Sweet, spicy, and a little fancy — but still super easy.
This cocktail is a little bit fruity, a little bit spicy, and totally refreshing.
It’s the kind of drink that feels like a treat at the end of the day, but it’s actually really simple to make.
We had a bunch of ripe plums hanging around, and after some experimenting (and taste testing!), this plum ginger gin sour became a favorite.
It’s great for slow nights on the patio or to kick off a fun evening with friends.
🍹 Why I Love This Recipe
This one’s become a go-to for a few reasons:
- Fresh plums = major flavor. A little tart, a little sweet.
- The ginger adds just enough spice to keep it interesting.
- The foam on top is silky and pretty (thanks egg white!).
- It’s super impressive but not hard at all.
- You can make it with pantry staples and one fresh fruit.
🛒 What You’ll Need
- 2 ripe plums, pitted and chopped
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water)
- 2 oz gin
- 1 egg white (or 2 tbsp aquafaba for vegan version)
- ½ tsp freshly grated ginger
- Ice
👩🍳 Tools You’ll Need
- Cocktail shaker
- Fine mesh strainer
- Jigger (or measuring spoons)
- Small bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Coupe or rocks glass
🧠 Pro Tips
- Use really ripe plums — the softer they are, the sweeter and juicier the drink.
- Double strain for a smoother sip (no pulp, no problem).
- No cocktail shaker? Use a mason jar with a lid!
- Wanna skip the egg white? Aquafaba (chickpea water) froths up beautifully.
- Chill your glass ahead of time for that icy-cold first sip.
🔁 Substitutions and Variations
- No fresh plums? Use 2 tbsp plum jam instead.
- Swap ginger for a dash of ginger syrup if you don’t have fresh.
- Don’t like gin? Vodka works too (but gin adds more flavor).
- No egg? Use 2 tbsp aquafaba or skip the foam altogether.
⏰ Make Ahead Tips
- You can make the simple syrup up to a week ahead and store in the fridge.
- Muddle and strain the plum and ginger mix up to a day ahead — just store it in a jar.
🥂 What to Serve With
This cocktail pairs great with:
- A cheese board with brie or goat cheese
- Light appetizers like shrimp cocktail or crostini
- Spicy snacks (the ginger plays nice with heat!)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Muddle the plums and ginger
Add the chopped plums and grated ginger into your cocktail shaker. Muddle well until juicy and broken down.
Step 2: Add lemon juice, syrup, gin, and egg white
Pour in the lemon juice, simple syrup, gin, and egg white (or aquafaba). Don’t add ice yet.
Step 3: Dry shake (no ice)
Seal the shaker and shake hard for 20 seconds. This helps build that frothy top.
Step 4: Add ice and shake again
Open the shaker, add a handful of ice, then shake again for another 15–20 seconds to chill.
Step 5: Double strain into glass
Strain the drink through a fine mesh strainer into your chilled glass. The drink should be smooth with a foamy top.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Top with a thin plum slice or a pinch of candied ginger. Cheers!
🧊 Leftovers & Storage
This cocktail is best fresh! But if you want to prep:
- Without egg white: You can mix and chill the base (plum, lemon, syrup, gin) for a few hours.
- With egg white: Always shake fresh. Foam doesn’t keep well.
- Leftover plums? Freeze for smoothies or next time’s cocktail!
❓FAQ
Can I make it without a shaker?
Yep! Use a mason jar with a tight lid. Just be sure to strain well.
Is the egg white safe to drink?
Yes, especially if you use pasteurized eggs. Or swap with aquafaba!
Can I batch this for a party?
Totally. Just don’t add egg white until serving, and shake individually for the foam.
🥰 Wrap Up
If you love fruity, refreshing drinks with a twist — this Plum Ginger Gin Sour is totally for you. It’s simple enough for a weeknight and fancy enough for guests. Give it a try, then leave a comment and let me know how yours turned out or if you made any fun changes! Cheers! 🍸