Growing up, Christmas dinner always ended with my grandmother’s figgy pudding. While the adults raved about it, I secretly thought it tasted like fruit cake’s weird British cousin. Years later, I discovered something that changed my mind about this holiday tradition – turning it into a cocktail. Now, instead of forcing down dense pudding, I get to sip on this creamy drink that captures all those familiar Christmas spices. It’s become such a hit at our holiday parties that friends actually ask for it by name, which would probably make my grandmother either proud or horrified – I’m still not quite sure which.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ginger ale can be replaced with soda water and a dash of ginger juice for a less sweet, more customizable flavor. This substitution allows for better control over the drink’s sweetness and ginger intensity. Dry London gin can be swapped with vodka for a more neutral base spirit, or with white rum for a slightly sweeter profile. Adjust the amount to taste, as different spirits have varying strengths. Fig preserve can be substituted with date paste or prune puree for a similar rich, fruity flavor. Use about 1.5 teaspoons of date paste or prune puree to match the sweetness and consistency of fig preserve. These alternatives maintain the cocktail’s dark fruit notes while offering different nuances.
| Preparation Time | 5-10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 0-5 minutes |
| Total Time | 5-15 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 300-350
- Protein: 0-1 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 75-80 g
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp fig preserves (I like Dalmatia)
- 2 pieces candied ginger
- 3 fl oz ginger ale
- 0.25 fl oz simple syrup
- 2.5 fl oz dry gin (like Tanqueray or Beefeater)
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Begin by adding gin, simple syrup, and fig jam into a cocktail shaker.
Then add a generous amount of cubed ice to the shaker to chill the mixture.
Step 2: Shake the Mixture
Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for 10-20 seconds.
This will ensure that the ingredients are well mixed and the flavors are combined properly.
Step 3: Strain into Glass
Once shaken, strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with fresh cracked ice.
This will help maintain the chill and dilution level of the drink.
Step 4: Add Final Touches
Top off the drink with ginger ale to add a refreshing fizz.
Finally, garnish with a piece of candied ginger for an elegant touch and extra flavor.
Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious creation!
