This cocktail recipe is just what the name says it is- the Bees Knees! Combining gin, honey syrup, and lemon juice, it is the perfect combination of lightly sweet, tart, and clean, making it a lovely cocktail that tastes like sunshine.

two glasses of bees knees cocktail with honey syrup and lemon twist garnish

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The common saying “Bees Knees” describes something outstanding or cool, and perfectly describes this classic, Prohibition-era cocktail. Its elements combine delightfully for a simple cocktail you can make and enjoy right at home.

Bees Knees Cocktail Ingredients

It won’t take long to mix up a Bees Knees cocktail for yourself AND one for a friend. Here are the three simple ingredients that make up the drink. For the measurements of each ingredient, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

Honey syrup: Read more on this ingredient and the reason we use it below.
Gin: Use a good-quality gin that you enjoy the flavor of. My go-to for gin cocktails is Bombay Saphire.
Lemon juice: Adds a refreshing citrus touch to the cocktail that complements the other ingredients. Freshly squeezed is always best when making cocktails so we recommend grabbing some fresh lemons for this recipe.

two glasses of bees knees cocktail with lemon and honey syrup

Homemade Honey Simple Syrup

Honey Simple Syrup mixes better in cold liquids compared to straight honey, making it the perfect sweetener for cocktails like this one. It is made with just honey and water, but simmering the mixture to create a simple syrup will dissolve into cocktails and can be stored in your refrigerator for a whole month. It can be used to add a touch of sweetness to any cocktail, but we especially love it in this Bees Knees cocktail recipe and the Gold Rush Cocktail.