White Christmas (Coconut Gin)

We all love a snowy white Christmas but, let’s be honest, a warm beach Christmas does not sound bad either! This recipe is secretly a combination of both! Made with cinnamon-anise syrup, tropical coconut milk and garnished with toasted coconut, yes, this recipe is the perfect balance of a snowy day with the scent of paradise!

Cinnamon-Anise Syrup

No lie, this is probably my favorite simple syrup to make. Especially during the cold months as I am always making something cozy that requires some sort of cinnamon flavor.

Ingredients

• 1/2 C water
• 1/2 C sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 anise stars

Directions

1. In a saucepan, over medium heat, bring your water and sugar to simmer and stir until sugar dissolves, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and add your cinnamon stick and anise stars. Let sit for about an hour.
3. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve and place in fridge for up to 4 weeks.

Toasted Coconut Shavings

Ingredients

• Shredded, flaked, or shaved coconut

Directions

1. Place desired amount of coconut in medium pan.
2. Toast over medium-low heat until golden brown.
3. Once done, remove from pan into a small bowl to avoid additional cooking and/or burning.

Ingredients

• 2 oz gin
• 2 Tbsp So Delicious CocoWhip (or coconut milk)
• 3/4 oz cinnamon-anise syrup (see above)
• 1/2 oz lemon juice
• Toasted coconut shavings, to top with (see above)

DIRECTIONS

1. Add all the ingredients, except coconut shavings, into a shaker with ice and shake until well chilled
2. Strain into a chilled glass with ice
3. Garnish with coconut shavings and serve immediately

Note

I find using CocoWhip makes the drink smooth and creamy. If you would like to make your own coconut whip, simply whisk full-fat coconut milk, powdered sugar, and vanilla in a chilled bowl until light and small peaks form. Goes great with pies too!