Cinnamon Stick and Clove Gin and Tonic Cocktail Recipe

Honestly, I love taking a classic drink and giving it just enough of a twist to make it feel new—without making things complicated. Gin and tonic already has that crisp, clean flavor, but toss in a couple of warm spices and suddenly it’s something totally different.

A cinnamon stick and a few cloves? Super simple, but they add this amazing depth and a cozy vibe to the whole thing.

Whenever I make this version at home, I notice the spices really balance out the sharpness from the tonic and the botanicals in the gin. The cinnamon brings a touch of sweetness, and the clove? It gives a gentle, earthy note.

It’s honestly such an easy upgrade. Feels thoughtful, but you barely have to do anything extra.

Let me show you exactly what you’ll need, how to throw it together, and what you can expect once you take that first sip. You’ll know what you’re aiming for.

Cinnamon Stick And Clove Gin And Tonic Cocktail Recipe

I tend to reach for this cocktail when I want a gin and tonic that’s got a bit more warmth and spice. Cinnamon stick and cloves just make it feel so much cozier, but the tonic still keeps things bright and refreshing.

Equipment

• Highball glass – I always go for a tall glass so there’s plenty of room for ice and tonic.
• Jigger – Makes it easy to actually measure the gin and any other stuff you toss in.
• Bar spoon – Gentle stirring is key, so you don’t kill the tonic’s bubbles.
• Citrus peeler or knife – For cutting an orange slice or peel for garnish, which, honestly, makes it look fancier than it is.
• Small lighter or torch (optional) – Sometimes I’ll char the cinnamon stick a bit for a smoky kick, but only if I’m feeling extra.
• Ice mold – I like using those big ice cubes. They melt slower, so the drink stays cold and doesn’t get watered down.

Having the right tools just makes mixing easier, and honestly, it helps the drink look and taste better too.

Ingredients

• 2 oz London Dry Gin (I usually grab Tanqueray or Hendrick’s)
• 4-5 oz Indian tonic water (Fever Tree is my default, but 1724 is great too)
• 1 whole cinnamon stick
• 2-3 whole cloves
• 1 thin orange slice or peel
• 1 big ice cube, or just a few smaller ones if that’s what you’ve got
• Optional: 1 star anise, a rosemary sprig, or a dash of orange bitters if you want to mix it up

Sometimes I’ll add a little honey syrup or simple syrup if I’m craving something sweeter. Fresh citrus—like a splash of lemon or orange juice—can also mellow out the spice if you want.

Instructions

• Drop a big ice cube into your highball glass.
• Toss in the cinnamon stick and cloves right on top.
• Pour in 2 oz of gin (I use a jigger so I don’t go overboard).
• If you’re adding bitters, syrup, or citrus juice, do it now.
• Slowly top up with tonic water, about 4-5 oz, but I don’t measure too strictly.
• Stir gently with a bar spoon so you don’t lose all those bubbles.
• Garnish with an orange slice, rosemary, or even a star anise if you want to get fancy.
• If you’re in the mood for a smoky flavor, just lightly torch the cinnamon stick before it goes in.

I try not to stir too much—the fizz is half the fun.

Notes

London Dry Gin is usually my go-to. The clean juniper flavor just works with the spices. Sometimes I’ll grab a spiced gin if I’m feeling adventurous or want more depth.

Tonic water matters more than you’d think. Fever Tree is classic, but 1724 has this softer quinine thing going on that’s really nice.

Want it even more autumnal? Add a splash of blood orange juice or a pinch of nutmeg. Smoked cinnamon is a game changer if you’re after that rich aroma.

I don’t follow a strict formula with this one. I’ll swap out spices or mixers depending on the season or honestly, whatever I find in my kitchen.

Tasting Notes

When I take that first sip, the warm spice jumps out at me. The cinnamon stick brings this gentle sweetness, but there’s also a dry, earthy edge from the clove.

Together, those two balance out the crisp bitterness of the tonic. It’s a little unexpected, honestly.

The drink feels refreshing, but there’s something oddly comforting about it too. Those spices make it taste almost like a winter cocktail, even though it’s light enough to drink whenever you want.

The gin’s botanicals hang around in the background. They never really overpower the spice, which I appreciate.

I really like how the aroma lines up with the flavor. The steam off the cinnamon and clove hits my nose before I even take a sip.

It sets the stage for what’s coming next. Makes the whole thing feel pretty cozy, kind of layered.

The mouthfeel is smooth—no harsh bite at all. The tonic water keeps things bright, while the spices just sort of linger at the back of my throat.

There’s a subtle dryness, too, and honestly, it makes me want to take another sip.

Some folks say cinnamon and clove have anti-inflammatory qualities. I mean, can you really measure that in a cocktail?

Either way, I like knowing the spices bring more than just flavor. It adds a little sense of comfort that goes beyond taste.