Golden Hour Cocktail

Whether we are ready or not, the holiday season is fast approaching. I don’t know about all of you but it feels different this year. I mean, of course it does, but it doesn’t feel the way I thought it would. I’m not sure what I thought it would feel like, but I guess this isn’t what I was expecting…? I’m searching for holiday spirit where I can find it but less in the “get pumped” way and more in the “find joyful peace” way. Snuggling on the sofa with my kids under a soft blanket, looking for beautiful leaves that have fallen to the ground, playing beautiful music…

And planning what we will be eating. Always.

This Golden Hour Cocktail is perfect for this year when we are perhaps welcoming family back into our homes for the holidays. It can be made, as written, with gin. But you can also use bourbon, tequila, vodka, or no liquor at all. The golden color and myriad of fall/winter flavors- sweet orange, warm cinnamon, earthy thyme- make this simple sipper a must make for the season.

How do I dry orange slices?

I’m glad you asked! It is surprisingly simple: heat the oven to 200° F. Thinly slice an orange and arrange them on a rack set over a large rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 2-3 hours, turning occasionally, until they are dry. That’s it!

What if I don’t have Orangina?

You can mix orange juice with club soda for a similar flavor and color! Easy as pie.

How do I make honey cinnamon simple syrup?

I LOVE using honey in simple syrup. It creates a beautiful flavor and lends itself well to the addition of spices or herbs. For the honey cinnamon simple syrup, I simply combine 1/2 cup honey (wildflower is my go-to) with 2/3 cup water in a small saucepan. Add 2 cinnamon sticks. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Turn off the heat and allow the syrup to cool. Transfer to a jar along with the cinnamon sticks. Use when completely cooled or store in the fridge until ready to use, up to 2 weeks. The cinnamon sticks will lend more flavor the longer they hang out in the syrup, so I like to let it all hang out for a couple days.

Golden Hour Cocktail

Makes 6 cocktails

• 16 oz Orangina (or combination of orange juice + club soda)

• 4 oz club soda or plain sparkling water

• 6 oz gin (or liquor of your choice)

• 3 oz honey cinnamon simple syrup (see above for how to make this)

• Dried orange slices (see above for how to make these)

• Fresh thyme sprigs, pomegranate seeds, and/or fresh cranberries for garnish

1. In a pitcher, combine the simple syrup and gin. Add a handful of ice cubes. Stir to combine and chill.

2. Add the Orangina and stir gently to combine again.

3. Pour the chilled cocktail over a strainer (to remove any bits of ice) and into coupe glasses or other cocktail glass of your choosing. Pour a bit of club soda over the top, garnish with orange slices and thyme sprigs, and serve.