When I’m craving a quick drink at home, I almost always go for simple recipes. My 3-ingredient Ginger Snap Cocktail is ridiculously easy, and honestly, it’s got that sweet, spicy, and refreshing flavor that just works.
You barely need anything fancy, so if you’re not into tracking down a dozen bottles, this one’s a winner.
I like sharing this recipe because it’s a twist on classic 3-ingredient cocktails, but it somehow feels a bit more special. It’s great for a couple friends or just winding down after a long day.
That mix of ginger, some booze, and a splash of citrusy brightness keeps it interesting from start to finish. If you’re into bold flavors with barely any fuss, this is one to try.
Ginger Snap Cocktail Recipe (3-Ingredient Only)
It’s just three ingredients, but the flavor really pops thanks to the ginger. I keep the steps as straightforward as possible—no need to overthink it.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker — I use this for a good mix and to chill everything quickly.
- Jigger or small measuring cup — Helps me keep the flavors balanced.
- Strainer — Keeps the ice and any bits out when I pour.
- Short glass (like an old-fashioned glass) — Looks nice, feels right in your hand.
- Spoon or stir stick — If you don’t have a shaker, just stir it up.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces vanilla vodka — Adds a smooth, sweet note.
- 3 ounces ginger beer — I always go for ginger beer over ginger ale; it’s got more bite and fizz.
- 1 ounce coffee liqueur — It’s richer than you’d expect, and the spice plays well with ginger.
Sometimes I’ll throw in a cinnamon stick or a pinch of nutmeg if I’m feeling extra.
Instructions
- Fill your shaker with ice. Cold drinks just taste better, right?
- Pour in the vanilla vodka, coffee liqueur, and ginger beer.
- Close and shake for 10 seconds or so, until the shaker feels frosty.
- Strain into your glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish with candied ginger, a cinnamon stick, or honestly, just skip it if you’re lazy.
Notes
If I can’t find ginger beer, ginger ale will do, though it’s not quite as punchy. I usually reach for Kahlúa or Tia Maria—both blend nicely with the other flavors.
Flavored vodka makes a difference; plain vodka just kind of disappears in this. If you like it sweeter, a splash of simple syrup does the trick, but most of the time, the liqueur and ginger beer are sweet enough.
It’s fast to make, even if you’re doing a round for friends or just one for yourself. If you want it lighter, use more ginger beer and less vodka.
The main thing is to get everything nice and cold. I always use fresh ice and give it a good shake or stir.
Equipment
- Jigger or small measuring cup
- Old-fashioned glass or short tumbler
- Spoon or stir stick
Ingredients
- 2 oz vanilla vodka
- 3 oz ginger beer chilled
- 1 oz coffee liqueur like Kahlúa or Tia Maria
- Ice for shaking and serving
- Optional garnish: cinnamon stick candied ginger, or a dusting of nutmeg
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add 2 oz vanilla vodka, 1 oz coffee liqueur, and 3 oz ginger beer.
- Shake gently for about 10 seconds (or stir if your ginger beer is very fizzy).
- Strain into a short glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with candied ginger or a cinnamon stick, if desired.
- Sip and enjoy the sweet-spicy balance!
Tasting Notes
The first thing I notice when I take a sip? That spicy ginger bite. It’s got a little zing, but it’s not going to knock you over.
It’s balanced—there’s sweetness, but it’s not cloying, and the ginger gives it a warm, cozy vibe. Kind of reminds me of gingerbread, just lighter and more sippable.
The smell is nostalgic, a little like fresh ginger snaps—sweet and spicy at the same time.
Each sip goes down smooth. There’s no sticky aftertaste, which I appreciate.
If you’re into drinks with a little heat and a touch of sweetness, I really think you’ll like this one. It’s cozy, but not fussy—just the way I like it.
Substitute
Sometimes I just don’t have the right ingredient, or honestly, I’m just curious to see what happens if I switch things up.
Here are a few easy swaps I like for the Ginger Snap Cocktail.
Ingredients:
- Out of ginger beer? I’ll grab ginger ale instead—it’s lighter, but still tasty.
- No vodka on hand? Rum or gin works, too, depending on my mood.
- If I’m in the mood for something a little fruitier, pomegranate juice is a fun twist. It brings a pop of color and a whole new flavor vibe.
Instructions:
- I usually pour everything in the same order as the original recipe, just swapping in my substitutes.
- For the pomegranate version, I go with equal parts pomegranate juice instead of the fruit juice it calls for.
- Sometimes I’ll taste and realize it needs a touch more sweetness, so I’ll add a little honey or agave syrup.
Equipment:
- Shaker or stirring glass
- Jigger or measuring cup
- Strainer
- Serving glass
