If you’re looking for a cocktail that’s elegant but super easy, this is it.
The pear and elderflower flavors are soft and floral, with just enough tart lemon to keep things bright.
It feels fancy but takes no time.
This is the drink I make when I want something refreshing but still a little special—like a grown-up treat that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
What You’ll Need
- 2 oz pear vodka
- 1 oz elderflower liqueur (like St-Germain)
- 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
- Ice cubes
- Thin pear slice or sprig of thyme for garnish (optional)
Why I Love This Recipe
This martini became one of my go-to cocktails after a trip to London where every bar seemed to have a floral twist on a classic drink. I loved how smooth and not-too-sweet it was, and how that subtle elderflower flavor lingered after each sip.
- It’s quick—less than 5 minutes from start to pour
- The flavors feel fancy without being fussy
- You don’t need a ton of ingredients or any weird bar tools
- It’s perfect for brunches, book clubs, or solo nights in
Makes: 1 serving
Time: 5 minutes
Macros (approximate):
- Calories: 170
- Carbs: 8g
- Sugar: 6g
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 0g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Pear vodka brings a light fruit base. Elderflower liqueur is floral and sweet—just enough to balance the sharpness of the lemon juice. That acid cuts through the sweetness, keeping the drink refreshing. Shaking it with ice chills everything fast and gives it that gorgeous, slightly frothy finish from the lemon.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh lemon juice—bottled just won’t taste the same
- Chill your glass ahead of time to keep the drink crisp
- Shake hard and fast for 10–15 seconds to get it icy cold
- A thin pear slice makes a simple, classy garnish
- Don’t overdo the lemon—too much kills the floral notes
Tools You’ll Need
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger or measuring spoon
- Bar spoon
- Fine mesh strainer (optional)
- Martini or coupe glass
Substitutions and Variations
- No pear vodka? Use regular vodka + 1/4 oz pear nectar
- No elderflower liqueur? Try a splash of lychee liqueur or white grape juice for a non-alcoholic twist
- Add a splash of prosecco for a bubbly version
- Swap lemon for lime for a brighter citrus kick
Make-Ahead Tips
You can mix the vodka, elderflower liqueur, and lemon juice in a small jar and keep it chilled (without ice) for up to a day. Shake with ice right before serving.
How to Make a Pear & Elderflower Martini
Step 1: Add 2 oz pear vodka to shaker with ice
Pour 2 oz pear vodka into a cocktail shaker filled halfway with ice cubes.
Step 2: Add 1 oz elderflower liqueur
Pour in 1 oz elderflower liqueur. It should float beautifully over the vodka for a second before mixing.
Step 3: Add 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
Squeeze and measure 0.75 oz of fresh lemon juice and add it to the shaker.
Step 4: Shake it well
Seal the shaker and shake vigorously for 15 seconds until it’s icy cold and the outside gets frosty.
Step 5: Strain into chilled glass and garnish
Strain the martini into a chilled glass. Garnish with a thin pear slice or a sprig of thyme if using.
Leftovers & Storage
This drink is best fresh. If you have leftover mix (without ice), you can keep it chilled in a sealed jar for up to 24 hours. Shake with fresh ice before serving.
Common Mistakes
- Using bottled lemon juice—it changes the whole flavor
- Not shaking hard enough—leads to a warm or flat-tasting drink
- Skipping the garnish—it adds aroma and a touch of elegance
- Overfilling your shaker—stick to one serving at a time for best chill
What to Serve With
- A soft goat cheese crostini
- Prosciutto-wrapped pears
- Light shrimp skewers
- Brie with honey and crackers
- Mini cucumber sandwiches
FAQ
Can I make this non-alcoholic?
Yes! Use pear nectar + elderflower cordial and top with sparkling water.
Is this very sweet?
Not overly. The lemon balances it out so it’s light and fresh.
What type of pear vodka should I use?
Any brand you like—Absolut, Grey Goose, and Hangar 1 all make good options.
Can I batch this for a party?
Totally! Just multiply everything by the number of servings and mix it in a pitcher. Shake with ice before serving each one.
That’s It!
This martini is a little bit classy, a little bit cozy, and a lot delicious. Give it a try and let me know how yours turned out in the comments. Cheers!
