Name: Plum Ginger Gin Sour
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-488316H33M12S
Total time: PT-488316H33M12S
Cuisine: Cocktail
Ingredients: 2 oz gin; 1/2 fresh plum (muddled) or 1 oz plum purée; 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice; 3/4 oz ginger syrup (or 1/2 oz simple syrup + muddled fresh ginger); 1/2 oz egg white or aquafaba (optional); Ice; Plum slice or candied ginger (for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cocktail is the perfect mix of fruity, spicy, and refreshing. The plum adds a deep, jammy flavor and beautiful color, while ginger provides a subtle heat that elevates the entire drink. With a classic sour structure — spirit, citrus, and sweetener — it’s familiar yet fresh. It’s also versatile, seasonal, and visually stunning with its vibrant purple hue and frothy top.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Gin
Fresh plum (or plum purée)
Fresh lemon juice
Ginger syrup (or muddled fresh ginger with simple syrup)
Egg white or aquafaba (optional, for froth)
Ice
Plum slice or candied ginger (for garnish)

Directions

Muddle or mix: If using a fresh plum, remove the pit and muddle the flesh in a cocktail shaker. If using plum purée, skip this step.
Add gin, lemon juice, ginger syrup, and egg white (if using) to the shaker.
Dry shake (without ice) for about 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white or aquafaba.
Add ice and shake again for 15–20 seconds until well chilled and frothy.
Double strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass.
Garnish with a plum slice, candied ginger, or a twist of lemon.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 cocktail.

Prep time: 5–10 minutes
Cook time: None (unless making ginger syrup)
Total time: 5–10 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a small pinch of cayenne or muddle a thin slice of chili with the plum.
Herbal Note: Add a sprig of thyme or rosemary to the shaker for an earthy undertone.
Non-Alcoholic: Use non-alcoholic gin or omit gin entirely and increase the plum, ginger, and citrus for a flavorful mocktail.
Bubbly Twist: Top with sparkling water or tonic for a refreshing plum gin fizz.
Plum Jam Hack: Substitute plum purée with 1 tablespoon of plum jam mixed with a little warm water.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: This cocktail is best made fresh.
Ginger syrup: Make ahead and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
Plum purée: Can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Egg white or aquafaba should not be stored once mixed — always shake fresh for safety and best texture.

FAQs

What kind of gin works best?

A London Dry gin gives a clean base, while a floral or citrus-forward gin enhances the plum and ginger flavors.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is best for brightness, but bottled can work in a pinch.

Do I have to use egg white?

No, but it adds a silky texture and beautiful foam. Aquafaba (chickpea brine) is a great vegan alternative.

How do I make ginger syrup?

Simmer equal parts sugar, water, and sliced fresh ginger for 10–15 minutes. Strain and cool.

What if I don’t have fresh plums?

Use plum purée, unsweetened plum nectar, or a tablespoon of plum jam mixed with water.

Can I make this sweeter?

Yes, adjust the amount of ginger syrup or add a splash of honey syrup to taste.

Do I need to double strain?

Double straining removes pulp and ensures a smooth, clean texture — especially important when using fresh fruit.

Can I batch this cocktail?

You can prep the base ingredients ahead, but shake individual portions to preserve texture and freshness.

What glass should I use?

A coupe or small rocks glass works best for this style of cocktail.

Can I use another fruit?

Yes! Try figs, blackberries, or pomegranate as a twist on the plum base.

Conclusion

The Plum Ginger Gin Sour is a striking and sophisticated cocktail that delivers big flavor and seasonal charm in every sip. With the richness of ripe plums, the zing of ginger, and the brightness of citrus, it’s a perfect blend of sweet, sour, and spice. Whether you’re toasting to fall or just mixing up something special, this cocktail brings a refreshing twist to your glass.