Family Tradition

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For many families, the holidays aren’t just about the decorations or the dinners—they’re about the rituals that bring everyone together. And for mine, a great cocktail always plays a part.

That’s exactly what inspired the Family Tradition Cocktail—a cozy, apple-and-pear sipper that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.

This drink has become one of my favorite go-tos for gatherings, not just during the holidays but throughout the colder months.

Whether you’re hosting game night, catching up with relatives, or just enjoying a quiet evening with friends, this cocktail brings that same comforting, celebratory vibe with every sip.

The best part? It’s beautifully simple—just vodka, apple cider, pear purée, and a dash of cinnamon simple syrup. The combination is crisp, subtly sweet, and gently spiced… like a warm hug in cocktail form.

To make the pear purée, I use canned pears in syrup—just blend until smooth. If you’re prepping ahead, go ahead and strain the purée before storing it in the fridge. But if you’re mixing drinks right away, you can skip that step—we’ll strain the cocktail when we pour.

The vodka adds a clean, strong foundation, while the apple cider brings bright autumn flavor.

The pear purée makes everything feel soft and fragrant, and the cinnamon syrup ties it all together with a cozy, spiced finish. It’s a balanced, easygoing cocktail that feels familiar but elevated.

I love to serve it in a coupe glass, garnished with a fresh pear slice. Not only does it look beautiful, but it adds a touch of elegance that makes the moment feel a little more special.

Step 1: Make pear puree. Blend contents of 1 can of pears until smooth.

Step 2: Add the ingredients in a shaker topped with ice. Shake until chilled.⁠

Step 3: Strain into glass.

Step 4: Garnish and enjoy!

Whether you’re continuing old traditions or starting new ones, this is a cocktail that fits right in. The Family Tradition Cocktail is easy to make, lovely to sip, and just the kind of drink that turns a gathering into a memory.