There’s something magical about a cocktail that balances sweet, sour, and spirit in perfect harmony—and the Bees Knees cocktail recipe does just that. This Prohibition-era classic, with its honeyed charm and citrusy zing, is the kind of drink that makes you pause and savor every sip.
Whether you’re a gin lover, a cocktail newbie, or just someone who enjoys a well-crafted drink, these 5 Bees Knees cocktail recipe variations will have you buzzing with delight. From classic renditions to creative twists, each of these cocktails is truly the bee’s knees!
1. The Classic Bees Knees Cocktail
Why You’ll Love It:
This is the OG—smooth, refreshing, and effortlessly elegant. The honey syrup mellows out the gin’s botanicals while the lemon adds a bright, tangy finish.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin (London Dry works best)
- ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
- ½ oz honey syrup (equal parts honey & warm water, stirred)
- Lemon twist or slice (for garnish)
How to Make It:
- Fill a shaker with ice.
- Add gin, lemon juice, and honey syrup.
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist.
How It Looks & Tastes:
Pale gold with a silky texture, this cocktail is crisp, floral, and just sweet enough. The honey lingers on the palate, making each sip smoother than the last.
2. The Lavender Bees Knees
Why You’ll Love It:
If you adore floral notes, this knees bees cocktail recipe is for you. Lavender adds a dreamy, aromatic touch that elevates the drink to spa-like sophistication.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin
- ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
- ½ oz lavender-infused honey syrup (steep dried lavender in warm honey syrup for 10 mins, then strain)
- Sprig of fresh lavender (for garnish)
How to Make It:
- Combine gin, lemon juice, and lavender honey syrup in a shaker with ice.
- Shake well and strain into a martini glass.
- Garnish with a lavender sprig.
How It Looks & Tastes:
Soft purple hues (if the lavender tints the syrup) with a fragrant, herbaceous aroma. The taste is delicately floral, with a soothing sweetness.
3. The Spiced Honey Bees Knees
Why You’ll Love It:
Warm spices like cinnamon and clove turn this Bees Knees cocktail recipe into a cozy, winter-friendly sipper.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin
- ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
- ½ oz spiced honey syrup (simmer honey with a cinnamon stick & 2 cloves, then strain)
- Cinnamon stick (for garnish)
How to Make It:
- Shake gin, lemon juice, and spiced honey syrup with ice.
- Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
How It Looks & Tastes:
Golden-amber with a rich, spiced aroma. The warmth of cinnamon and clove complements the gin’s botanicals beautifully.
4. The Bourbon Bees Knees
Why You’ll Love It:
For those who prefer whiskey over gin, this twist on the knees bees cocktail recipe swaps gin for bourbon, adding a deeper, caramel-like richness.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
- ½ oz honey syrup
- Lemon wheel (for garnish)
How to Make It:
- Shake bourbon, lemon juice, and honey syrup with ice.
- Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel.
How It Looks & Tastes:
Amber-brown with a velvety texture. The bourbon’s oakiness blends with honey’s sweetness, while lemon keeps it lively.
5. The Sparkling Bees Knees
Why You’ll Love It:
Bubbly, bright, and perfect for celebrations, this fizzy take on the Bees Knees cocktail recipe adds a splash of effervescence.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz gin
- ½ oz fresh lemon juice
- ½ oz honey syrup
- 2 oz prosecco or sparkling wine
- Lemon peel twist (for garnish)
How to Make It:
- Shake gin, lemon juice, and honey syrup with ice.
- Strain into a flute glass.
- Top with prosecco.
- Garnish with a lemon twist.
How It Looks & Tastes:
Pale and sparkling with lively bubbles. The prosecco lightens the drink, making it crisp and celebratory.
Conclusion
There you have it—five knees bees cocktail recipes that are truly the bee’s knees! Whether you stick with the classic or experiment with lavender, spice, bourbon, or bubbles, each version brings its own magic to the glass.
So, grab your shaker, pick your favorite variation, and let’s raise a toast to this timeless cocktail. Cheers!
