I’m a big fan of mixing up simple ingredients to get bold flavors, and this cocktail really hits that sweet spot. There’s this warmth from the clove, plus a bright pop of orange, and somehow it manages to feel both refreshing and cozy.
This Clove and Orange Gin Cocktail is all about spice and citrus coming together for a drink that’s easy to make and full of flavor.
Whenever I want something that’s not just another gin and tonic, I turn to this recipe. It’s got those everyday ingredients, but the taste is special—without any complicated steps.
The mix of citrus and spice is perfect for slow evenings or just hanging out with friends. I’ll walk you through how quick it is to make, what you’ll need, and the exact steps so you can try it yourself.
Oh, and I’ll throw in some tasting notes too, so you’ll know what to expect with each sip.
Clove And Orange Gin Cocktail Recipe
What I like about this drink is how it balances that warm spice with a burst of citrus. Clove, orange, and gin together make a smooth cocktail that’s both comforting and bright.
You only need a few simple tools, some fresh ingredients, and a couple of easy steps to bring it all together. It’s honestly not fussy.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker – I use this to mix and chill the drink quickly.
- Jigger or measuring tool – This helps me pour the right amounts of gin, juice, and syrup.
- Strainer – I place this on the shaker to keep ice and spices out of the glass.
- Rocks glass – I like serving this cocktail over ice in a sturdy glass.
- Bar spoon – I use it to stir when I don’t want to shake too hard.
- Citrus juicer – Fresh juice makes a big difference, so I press oranges and lemons myself.
- Peeler or zester – I prepare orange peel for garnish and extra aroma.
- Small saucepan – I use this if I want to make clove syrup instead of adding whole spices.
Having the right tools just makes the process smoother. And honestly, it helps the drink taste more balanced.
Ingredients
- 2 oz London dry gin
- 1 oz fresh orange juice
- 0.5 oz lemon juice
- 0.5 oz orange liqueur
- 0.5 oz honey syrup or simple syrup
- 2 dashes orange bitters
- 1 pinch ground clove or clove-infused syrup
- 1 small piece orange peel for garnish
- 1 cinnamon stick or star anise for garnish
- Ice cubes
I usually reach for London dry gin—it just works with citrus and spice. Fresh juice is key for that clean taste, and honey syrup helps mellow out the lemon’s sharpness.
Clove and cinnamon bring depth, but they don’t overpower the orange, which I appreciate.
Instructions
- Fill a shaker with ice.
- Add gin, orange juice, lemon juice, orange liqueur, syrup, bitters, and clove.
- Shake well for about 15 seconds until the shaker feels cold.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with an orange peel twist.
- Add a cinnamon stick or star anise for extra aroma.
I always shake this one—citrus and syrup just blend better that way. Don’t skip the garnish; it really adds something you can smell and taste.
Notes
Sometimes I swap honey syrup for simple syrup if I want it a bit lighter. For a stronger spice kick, I’ll simmer cloves in the syrup for a few minutes first.
Fresh orange juice is best, but if you’re in a pinch, bottled works. I’ll sometimes toss in a rosemary sprig or even an orange blossom if I’m feeling fancy or want a herbal note.
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 oz London Dry Gin
- 1 oz fresh orange juice
- 0.5 oz orange liqueur
- 0.5 oz honey syrup equal parts honey and water
- 0.25 oz lemon juice
- 2 dashes orange bitters
- 1 clove for garnish or infusion
- 1 cinnamon stick optional garnish
- 1 strip orange peel
- Star anise optional garnish
Instructions
- Fill shaker with ice. Add gin, orange juice, orange liqueur, honey syrup, lemon juice, and bitters.
- Shake for about 15 seconds until cold.
- Strain into a chilled glass, over ice or straight up in a coupe.
- Garnish with orange peel, clove, cinnamon stick, or star anise.
Notes
Tasting Notes
When I take the first sip, the warm spice of clove hits me right away. It gives the drink this cozy depth that somehow balances out the brighter flavors.
The spice isn’t harsh—it’s gentle, almost inviting. Makes it really easy to keep sipping.
Then there are the orange notes, which come through with a fresh, citrusy lift. I get both the sweet and that slightly bitter side of the fruit.
That mix keeps the flavor from getting too heavy or dull. The citrus makes the cocktail feel refreshing, even with all that spice going on.
The gin honestly ties everything together. Its herbal character blends nicely with the clove and orange, adding a crisp edge.
The finish is smooth, with just a light warmth that lingers for a bit. It’s subtle but definitely there.
As I keep sipping, the flavors shift around. At first, the orange jumps out, then the clove kind of builds up, and finally, the gin’s botanicals round things off.
This balance makes the drink feel layered, but not fussy or overcomplicated. I really appreciate that.
