Don’s Gardenia Mix is a syrup mixer that’s used in some tiki cocktails like the Pearl Diver. Relax: it doesn’t contain any gardenias. This is indeed a complicated syrup, although it’s not that hard to make. Don’s Gardenia Mix is a syrup that has been specifically crafted for tiki cocktails. Created by legendary tiki mixologist Don the Beachcomber, this syrup is an essential component of many classic and modern tiki recipes.  And honestly, it’s going to sound wacky. It’s made from a combination of honey, butter, cinnamon, vanilla, and other spices, so it adds depth and complexity to any drink.

Servings: 1 bottle

INGREDIENTS

1 ounce honey
1 ounce unsalted butter
1 teaspoon cinnamon infused simple syrup (see notes)
1/2 teaspoon allspice liqueur
1/2 teaspoon vanilla syrup

STEPS

1) Get a mixing bowl.

2) Into it, put the honey, butter, cinnamon syrup, vanilla syrup and allspice liqueur.

3) With a hand mixer, whip it until it’s creamy.

NOTES

Make cinnamon syrup like you would make regular simple syrup, except you add two cinnamon sticks to it to infuse their flavor.