The Gingerbread Martini

Commercially prepared versions of the gingerbread syrup is available at specialty food and drink stores, usually in the coffee isle, but the homemade version is much easier than searching for it.

Ingredients for the Gingerbread Syrup:

3/4 cup water
3/4 cup sugar
3/4 (2-inch) piece fresh ginger, coarsely chopped
2 sticks of cinnamon
3 whole cloves

Directions:

1. Simmer water, sugar, ginger, cloves and cinnamon stirring occasionally, until reduced to about 3/4 cup, about 15 minutes.

2. Pour hot syrup through a fine sieve and chill.

3. Let stand 20 minutes until using, so all sediment has settled to the bottom.

The Martini Portion:

ice
2 ounces vodka
1/2 to 1 ounce gingerbread syrup

Directions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.

2. Add the vodka and gingerbread syrup.

3. Cover and shake vigorously until combined and chilled, about 30 seconds.

4. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.