Figgytinis

It’s the holidays! Won’t you mix up a batch of figgytinis with me? This one’s for all you gin-lovers out there, especially you gin martini stans who aren’t afraid to shake things up a bit. And I mean literally shake things up, James Bond-style.

While a classic gin martini is just gin and dry vermouth, these Figgytinis throw the rules out the window. The base of gin (see my gift guide!) is mixed in a pitcher with lemon juice, fig preserves, elderflower liqueur, and cinnamon vanilla maple syrup so you can serve a crowd. The fig preserves and flavored maple syrup are super easy to make yourself, so I’ve included instructions below. Happy holidays!

Watch Me Mix It

Mix It With Me

1. Add gin, lemon juice, fig preserves, elderflower liqueur, and cinnamon vanilla maple syrup* to a large pitcher.
2. Whisk or stir thoroughly until the fig preserves dissolve and the mix looks smooth.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to 2 days. (Note: No dilution is added yet because you will shake each cocktail with ice.)
4. When you’re ready to serve, fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
5. Pour 3.5 to 4 ounces of the pitcher mix into the shaker and shake until ice-cold and frothy.
6. Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass and garnish with your choice of fig, lemon, cinnamon or star anise.

*To make your own cinnamon vanilla maple syrup, simply warm maple syrup in the stove top with a cinnamon stick and a tiny splash of vanilla. Let it cool completely (and remove the cinnamon stick) before adding it to your figgytini.

Make Your Own Fig Preserves

You can probably find fig preserves or fig jam at the store, but wouldn’t it just be so much cooler if you made your own?! The flavor will be so much better and after you’ve added what you need to your Figgytinis, you can store the rest in cute little jars, tie a ribbon around the lid, and gift it to anyone who’s hosting you this holiday season. You’ll need:

• 2 cups fresh or dried figs, chopped
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup sugar or honey
• 1 to 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: pinch of cinnamon

Instructions

1. Add figs, water and sugar to a small pot.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
3. Cook 15 to 20 minutes until figs break down and mixture thickens.
4. Stir in lemon juice, vanilla and optional cinnamon.
5. If you want it smoother, mash lightly or pulse with an immersion blender.
6. Cool completely, then store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Tips

• If your fig preserves are thick, blend the pitcher mixture for a few seconds before chilling.
• Add an extra splash of maple for more richness or a squeeze of lemon in the shaker for extra brightness.
• Figgytinis are perfect for holiday hosting, gifting moments, or a cozy winter happy hour.

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