) in a pitcher. Fill four glasses with ice and fill 3/4 way full with mixture. Top each glass with a splash of club soda and garnish with pomegranate seeds before serving.
