Name: Lemon Ginger Gimlets
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Gin; Fresh lemon juice; Ginger syrup (homemade or store-bought); Ice cubes; Lemon peel or candied ginger (optional, for garnish)

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Lemon ginger gimlets are refreshing, zesty, and just the right mix of sweet, tart, and bold. It’s one of those cocktails I turn to when I want something bright and flavorful, with a spicy ginger kick that wakes up my palate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this cocktail feels fresh and invigorating with each sip. The sharpness of lemon, the warmth of ginger, and the smoothness of gin make for a balanced and memorable drink. It’s simple enough to make at home but feels fancy enough for entertaining. Lemon Ginger Gimlets

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Gin
Fresh lemon juice
Ginger syrup (store-bought or homemade by simmering fresh ginger with sugar and water)
Ice cubes
Lemon peel or candied ginger (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I fill a cocktail shaker with ice, then pour in the gin, fresh lemon juice, and ginger syrup.
I shake it vigorously for about 20 seconds until it’s well chilled.
I strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass or coupe.
I garnish with a twist of lemon peel or a piece of candied ginger for a fun finish.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 cocktail. It takes about 5 minutes to prepare from start to sip.

Variations

Sometimes I infuse the syrup with honey instead of sugar for a smoother sweetness. I’ve also added a splash of club soda for a sparkling twist instead of gin when I want something lighter. For extra spice, I muddle fresh ginger before shaking.

Storage/reheating

This cocktail is best made fresh. If I prep it ahead for a party, I mix everything but the ice and store it in a pitcher in the fridge. Right before serving, I shake each drink with ice. I don’t reheat or freeze this drink — it’s meant to be served ice cold. Lemon Ginger Gimlets

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but in a pinch, I use bottled — I just make sure it’s 100% juice with no added sweeteners.

How do I make ginger syrup?

I simmer equal parts sugar and water with sliced fresh ginger for 10–15 minutes, then strain and cool. It keeps in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Can I make a non-alcoholic version?

Yes. I swap the gin for sparkling water or tonic and keep the lemon and ginger syrup. It’s still super refreshing.

What type of gin works best?

I usually go for a classic London dry gin, but citrus-forward gins add another layer of brightness.

How do I make it spicier?

I either increase the amount of ginger syrup or add muddled raw ginger to the shaker before mixing.

Conclusion

Lemon ginger gimlets are one of those drinks that taste as good as they look — clean, citrusy, and bold with a gingery edge. Whether I’m mixing up one for myself or a batch for friends, it’s a cocktail that always delivers a refreshing twist.