Tequila Bee's Knees Recipe

There's something irresistibly bright and refreshing about a Tequila Bee’s Knees on a warm afternoon. With its smooth citrus zing, floral honey notes, and a clean tequila backbone, this cocktail is a stunning twist on a Prohibition-era classic.

I discovered this version during a weekend brunch experiment, swapping out gin for tequila in the traditional Bee’s Knees. One sip, and I knew it was a keeper—elegant enough for guests, but easy enough to make any time.

This modern riff offers a fresh spin for tequila lovers looking to elevate their cocktail game. Let’s dive into why this simple sipper deserves a permanent spot in your rotation.

Why You'll Love This Tequila Bee’s Knees

If you’re a fan of bright, smooth, not-too-sweet cocktails, the Tequila Bee’s Knees will hit all the right notes. It’s an instant crowd-pleaser that balances sharp citrus with soft honey and the earthy warmth of agave.

It’s incredibly easy to make. With just three main ingredients and a quick shake, this cocktail is ready in under five minutes. No complicated infusions or hard-to-find ingredients—just pour, shake, and strain.

It’s a budget-friendly upgrade. Swapping gin for tequila creates a totally new flavor profile without requiring any new tools or specialty mixers. Just a bottle of your favorite tequila blanco and pantry staples will do the trick.

It’s naturally refined and low in sugar. Honey syrup adds just the right touch of sweetness without any artificial flavors, making it a great choice for those who want a cocktail that feels fresh and balanced.

Perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting brunch, celebrating a milestone, or just winding down after work, this cocktail works year-round and feels just a little fancy without being fussy.

Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s become my go-to “house cocktail” for effortless entertaining.

Ingredients Notes

The charm of this Tequila Bee’s Knees lies in its clean simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in balancing sweet, tart, and smooth elements.

Let’s start with the tequila. I highly recommend a blanco tequila, which has a fresh, clean agave flavor that plays beautifully with the citrus and honey. Avoid aged tequilas (reposado or añejo) for this drink, as their oaky notes can overpower the delicate sweetness.

Next comes the honey syrup. You’ll want to make this by combining equal parts honey and hot water, then stirring until fully dissolved. This ensures it blends smoothly into the cocktail rather than clumping up like straight honey sometimes does.

The third pillar is fresh lemon juice. Bottled lemon juice simply won’t deliver the same brightness or aroma. For the best results, squeeze the juice just before making the drink—it makes a huge difference.

If you’re feeling fancy, a few drops of orange blossom water or a lemon twist garnish can elevate the aroma and presentation without much effort.

You’ll also need a cocktail shaker and fine mesh strainer. The shaking process helps emulsify the honey syrup and chills the drink quickly, while straining keeps the texture silky-smooth in the glass.

How To Make This Tequila Bee’s Knees

Making this cocktail is as easy as it is elegant. Here’s exactly how to bring it together like a pro.

Start by preparing your honey syrup. Mix 1 tablespoon of honey with 1 tablespoon of hot water and stir until completely dissolved. Let it cool slightly while you juice your lemon.

Fill your cocktail shaker with ice, then pour in 2 oz blanco tequila, ¾ oz fresh lemon juice, and ¾ oz honey syrup. The ice should come up just below the lip of the shaker.

Seal the shaker and give it a vigorously good shake—about 15 seconds—until the outside of the shaker feels icy cold. This chills the cocktail and gives it that ultra-refreshing mouthfeel.

Place a fine mesh strainer over your coupe or Nick & Nora glass, and strain the cocktail in. This catches any ice shards or pulp from the lemon juice, leaving you with a crisp, clean presentation.

Optional but recommended: garnish with a thin lemon wheel, lemon twist, or a small edible flower if you’re serving it for a special occasion. It’s a small touch that adds visual flair.

From start to finish, you’re looking at no more than 5 minutes, making it a go-to choice when you want something impressive and delicious in a flash.

Storage Options

Because of the fresh lemon juice, the Tequila Bee’s Knees is best enjoyed immediately after mixing. It doesn’t store well once shaken, as the citrus will lose its brightness and the cocktail may separate.

That said, you can prepare components in advance. Store your honey syrup in an airtight container in the fridge—it’ll stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.

If you're batching for a party, you can combine the tequila, lemon juice, and honey syrup in a sealed jar and chill it in the fridge. Just give it a shake over ice and strain when ready to serve. Use within 24 hours for best flavor.

To re-chill leftovers (if you have any!), add ice and shake again before serving. Avoid freezing the cocktail, as it may dull the flavors.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this cocktail? It’s a template you can build on. Here are some of my favorite variations to keep things interesting.

Try a smoky twist by using mezcal instead of tequila. The honey and lemon provide a beautiful contrast to the bold, smoky notes of mezcal, making for a cocktail with extra depth.

Use orange juice instead of lemon for a softer, sweeter version. This variation leans toward a margarita-meets-brunch vibe, and it’s perfect for daytime sipping.

Add herbs like rosemary or thyme by infusing them into your honey syrup. Just simmer a sprig with the honey and water, let it steep for 10 minutes, and strain before using. It adds a lovely botanical layer.

Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne or a few slices of jalapeño in the shaker. Tequila and heat are a natural pairing, and the honey helps mellow things out.

If you’re looking for a mocktail version, skip the tequila and replace it with a splash of soda water or non-alcoholic spirit. The honey and lemon still shine beautifully on their own.

Feel free to make this drink your own. Once you’ve mastered the base, it’s easy to play with the ingredients and create your own signature twist.

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