When it comes to classic cocktails, few are as iconic and refreshing as the Aviation. With its delicate balance of gin, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, and lemon juice, this Prohibition-era drink has won over hearts and taste buds for generations. But why stick to just one recipe when you can try a whole collection of creative twists and variations? In this article, we’ll take you on a journey around the world with 20 refreshing Aviation cocktail recipes that will quench your thirst and satisfy your sense of adventure.
From sweet and fruity flavors to savory and spicy notes, these innovative takes on the classic Aviation will inspire your inner mixologist and leave you wanting more. So grab your shaker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to take flight with some of the most exciting and refreshing cocktails around!
Classic Aviation Cocktail
Experience the timeless charm of this Prohibition-era cocktail, featuring gin, maraschino liqueur, and a splash of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz maraschino liqueur
– 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
– 1/4 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Lemon twist or cherry garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the gin, maraschino liqueur, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or cherry, if desired.
Cooking Time: None!
Blueberry Aviation Twist
A refreshing twist on traditional blueberry muffins, this recipe adds a hint of citrus and crunch with toasted almonds and a drizzle of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/4 cup chopped toasted almonds
– Honey, for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, Greek yogurt, and orange zest.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in blueberries and almonds.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
8. Drizzle with honey while still warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lavender Infused Aviation
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique take on the classic Aviation. The subtle sweetness of lavender syrup adds depth and complexity to the crisp combination of gin, maraschino liqueur, and lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 3/4 oz maraschino liqueur
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz lavender syrup (see below for recipe)
– Dash of simple syrup (optional)
– Lemon twist or edible flower, for garnish
Lavender Syrup Recipe:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
Combine sugar and water in a saucepan. Add lavender buds and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until syrup has thickened slightly. Strain and let cool.
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, maraschino liqueur, lemon juice, and lavender syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or edible flower.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)
Elderflower Aviation Delight
This light and airy cocktail combines the subtle sweetness of elderflower liqueur with the crispness of ginger beer, perfect for a warm evening or as a unique addition to your next aviation-themed party.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz elderflower liqueur
– 4 oz ginger beer
– Juice of 1 lime (about 1/2 oz)
– Splash of soda water
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the elderflower liqueur and ginger beer.
3. Squeeze in the lime juice and stir gently to combine.
4. Top with a splash of soda water.
5. Stir again to incorporate the fizz.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail!
Gin-Free Aviation Mocktail
Sip on this classic mocktail, reminiscent of the iconic Aviation cocktail without the gin. This refreshing drink is perfect for those looking for a non-alcoholic alternative or a fun twist on a timeless classic.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier)
– Splash of soda water
– Ice
– Orange twist or slice for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add grapefruit juice, lemon juice, and honey syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Add orange liqueur and stir gently.
6. Top with a splash of soda water.
7. Garnish with an orange twist or slice.
Cooking Time: None!
Spiced Aviation with Cinnamon
This Spiced Aviation cocktail combines the classic flavors of whiskey, cream, and spices, infused with the warmth of cinnamon. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a pick-me-up any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1/2 oz Grand Marnier
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground allspice
– Pinch of salt
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add whiskey, Grand Marnier, heavy cream, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain into a warmed glass (e.g., a coffee mug or heat-proof rocks glass).
5. Sprinkle with salt to balance flavors.
Cooking Time: None! Just shake, strain, and serve.
Raspberry Aviation Bliss
This refreshing dessert combines the sweetness of raspberries with the tanginess of citrus and creamy texture, perfect for a light and revitalizing treat after a long day. With its vibrant color and delightful flavor, Raspberry Aviation Bliss is sure to lift your spirits!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the raspberries until smooth.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the heavy cream and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in the raspberry puree, lime juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Spoon the mixture into individual serving cups or glasses.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! Simply chill and serve.
Vanilla Bean Aviation Cocktail
Elevate your cocktail game with this creamy, dreamy Vanilla Bean Aviation. The perfect blend of sweet and savory, this drink is sure to take you on a flight of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz gin
– 1 oz vanilla bean-infused simple syrup (see note)
– 1 oz heavy cream
– 1/2 oz maraschino liqueur
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Dash of powdered sugar
– Ice
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, vanilla bean-infused simple syrup, heavy cream, maraschino liqueur, and lemon juice.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass.
5. Dust the surface with powdered sugar.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Note: To make vanilla bean-infused simple syrup, combine 1 cup water with 1 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 vanilla bean (split lengthwise) in a saucepan. Heat until sugar dissolves, then let steep for at least 30 minutes before straining and cooling.
Cucumber Aviation Refreshment
Beat the heat with this refreshing twist on a classic summer drink! This Cucumber Aviation Refreshment is perfect for hot days when you need a cooling pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup gin (or to taste)
– 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water dissolved)
– Ice cubes
– Lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the cucumber slices and water. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Strain the cucumber mixture into a separate container, discarding the solids.
3. Add the gin, lime juice, and simple syrup to the liquid. Stir well to combine.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Cucumber Aviation Refreshment over the ice.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Tropical Aviation with Pineapple
Escape to a tropical paradise with this vibrant and refreshing drink that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the tanginess of citrus. Perfect for warm weather or as a pick-me-up any time of the year!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pineapple juice
– 1 cup ginger ale
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 cup ice
– Splash of grenadine syrup (optional)
– Lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a glass with ice.
2. Pour in the pineapple juice and ginger ale, leaving about an inch at the top.
3. Squeeze in the lime juice and stir gently to combine.
4. If desired, add a splash of grenadine syrup for a subtle sweetness.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This drink is ready in just minutes!
Smoky Aviation with Mezcal
Elevate your cocktail game with this smoky twist on the classic Aviation, featuring mezcal’s bold flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz gin
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz maraschino liqueur
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/2 oz mezcal
– Dash of orange bitters
– Ice
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, lemon juice, maraschino liqueur, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass.
5. Add mezcal and orange bitters.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None (just shake and serve!)
Rose Petal Aviation Elegance
Experience the sophistication of this elegant cocktail, infused with the subtle charm of rose petals. Perfect for special occasions or a refined evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz rose syrup (see note)
– 1/2 oz lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/4 oz grenadine
– Splash of soda water
– Fresh rose petals for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, rose syrup, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Add grenadine and stir gently to create a subtle layering effect.
6. Top with a splash of soda water.
7. Garnish with fresh rose petals.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Citrus Burst Aviation
A refreshing twist on classic aviation, this cocktail combines the bright flavors of citrus with a hint of sweetness and spice. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a revitalizing drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Gin
– 1 oz Freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz Honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz Freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 oz Ginger liqueur (such as Domaine de Canton)
– Splash of soda water
– Ice
– Orange twist or slice, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, grapefruit juice, honey syrup, and orange juice.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Add ginger liqueur and stir gently.
6. Top with a splash of soda water.
7. Garnish with an orange twist or slice.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail!
Cherry Blossom Aviation
Combine the delicate flavors of cherry blossom with the crispness of aviation gin for a unique and revitalizing cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Aviation American Gin
– 1/2 oz Cherry Blossom Liqueur
– 1/2 oz Fresh Lime Juice
– 1/2 oz Simple Syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Splash of Sparkling Water
– Edible Flowers or Lime Wheel for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the Aviation American Gin, Cherry Blossom Liqueur, Fresh Lime Juice, and Simple Syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a splash of Sparkling Water.
6. Garnish with edible flowers or a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: N/A (Cocktail preparation)
Herbal Aviation with Thyme
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on classic aviation. This herbal-infused variation combines the smoothness of gin, the tanginess of citrus, and the subtle warmth of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz gin
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/2 oz maraschino liqueur
– 1/4 oz thyme-infused honey syrup (see note)
– Splash of soda water
– Lemon twist and sprig of thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, maraschino liqueur, and thyme-infused honey syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a splash of soda water.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist and sprig of thyme.
Cooking Time: None
Note: To make thyme-infused honey syrup, combine 1 cup honey with 1 cup boiling water and 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves in a saucepan. Stir until honey dissolves, then let cool and strain before using.
Peach Aviation Summer Cooler
Beat the heat with this refreshing Peach Aviation Summer Cooler, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing evening on the patio!
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe peach, diced
– 2 cups sparkling water
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons honey syrup (equal parts honey and water, dissolved)
– Ice cubes
– Sliced peaches and mint for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine diced peach and honey syrup. Stir until the peach is well coated.
2. Add chopped fresh mint leaves to the pitcher and stir gently to combine.
3. Pour in the sparkling water and stir briefly to distribute the flavors.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve over ice and garnish with additional sliced peaches and mint, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This refreshing cooler is ready in just a few simple steps.
Enjoy your Peach Aviation Summer Cooler!
Sparkling Aviation with Prosecco
A refreshing twist on the classic Aviation cocktail, this Sparkling Aviation combines the sweetness of honey and the effervescence of Prosecco for a celebratory drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz maraschino liqueur
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– Splash of Prosecco
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, maraschino liqueur, lemon juice, and honey syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a splash of Prosecco.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Spicy Ginger Aviation
Get ready to take flight with this spicy twist on a classic aviation cocktail! The combination of ginger liqueur, citrus, and a hint of heat will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz gin
– 1 oz ginger liqueur (such as Domaine de Canton)
– 1 oz freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 3 dashes of cayenne pepper-infused simple syrup (see note)
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, ginger liqueur, grapefruit juice, and honey syrup to the shaker.
3. Add 3 dashes of cayenne pepper-infused simple syrup (see note).
4. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None, this is a cocktail!
Note: To make cayenne pepper-infused simple syrup, combine 1 cup water with 2 tablespoons sugar and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Let cool before using.
Blackberry Aviation Fusion
Experience a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy flavors with this refreshing cocktail, perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a touch of sophistication. This Blackberry Aviation Fusion recipe combines the sweetness of blackberries with the subtle bitterness of green tea, all wrapped up in a crisp glass.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Gin
– 1/2 oz Fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz Green tea-infused simple syrup (see note)
– 1/4 oz Blackberry puree
– Splash of soda water
– Ice
– Lime wheel and blackberry, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, lime juice, green tea-infused simple syrup, and blackberry puree.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with soda water.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and blackberry.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Bourbon Aviation Twist
This refreshing Bourbon Aviation Twist combines the smoothness of bourbon with the tartness of citrus, making it perfect for warm weather sipping. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this cocktail is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1 oz freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz lemon juice
– 1 dash Angostura bitters
– Ice
– Lemon twist or sprig of rosemary for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add bourbon, grapefruit juice, honey syrup, and lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Add a dash of Angostura bitters.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
5. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or sprig of rosemary.
Cooking Time: None
Summary
Get ready to take your cocktail game to new heights with these 20 refreshing aviation cocktail recipes! From classic twists to innovative flavor combinations, there’s something for every palate. Try the Classic Aviation Cocktail, made with gin, maraschino liqueur, and lemon juice, or opt for a fruity twist like the Blueberry Aviation Twist or Raspberry Aviation Bliss. For a unique spin, try the Lavender Infused Aviation or Smoky Aviation with Mezcal. And don’t forget to include some non-alcoholic options, like the Gin-Free Aviation Mocktail or Cucumber Aviation Refreshment. Whatever your taste, there’s an aviation cocktail recipe here for you!
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