Cocktails Archives - A Well Seasoned Kitchen

Brandy Alexander with Ice Cream

Lee Clayton Roper — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 19:16:00 +0000

Frozen Brandy Alexanders with Ice Cream are a memorable, fun and elegant dessert that I’ve been making for years. Traditional brandy Alexander ingredients of brandy and creme de cacao are turned into into a frosty cocktail by swapping out the cream for ice cream. My friends and family love my version of this creamy, sophisticated dessert drink so much that Robert and I served them at our wedding reception!

(Note: this is an older post from 2016 that was significantly updated in 2023.)

This post contains referral links for products I recommend. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission on qualified purchases, at no cost to you.

What is a Brandy Alexander?

Brandy Alexanders are a classic cocktail that’s been around for years, and is a creamy drink comprised of only three ingredients – equal parts of brandy, crème de cacao, and heavy cream.

As the name indicates, the foundation of this timeless luxurious cocktail is brandy, a distilled spirit derived from grapes or other fermented fruit. Its complex flavor profile, ranging from fruity to floral to spicy, adds depth and character to the drink.

However, rich, velvety crème de cacao, a chocolate liqueur, is really the star ingredient, with its subtle chocolatey undertones. There are two varieties of crème de cacao, dark and white, and either can be used in a Brandy Alexander. – it’s personal preference. Dark crème de cacao provides a deeper, richer chocolate flavor and darker color to the cocktail, while white crème de cacao imparts a bit lighter, more delicate chocolate taste.

Brief History of the Brand Alexander Cocktail

The exact origins of the Brandy Alexander are somewhat ambiguous, but most sources point to the early 1900s as its time of creation. While there are various theories surrounding its specific history, it’s widely believed to have become popular in the aftermath of Prohibition, when spirits like brandy became more readily available.

One popular theory attributes the cocktail to New York City bartender Troy Alexander, who was said to have created it at Rector’s restaurant, as a tribute to a successful advertising campaign. The story goes that the drink was named after him, adding “brandy” to the name so it wouldn’t be confused with existing the gin-based cocktail “Alexander.”

Frozen Brandy Alexander Ingredients

For my frozen version of a Brandy Alexander, you’ll need a total of 5 ingredients:

Vanilla ice cream

Brandy

Creme de cacao (white or dark)

Ice chips (optional)

Ground or grated nutmeg, for garnish

Type of Ice Cream to Use

Use the best quality vanilla ice cream you can find -it’s a key ingredient. I like Graeter’s Vanilla Bean (I find it in my Kroger grocery store), Haagen-Dazs and Breyers Natural Vanilla brands. Note that Breyers is a softer ice cream and will result in a smoother drink. For a milkshake texture, use a denser ice cream like Graeter’s or Haagan-Dazs.

Best Brandy to Use

Given the limited number of ingredients in this recipe, I think it’s important to use good quality ingredients. However, don’t go buy a top drawer brandy! I like the flavor of cognac (a type of brandy) in brandy alexanders. Select a nice, mid-priced cognac. A widely available, affordable French brand that works well in this recipe is St Remy. It technically isn’t a cognac because it’s from a different region in France, but it’s made by the same process, so it tastes similar.

How to Make a Brandy Alexander with Ice Cream

The only equipment you need to make these dessert cocktails is a blender, and here’s all you have to do:

Process ingredients.
Place ice cream, brandy and creme de cacao in a blender and process until mixed.
Add ice (if desired).
Add ice (if using) and process until smooth.
Garnish and serve (or freeze).
Sprinkle top with ground nutmeg and serve immediately, or place in an airtight container and freeze (won’t freeze hard due to the alcohol).

“Yum yum! Made a batch last night for my husband’s birthday and they were a huge hit.”
Carol f.

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Frozen Brandy Alexander Variations

Put a personal spin on your Frozen Brandy Alexanders with one of these variations:

Use chocolate or coffee ice cream instead of vanilla.
Add a splash of vodka for a White Russian-inspired twist.
Garnish with cocoa powder instead of (or in addition to) grated nutmeg.

How to Serve this Brandy Alexander Recipe with Ice Cream

I often serve these Frozen Brandy Alexanders as after-dinner drinks, either alongside or following dessert.

To elevate them from boozy milkshakes to sophisticated dessert cocktails, the right presentation is essential. Opting for martini or coupe glasses is a must-have for that timeless, elegant look and feel. The grated nutmeg garnish is another key element, adding a touch of color and texture. It’s a subtle yet impactful addition that elevates the overall presentation and experience.

And, if the texture of your Frozen Brandy Alexanders is more like a boozy milkshake, you may want to serve them with a small spoon or straw.

Storing this Brandy Alexander Recipe

Frozen Brandy Alexanders can be prepared up to 1 month ahead, packed into an airtight container and frozen. The mixture won’t freeze super hard due to the alcohol content. Let soften for a few minutes, then whirl in a blender until it reaches the desired consistency.

Other Cocktail Recipes to Try

Frozen Brandy Alexander Drink

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5 from 9 reviews

Print Recipe

Prep Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 serving
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

1/2 cup good quality vanilla ice cream
1 1/2 ounces brandy
3/4 ounce creme de cacao – white or dark (see Note below)
1/4 cup crushed ice (optional)
Ground nutmeg, for garnish

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Instructions

Place ice cream, brandy and creme de cacao in a blender and process until mixed.
Add ice (if using) and process until smooth.
Pour into an individual martini or coupe glass. Sprinkle top with ground nutmeg and serve immediately.

Notes

Note on Crème de Cacao: white crème de cacao will provide a lighter, more milk chocolate flavor, while regular will provide a richer, dark chocolate flavor.

Make ahead: Brandy Alexanders can be prepared up to 1 month ahead, packed into an airtight container and frozen. The mixture won’t freeze super hard due to the alcohol content. Let soften for a few minutes, then whirl in a blender until it reaches the desired consistency.

Author: Lee Clayton Roper
Category: cocktails, dessert
Method: blender
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cocktail
Calories: 414
Sugar: 22.1 g
Sodium: 68.4 mg
Fat: 17.5 g
Saturated Fat: 11.2 g
Carbohydrates: 24.1 g
Fiber: 0.1 g
Protein: 3.8 g
Cholesterol: 98.4 mg

Brandy Alexander Recipe Ice Cream FAQs

What does a Brandy Alexander taste like?

A good frozen brandy Alexander will taste creamy, with hints of vanilla (from the ice cream), chocolate (from the creme de cacao) and subtle fruity undertones (from the brandy).

Is brandy a liquor or wine?

Brandy is a liquor (or distilled spirit) that can be made from wine or fermented fruit.

How many calories are in a Brandy Alexander?

A traditional Brandy Alexander made with heavy whipping cream has around 270 calories per serving. This frozen version, that calls for ice cream instead of heavy cream, has 414 calories per serving.

What can I substitute for crème de cacao in a Brandy Alexander?

Good substitutes for crème de cacao are a chocolate liqueur, Kahlua or Baileys. They will change the flavor profile of the drink a bit, but it will still be delicious.

What’s the difference between brandy and cognac?

Cognac is a type (or style) of brandy. Any spirit that’s made from distilled fruit is considered a brandy. Cognac is made specifically from white grapes and must be made in the Cognac region of France.

The post Brandy Alexander with Ice Cream appeared first on A Well Seasoned Kitchen.

Kentucky Derby Mint Julep

Lee Clayton Roper — Fri, 17 Feb 2023 19:41:00 +0000

Looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make bourbon cocktail? Well, look no further than our beloved Kentucky Mint Julep recipe. My family’s version of this classic cocktail has the perfect balance of bourbon, sweetness and minty freshness – making it a favorite among both experienced cocktail enthusiasts and those new to the world of mixology. With our tried-and-true recipe, you’ll be able to easily whip up a crowd-pleasing batch of delicious Mint Juleps.

(Photo by Laurie Smith)

This post contains referral links for products I recommend. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission on qualified purchases, at no cost to you.

What is a Mint Julep?

A Mint Julep is a cocktail that traditionally consists of bourbon whiskey, simple syrup (a mixture of sugar and water), fresh mint leaves and ice (often crushed ice), served in a pewter or silver cup. It’s a popular drink in the Southern United States, particularly in Kentucky, and is the traditional drink of the Kentucky Derby horse race.

Why You’ll Love This Genuine Mint Julep Kentucky Derby Drink

There are many reasons why you’ll love my family’s Mint Julep Kentucky Derby recipe:

It’s a classic cocktail that’s been enjoyed for years and has become the official drink of the Kentucky Derby, an annual horse race held the first Saturday in May in my mother’s home town of Louisville, Kentucky.
It’s easy to make with just a few ingredients and some basic barware. Whether you’re an experienced cocktail enthusiast or new to mixology, you’ll find our recipe is both approachable and versatile.
What sets our Kentucky Mint Julep recipe apart is that, in addition to mixing crushed fresh mint into the cocktail, we add in more mint flavor by infusing it directly into the simple syrup (sugar and water) – resulting in layers of cool, vibrant minty deliciousness. Our recipe has been carefully crafted to strike just the right balance, with a subtle minty sweetness that matches but doesn’t overpower the bold bourbon flavor.

Mint Julep Ingredients

You only need 4 ingredients to make this classic mint julep:

good quality bourbon,
fresh mint,
granulated sugar, and
water.

Which brand of bourbon you use is personal preference. Woodford Reserve is the official bourbon served at the Kentucky Derby and included in their mint juleps (until 2027), so that’s a good option. On the other hand, my mom preferred Jack Daniels (which actually is technically a bourbon, but markets itself as whiskey).

(Photo by Laurie Smith)

How to Make a Mint Julep

Here’s an overview of how to make this refreshing cocktail (details in recipe card below):

Make a simple syrup.
Bring water to a boil; reduce heat to simmer and stir in sugar. Continue cooking, until until sugar dissolves and water is no longer cloudy (doesn’t take very long).
Add mint; let steep.
Stir in mint, crushing mint leaves with your stirring spoon. Remove from heat, cover, let cool and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight (the longer the better) to allow the mint flavor to steep into the syrup.
Assemble cocktails.
Place a few mint leaves in the bottom of each mint julep cup and crush with a muddler (or back of a spoon). Fill each cup with lots of ice (to the top). Add bourbon and mint simple syrup; stir to combine.
Garnish and serve.
Add a fresh mint sprig to each glass and serve.

How to Serve This Kentucky Derby Drink

According to my mom and her brothers, you should always serve a Mint Julep cocktail in a julep cup – a silver or pewter cup that keeps the drink cold. In fact, Mint Julep cups were a popular gift among Southerners for years – my Uncle Dan gave us a monogrammed set as a wedding present (that’s one in these photos).

Mint Julep Drink Storage

To store the minted simple syrup, after 48 hours of steeping in the refrigerator, strain out mint leaves and discard. Place the syrup back in an airtight container and refrigerate; it will last for around 1 month.

(Photo by Laurie Smith)

FAQs for How to Make a Mint Julep

What is the best mint for a mint julep?

I like to use Spearmint in this cocktail – and it’s the standard mint sold in grocery stores. I would avoid using peppermint. According to legendary New Orleans barman Chris McMillian, “the man who would put peppermint into a mint julep would put scorpions into a baby’s bed.”

What bourbon is used in a mint julep?

Which brand of bourbon you use is personal preference. For example, Woodford Reserve is the official bourbon served at the Kentucky Derby and included in their mint juleps (until 2027), so that’s a good option. On the other hand, my mom always used Jack Daniels (which is technically a bourbon, but markets itself as whiskey).

What is the difference between a mojito and mint julep?

While both drinks contain mint and sugar, the rest of the ingredients are different:

– A mint julep calls for bourbon, whereas as mojito is made with rum.
– And, a mint julep is made with simple syrup, while a traditional mojito is made with granulated sugar and club soda.
– A mojito is made with lime juice, and a mint julep has no citrus added.
– A mint julep is garnished with mint, a mojito with a slice of lime.

More Recipes for Race Day

And here are Two Complete Derby Dinner Menus.

Kentucky Derby Mint Julep Recipe

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Print Recipe

Looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail? Look no further than our beloved Kentucky Mint Julep recipe. My family’s version of this classic cocktail has the perfect balance of bourbon, sweetness and minty freshness – making it a favorite among both experienced cocktail enthusiasts and those new to the world of mixology. With our tried-and-true recipe, you’ll be able to easily whip up a crowd-pleasing batch of delicious Mint Juleps.

Prep Time: 2 mins
Chilling time:: 120 minutes
Cook Time: 3 mins
Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
Yield: 12 or more servings

Ingredients

2 cups water
2 cups granulated sugar
1/3 cup + 1/4 cup packed fresh mint leaves, divided use (plus sprigs for garnish)
1 bottle good bourbon (Mom preferred Jack Daniels)
Ice

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Instructions

Make a simple syrup: bring water to a boil; reduce heat to simmer and stir in sugar. Continue cooking, until until sugar dissolves and water is no longer cloudy (doesn’t take very long). Stir in mint, crushing mint leaves with your stirring spoon. Remove from heat, cover, let cool and refrigerate for several hours or overnight (the longer the better) to allow the mint flavor to steep into the syrup.
Place a few mint leaves in the bottom of each mint julep cup, and crush with a muddler (or back of a spoon). Fill each cup with lots of ice (to the top). Add 3 ounces (1/3 cup) of bourbon, 3 to 4 tablespoons of the mint simple syrup (or more to taste).
Add a sprig of fresh mint to each glass and serve.

Notes

Make ahead: Minted simple syrup can be made up to 1 month ahead. To store, after 48 hours of steeping in the refrigerator, strain out the mint leaves and discard. Place syrup back in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will last for around 1 month.

Author: From “A Well-Seasoned Kitchen®” by Sally Clayton and Lee Clayton Roper
Category: cocktails, make ahead
Cuisine: Southern

The post Kentucky Derby Mint Julep appeared first on A Well Seasoned Kitchen.

My 15 Most Popular Posts of 2022

Lee Clayton Roper — Mon, 02 Jan 2023 22:14:10 +0000

As we begin 2023, I thought I would take a look back at 2022 and see which posts you all liked the most – that received the most traffic during the year (measured by the total number of page views and sessions – or active engagements with the page). There’s quite a variety – from cocktails, appetizers and main dishes, to how-to instructions and entertaining tips. Interestingly, most of the top recipes were my “quick and easy” dishes!

Here they are, in order of popularity:

Leftover Pork Quesadillas

Quesadillas are an excellent way to use up leftovers – like these scrumptious Leftover Pork Quesadillas. Cooked pork is combined with sausage, peppers, onion, seasonings and lots of cheese then stuffed inside flour tortillas and sautéed. Crispy on the outside, full of flavor on the inside. You can use just about any leftovers – pork, steak, chicken, shrimp, even chopped vegetables!

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How to make a Vodka Martini with a Twist

With my husband Robert’s unique Vodka Martini recipe, you can surprise and wow your friends and family at your next gathering. He’s become known far and wide for his super popular dry martinis, which call for a special ingredient and no vermouth. They are easy to make – and you can even whip up a batch ahead of time!

Get the recipe

Roasted Salmon Steaks

Roasted Salmon Steaks with a lemon-butter sauce are super quick and easy to prepare, and super delicious, too. Modeled after a recipe my mom created while on a family camping trip in Alaska, it calls for only 6 ingredients, with 5 minutes of prep time. And, the salmon comes out flaky and moist every time! Can also be grilled in foil (see Variation below).

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Sweet and Spicy Bacon Twists

These addictively delicious Spiced Bacon Twists are chewy, crunchy and both sweet and savory. Salty, smoky bacon is dredged in a sweet and spicy brown sugar mixture and then baked until crispy. The resulting bacon has the most wonderful caramel taste, with a bit of zing.

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Baked Olive Cheese Balls

Olive Cheese Balls are a delicious, impressive and crowd-pleasing appetizer. Tangy pimiento-stuffed green olives are baked in a cheesy, flaky crust and served hot. The best part? These little bites of heaven can be prepared up to 1 month ahead, frozen and then heated just before serving.

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Frozen Brandy Alexander with Ice Cream

Frozen Brandy Alexanders with Ice Cream are a memorable, fun and elegant dessert that I’ve been making for years. Traditional brandy Alexander ingredients of brandy and creme de cacao are turned into into a frosty milkshake by swapping out the cream for ice cream.

Get the recipe

Kentucky Hot Brown Recipe

Kentucky Hot Browns are pure comfort food – an open-faced turkey sandwich topped with sliced tomatoes, bubbly cheese sauce and crispy bacon. Mom added unique touches to the original hot brown recipe – yellow Cheddar cheese and sliced ham – making our family’s version unique, and we think even more tasty. Note that the recipe can easily be scaled up or down, depending on desired portion size as well as number of portions.

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Quick Pappardelle with Mushrooms and Eggplant

A super easy pasta dish to prepare on a busy day, Quick Eggplant and Mushroom Pappardelle from my husband Robert is a crowd-pleaser! A bit sweet, a bit spicy, a bit earthy – it has a mouth-watering combination of flavors.

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Braising Chicken Breasts

Braised chicken breasts are tender, moist and flavorful. You can use virtually any form of liquid – dry sherry, dry white wine, broth, water – even tomato juice will work. Similarly, you can add in seasonings to your taste. In the ingredient list below, I keep it simple and just add a bay leaf. You could also toss it sprigs of fresh parsley, thyme, cilantro, rosemary, basil, etc. And, you can add some chopped vegetables (onion, garlic, carrot, celery) too!

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Overnight Caramel Rolls with Frozen Bread Dough (AKA Monkey Bread)

Overnight Bundt Caramel Rolls are easy to prepare, oo-ey, goo-ey, cinnamon-y bites of moist deliciousness! Not only do they take only about 5 minutes to prepare, you make them the night before, and pop them in the oven the next morning around 35-45 minutes before serving. Easy enough for everyday, elegant enough for special occasions and entertaining!

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How to Butterfly a Chicken Breast

Butterfly Chicken Breast Butterflying a boneless chicken breast can be quick and easy – just follow my step by step instructions! I love to cook chicken because it’s so versatile, and always have a few breasts in the freezer. Now, is it just me, or are chicken breast halves getting larger and larger these days?

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10 Easy Tips for Planning a Dinner Party Menu

Menu Planning for Hosting a Dinner Party People often tell me they think the most difficult part of entertaining is determining what to serve. Growing up in a household with dinner parties once a week – sometimes even more often! – I learned a lot from my mom, the consummate hostess. Over the years, I’ve

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Mexican Beans and Rice with Chicken

Mexican Chicken Black Beans and Rice is a quick and easy casserole that takes minutes to prepare and is guaranteed to please!

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Pistachio Crusted Fish

Flavorful, moist and flaky, Pistachio Crusted Fish comes together quickly (less than 20 mins.) with just 5 ingredients. Brown sugar and chopped pistachios form a luscious crunchy topping, dill adds a warm, slightly grassy tone, and lemon juice provides tangy added moisture. Altogether, this delectable, no-breadcrumb topping provides the ideal texture and flavor pairing for a mild, slightly sweet fish like sea bass.

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Ginger Lemon Whiskey Drink

Bourbon cocktail mixed with a rosemary-infused honey simple syrup, lemon juice, and ginger. YUM!

Get the recipe

The post My 15 Most Popular Posts of 2022 appeared first on A Well Seasoned Kitchen.

Lime Blackberry Martini

Lee Clayton Roper — Fri, 03 Dec 2021 23:06:07 +0000

Elegant, sophisticated and alluring, a Lime Blackberry Martini is the perfect specialty cocktail for your next special gathering. After all, there’s nothing like a crisp, cool vodka martini to kick off the cocktail hour. Add in fresh, tangy blackberry lime purée, replace the vermouth with a jigger of ginger liqueur, and it becomes both beautiful and enticing. Not only does the resulting Blackberry Vodka Martini have the perfect balance of sweet and tang, its deep, dark purple color adds an aura of mystery when served!

This post contains referral links for products I recommend. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission on qualified purchases, at no cost to you.

Blackberry Martini with Vodka and Lime

Martinis are timeless, elegant and sophisticated – and when I’m enjoying one I feel that way, too. I’m not sure why. Maybe it has to do with watching the incredibly handsome and sexy Sean Connery as James Bond frequently sipping one. Or maybe it’s the sleek, distinctive looking glass, with that long, slim stem. Pick one up, and you can’t help but feel pretty, classy, alluring.

While my favorite martini is my husband Robert’s Vodka Martini with a Twist, sometimes I want something a bit different. Recently I taught a virtual cooking class to a private group and the organizers requested I include a recipe for a new “specialty” cocktail. This Blackberry Vodka Martini was born.

Tools needed to make this Blackberry Lime Vodka Cocktail

There’s just a few tools you’ll need to make this martini:

Recommended tools to make Blackberry Lime Purée

Lemon/lime squeezer – this handy tool will help you easily and efficiently juice fresh limes.
OXO measuring beakers – these beakers are a favorite of mine for small liquid measurements.
Saucepan – needed to to cook the blackberries, honey and lime juice.
Fine mesh strainer – a necessary utensil to strain the cooked and cooled blackberry mixture. Straining the purée results in a smoother, cleaner martini.

Recommended tools to make the Blackberry Martini with Vodka

Cocktail shaker – I’m a big fan (as is my husband Robert) of shaking the ingredients in this Blackberry Martini to ensure they’re well blended and chilled.
Separate cocktail strainer – Often the strainers built into shakers don’t tend to work very well – and don’t let the ice crystals flow through to the glass.

How to Make Blackberry Lime Purée

Here’s the easy steps involved in making the Blackberry Lime Purée that’s a central ingredient to this martini recipe:

Combine ingredients.
Place blackberries, honey, lime juice and water in a medium saucepan.
Cook.
Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes or until berries are very tender.
Cool.
Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.
Strain.
Place a fine mesh strainer over a medium mixing bowl. Press berries and their juice through the strainer to remove the solids. Place strained purée in a covered jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Refrigerate.
Place strained purée in a covered jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

How To Make a Blackberry Martini with Lime

Once you’ve made the Blackberry Lime Purée you’re almost done! Here’s the last few steps to finish:

Prep shaker.
Fill a cocktail shaker around halfway with ice.
Add ingredients.
Add 1/2 cup Blackberry Lime Purée, vodka, ginger liqueur and splash lime juice.
Shake.
Shake vigorously to mix. Taste; add more lime juice as needed.
Strain and pour.
Carefully strain into 2 martini or coupe glasses.
Garnish and serve.
Garnish with lime slices and serve.

Dishes to serve with a Blackberry Lime Vodka Martini

Here are my favorite appetizers to serve with this cocktail:

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Lime Blackberry Martini

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 2 reviews

Print Recipe

Elegant, sophisticated and alluring, a Lime Blackberry Martini is the perfect specialty cocktail for your next special gathering. Vodka, blackberry lime purée, and ginger liqueur are combined together in this beautiful and alluring cocktail.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Purée cooling time: 35 mins
Cook Time: 20
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Blackberry Lime Purée (Yield = 2/3 to 3/4 cup)

2 boxes (12 ounces total) fresh blackberries (can also use frozen)
3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons water

Blackberry Lime Martini

1/2 cup Blackberry Lime Purée
2/3 cup (5 1/2 ounces) good quality vodka
1/4 cup (2 ounces) ginger liqueur
Splash fresh lime juice, to taste

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Instructions

Blackberry Lime Purée

Place blackberries, honey, lime juice and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes or until berries are very tender.
Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.
Place a fine mesh strainer over a medium mixing bowl. Press berries and their juice through the strainer to remove the solids.
Place strained purée in a covered jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Blackberry Lime Martini

Fill a cocktail shaker around halfway with ice.
Add 1/2 cup Blackberry Lime Purée, vodka, ginger liqueur and splash lime juice.
Shake vigorously to mix. Taste; add more lime juice as needed.
Carefully strain into 2 martini or coupe glasses.
Garnish with lime slices and serve.

Notes

Make ahead: Blackberry Purée can be prepared up to 2 days ahead, covered and refrigerated. It can also be frozen in a sealed container for up to 1 month.

Author: Lee Clayton Roper
Category: Cocktails, martinis
Method: stovetop, shaken
Cuisine: American

The post Lime Blackberry Martini appeared first on A Well Seasoned Kitchen.

Cosmopolitan Drink Recipe

Lee Clayton Roper — Sun, 26 Jul 2020 23:57:19 +0000

Cool and refreshing, a Cosmopolitan Martini is the perfect treat on a warm summer day. With their pale pink color, Cosmos (as they are called for short) just look like summer in a glass! Developed with input from experienced bartenders around the world, my Cosmopolitan recipe is time tested to be perfect, every time.

Cosmopolitan Martini pictured with (left) Derby Day Mint Julep and (right) Perfect Sidecar Cocktail. Photo by Laurie Smith.

This post contains referral links for products I recommend. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission on qualified purchases, at no cost to you.

What Does a Cosmopolitan Taste Like?

I first started drinking Cosmopolitan Martinis back in the 1990s, when they became famous thanks to the HBO TV series Sex in the City. They are so pretty – a pale pink cloud inside a sophisticated stemmed martini glass. And, with a garnish of green lime, I felt like I was back on Martha’s Vineyard, where I spent a summer during college. (All those bright pink and green summer dresses!) They are the perfect summer drink – cool, clean, fresh tasting, with a perfect balance of tart and fruity overtones.

Photo by Laurie Smith

How I Found the Perfect Recipe for Cosmopolitan Cocktail

When I first started drinking Cosmos, as they are called for short, I discovered that occasionally they didn’t look – or taste – quite right. Sometimes, they were a darker red, and sweeter. Other times a bit sharp and bite-y. So, I started talking to bartenders about their classic Cosmopolitan recipes. As I was traveling a lot on business at the time (1990s), I was able to obtain input from professional mixologists around the country – and in Canada, England and France.

I took all those mixologists’ recipes home and started experimenting. Once I hit on a combination I liked, I tried it out on a few friends, then tweaked the recipe based on their input. Why did it take so much effort for such a simple recipe? Well, because just a slight change in an ingredient – like using Triple Sec instead of Cointreau – has a big impact on the taste. While both liqueurs are orange-flavored, in my opinion Cointreau is smoother and less dry – and therefore better in a Cosmo. (As you may recall, my husband uses Cointreau in his Vodka Martini with a Twist.)

Cosmopolitan (Cocktail) Ingredients

So, in sum, here’s what you’ll need to make this divine cocktail (quantities provided in the recipe card below):

Good quality vodka
Cointreau
Sweetened cranberry juice (like Ocean Spray)
Freshly squeezed lime juice (no substitutes!)
Slice or wedge of fresh lime, for garnish

Photo by Laurie Smith

How to Make a Cosmo Martini

Prep glasses.
Fill martini or coupe glasses with ice water to quickly chill; let stand 1 to 2 minutes. Drain and dry.
Prep shaker.
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes (large cubes won’t melt as quickly as small cubes in the spirits and/or liqueur).
Add ingredients and shake.
Add all ingredients and shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
Strain and pour.
Pour through a cocktail strainer into a chilled martini glass.
Garnish and serve.
Garnish with a slice or wedge of fresh lime.

Tips for making a perfect Cosmo Martini Recipe

These tips come from my husband, who is known far and wide for his wonderful martinis!

Chill your martini glass. You can chill your glasses either by putting them in the freezer or filling them with ice water to quick-chill for 2 to 3 minutes just before using.
Put all the ingredients and a handful of large ice cubes in your shaker and shake vigorously for around 15 seconds. Large cubes won’t melt as quickly as small cubes in the spirits and/or liqueur. Shaking for 15 seconds not only ensures the mixture is very cold, it also forms ice crystals that will then float on top of the martini.
Use a separate cocktail strainer to pour the shaken mixture into your chilled martini glasses. Often the strainers built into shakers don’t tend to work very well – and don’t let the ice crystals flow through to the glass.

Other cocktail recipes you might like:

Cosmo Martini

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 2 reviews

Print Recipe

Cool and refreshing, a Cosmopolitan Martini is the perfect treat on a warm summer day. With their pale pink color, Cosmos (as they are called for short) just look like summer in a glass! Developed with input from experienced bartenders around the world, my Cosmopolitan recipe is time tested to be perfect, every time.

Prep Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 5 mins
Yield: 1 Cosmo
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

3 1/2 tablespoons (1 3/4 ounces) really good vodka
2 tablespoons (1 ounce) Cointreau
2 tablespoons (1 ounce) sweetened cranberry juice (like Ocean Spray)
1 tablespoon (1/2 ounce) freshly squeezed lime juice (no substitutes!)
Slice or wedge of fresh lime, for garnish

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Instructions

Fill martini or coupe glasses with ice water to quickly chill; let stand 1 to 2 minutes. Drain and dry.
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes (large cubes won’t melt as quickly as small cubes in the spirits and/or liqueur).
Add all ingredients and shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
Pour through a cocktail strainer into a chilled martini glass.
Garnish with a slice or wedge of fresh lime.

Author: From “A Well-Seasoned Kitchen®” by Saly Clayton and Lee Clayton Roper
Category: cocktails, drinks
Method: Shaken
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size:
Calories: 244
Sugar: 16.5 g
Sodium: 2.9 mg
Fat: 0.1 g
Saturated Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 18.1 g
Fiber: 0.1 g
Protein: 0.1 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg

Cosmopolitan Drink Recipe FAQs

What’s in a Cosmopolitan Drink?

My recipe calls for only 4 ingredients – good quality vodka (I like Tito’s), Cointreau liqueur, sweetened cranberry juice, and fresh squeezed lime juice.

Also, fresh squeezed lime juice is an absolute must – no substitutions! It adds just the right amount of sharpness to balance the sweet cranberry and Cointreau.

What alcohol is in a Cosmo?

The two alcohols in a Cosmopolitan Martini, or Cosmo, are vodka and Cointreau (or other orange liqueur). While some bartenders follow the original Cosmopolitan recipe created by Toby Cecchini at The Odeon in NYC and use Absolut Citron, I prefer the slightly less citrusy flavor of my version, that doesn’t use a flavored vodka.

What is the best vodka for a Cosmopolitan?

It’s really personal choice. My husband Robert and I like Tito’s – it has a nice flavor and is reasonably priced.

Can this Cosmopolitan Drink Recipe be made in a pitcher?

Yes, you can make these Cosmopolitans in a pitcher. Fill pitcher with ice, add ingredients and stir until well combined – at least 15 seconds. Strain into chilled martini glasses. If there is still some Cosmo mixture left in the pitcher, remove the ice cubes – otherwise they will dilute the mixture.

What is the difference between a Cosmopolitan and a vodka cranberry?

A Vodka Cranberry, also called a Cape Codder or Cape Cod Cocktail, only has the two ingredients – vodka and cranberry. In a Cosmopolitan, orange liqueur (I like to use Cointreau) and fresh lime juice are also added. And, a Cape Codder is served over ice, while a Cosmo is served straight up (no ice).

The post Cosmopolitan Drink Recipe appeared first on A Well Seasoned Kitchen.

Recipe for the Best Vodka Martini with a Twist

Lee Clayton Roper — Sat, 02 May 2020 20:04:11 +0000

What is a Dry Vodka Martini?

Martinis are one of those classic cocktails that never seem to go out of style. The elegant stemmed glass, the pristine clarity of the vodka, and the pop of citrusy color from the lemon zest – all combine together into a deliciously cool, sophistated, iconic drink. Ever since the first time I tried one, vodka martinis have remained one of my favorite cocktails!

In fact, from the time we first started dating, my husband Robert and I have always enjoyed sharing a martini together. Even when we were traveling around the country in our Airstream trailer, Robert often whipped up a scrumptious batch of martinis for us campside. His favorite recipe is his Vodka Martini with a Twist.

Vodka Martini Without Vermouth

These days, we tend to enjoy Robert’s special vodka martinis at home. His secret? Rather than follow the classic vodka martini recipe, he swaps out the dry vermouth for Cointreau (an orange-flavored liqueur)! The result is a scrumptious martini cocktail that is cool, clean, velvety smooth, and not sweet but with very slight fruity overtones.

What is in a Vodka Martini?

The very first martini recipe reportedly called for orange bitters, so Robert’s recipe actually hearkens back to the classic martini’s beginnings! Robert’s famous recipe only includes two ingredients (just like a traditional martini):

5 ounces (about 2/3 cup) high quality vodka
Splash to 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) Cointreau, or other orange flavored liqueur (like Triple Sec). Can also use ginger liqueur.

He prefers to garnish his martinis with a lemon twist (see directions on how to make one below and in the recipe card), but also has olives on hand, in case a guest requests them.

“Robert’s tips are great – best martini I’ve ever made!”
Kevin

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What is the Smoothest Vodka for a Lemon Twist Martini?

One of the keys to a great martini is to use top quality vodka. In general, we prefer Tito’s or a Colorado brand, Silver Tree. When we’re traveling the country in our Airstream trailer, we make a point to seek out and try local craft vodkas. We’ve had fun trying them all!

How to Make a Martini

Here are the easy steps to follow in making a martini:

Prep glasses.
Fill martini or coupe glasses with ice water to quickly chill; let stand 1 to 2 minutes. Drain and dry.
Prep shaker.
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes (large cubes won’t melt as quickly as small cubes in the spirits and/or liqueur).
Add ingredients and shake.
Add vodka and Cointreau and shake vigorously for 10 to 15 seconds.
Strain and pour.
Pour through a cocktail strainer into a chilled martini glass.
Garnish and serve.
Rub a lemon twist around the rim of the glass, then drop it into the martini.

How to Make a Lemon Twist

There are many different ways you can make a lemon twist for a martini. Here is Robert’s preferred method:

Using a vegetable peeler, start near one of a lemon pole and shave downward to get a wide strip of lemon peel. Try to get as little of the white part (the “pith”) as possible, as it’s bitter.
Cut vertically into smaller (1/8-inch thick) pieces.

Quick Tip

Use a separate cocktail strainer to pour the shaken mixture into your chilled martini glasses. Often the strainers built into shakers don’t tend to work very well – and don’t let the ice crystals flow through to the glass.

Robert’s Tips on Making a Perfect Vodka Martini

Here are Robert’s secrets on how to take your martinis from good to great:

Always serve your martinis up – that is, without ice. Martinis are meant to be sipped, and even large ice cubes will melt before you’re done and dilute the flavors.
Chill your martini glasses. You can chill your glasses either by putting them in the freezer or filling them with ice water to quick-chill for 2 to 3 minutes just before using.
Put all the ingredients and a handful of ice cubes in your shaker and shake vigorously for around 10 to 15 seconds. You want it not only to be very cold, but also to form ice crystals that will then float on top of the martini.
Use a separate cocktail strainer to pour the shaken mixture into your chilled martini glasses. Often the strainers built into shakers don’t tend to work very well – and don’t let the ice crystals flow through to the glass.

How to Serve a Dry Vodka Martini

I like to pair Robert’s Vodka Martinis with these appetizers:

Dry Vodka Martini With a Twist FAQs

And, here are answers to martini-related questions I often get asked:

What makes a martini dry?

A martini is considered “dry” if it has very little vermouth; and “very dry” if it has no vermouth. Robert’s martinis have no vermouth, but we don’t call them “very” dry because of the other ingredient he puts in place of the vermouth.

Shaken or stirred?

Well, for the most part it’s personal preference. Robert I like our vodka martinis very cold, so like James Bond, we prefer our martinis shaken. In fact, we have a growing collection of martini shakers – crystal, silver and aluminum.

Olives or a twist for the garnish?

We prefer a lemon twist in our martinis, and I include directions on how to make a lemon twist in the recipe!

What’s the difference between a martini and a vodka martini?

Historically, the name “martini” with no liquor or other ingredient being mentioned, would refer to the original cocktail, which was made with gin and vermouth. If “vodka” is specified in the name, it’s used instead of gin.

Is Vermouth necessary in a martini?

No, vermouth isn’t a required ingredient in a martini.

What is a martini without vermouth called?

It’s called a “very dry” martini.

What is the twist in a martini?

A twist is a small piece of lemon peel, usually 1 to 2 inches in length and very narrow (around 1/8 inch).

Other Martini Recipes to Try

More favorites from A Well-Seasoned Kitchen

Dry Vodka Martini with a Twist

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5 from 9 reviews

Print Recipe

Prep Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 martini
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

5 ounces (about 2/3 cup) good quality vodka
Splash to 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) Cointreau, or other orange flavored liqueur. Can also use ginger liqueur
Lemon twist – see directions in Notes section

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Instructions

Fill martini or coupe glasses with ice water to quickly chill; let stand 1 to 2 minutes. Drain and dry.
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes (large cubes won’t melt as quickly as small cubes in the spirits and/or liqueur).
Add vodka and Cointreau and shake vigorously for 10 to 15 seconds.
Pour through a cocktail strainer into a chilled martini glass.
Rub a lemon twist around the rim of the glass, then drop it into the martini.

Notes

How to make a lemon twist: . Using a vegetable peeler, start near one of a lemon pole and shave downward to get a wide strip of lemon peel. Try to get as little of the white part (the “pith”) as possible, as it’s bitter. Cut vertically into smaller (1/8-inch thick) pieces.

Author: From “Fresh Tastes” By Lee Clayton Roper
Category: cocktails, quick and easy, make ahead
Method: shaken
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 glassful
Calories: 438
Sugar: 12.5 g
Sodium: 2.9 mg
Fat: 0.1 g
Saturated Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 12.5 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 0 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg

The post Recipe for the Best Vodka Martini with a Twist appeared first on A Well Seasoned Kitchen.

11 Stellar New Year’s Cocktails

Lee Clayton Roper — Mon, 30 Dec 2019 17:19:04 +0000

New Year’s Eve is a time to recognize our successes from this past year, as well as set goals for the next year. And, there’s no better way to celebrate than with our loved ones. Robert and I like to have a special cocktail as part of our festivities. And, it’s not too late to decide on a featured cocktail to enjoy as part of your celebration. Here are 11 of our favorites for you to choose from, featuring a variety of liquors and styles. One is frozen and another served warm, too!

Note: this post has been updated, adding even more scrumptious cocktails!

A Delicious Champagne Cocktail

A great alternative to the traditional mimosa, this recipe perfectly complements brunch, special occasion, and of course, New Year’s Eve celebrations. And with only four ingredients, it’s a snap to put together!

Get the recipe

How to make a Vodka Martini with a Twist

Get the recipe

Pomegranate Martini Recipe with Vodka

My Pomegranate Martini (or Red Carpet Martini) is elegant, colorful, delicious – and perfect for Oscar night viewing! It’s also easy to prepare, calling for only 4 ingredients.

Get the recipe

How to make a Cosmo Martini

A time tested recipe for Cosmopolitan Martinis, developed with input from experienced bartenders. Cool, clean and fresh tasting!

Get the recipe

Lime Blackberry Martini

Get the recipe

Ginger Lemon Whiskey Drink

Bourbon cocktail mixed with a rosemary-infused honey simple syrup, lemon juice, and ginger. YUM!

Get the recipe

Robert’s Perfect Manhattan Drink

My husband Robert’s Perfect Manhattan cocktail is smoky and full-bodied, but isn’t as sweet as most – he uses rye instead of bourbon!

Get the recipe

Perfect Sidecar Drink Recipe

A Sidecar Martini are both delicious and deceptively easy to prepare, calling for only three ingredients. There are a few tricks to preparing them properly, including using top quality brandy and cointreau, as well as correctly balancing the sweet and sour aspects.

Get the recipe

Frozen Brandy Alexander with Ice Cream

Get the recipe

Homemade Baileys Irish Cream Liqueur Recipe

Irish Cream Liqueur, most commonly known as Baileys, is a favorite of mine. It’s a rich, creamy, chocolate and caramel-flavored alcoholic beverage with hints of almond and coffee. It’s super quick and easy to prepare – in only 10 minutes!

Get the recipe

Snowblower Cocktail

Mom’s Snowblower Cocktail is the perfect warm pick-me-up on a cold winter evening. Cranberry juice and apple cider are steeped in cinnamon and cloves, then topped off with a shot of rum – YUM. (Can also be made without the rum.)

Get the recipe

Happy new year!!

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Robert’s Perfect Manhattan Drink

Lee Clayton Roper — Thu, 12 Sep 2019 16:26:02 +0000

Robert’s Perfect Manhattan cocktail is smoky and full-bodied, but isn’t as sweet as most – he uses rye instead of bourbon!

(Photo by Rick Souders)

Robert’s Perfect Manhattan Drink

To celebrate our anniversary one year, Robert and I visited the Palace Arms restaurant at the Brown Palace Hotel in downtown Denver. Opting to enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail in their beautiful lobby, Robert noticed a Rye Manhattan on the drinks menu. While he wasn’t partial to Manhattans in the past (he felt they were too sweet), on this night he thought their use of rye instead of the traditional bourbon might lend better flavor. He was right – it was delicious! Shortly thereafter he created his own version of a Manhattan.

Robert follows the Brown Palace’s lead and uses rye whiskey in his Manhattan. The rest of his recipe calls for the traditional ingredients in a “Perfect” Manhattan. While creating his recipe, we both learned that there are several different types of Manhattan cocktails (traditional, dry, perfect, etc.) – who knew! The basic differences are the liquor (rye or bourbon) and the type of vermouth (only sweet, only dry, or a combination of the two).

What is a Perfect Manhattan?

A Perfect Manhattan is considered to have a nice balance of sweet and dry, and that’s why Robert uses its ingredients. In addition to rye, Robert includes both sweet and dry vermouth as well as bitters. He opts for a maraschino cherry garnish instead of the traditional lemon twist called for in the “Perfect” version. Speaking of maraschino cherries, Robert recommends Luxardo brand from Italy – they are more flavorful, not as sweet, and don’t have any artificial coloring added.

What is the difference between a Manhattan and a Perfect Manhattan?

A traditional Manhattan is made with whiskey, sweet vermouth and bitters. A Perfect Manhattan calls for whiskey, 50/50 sweet and dry vermouth, and bitters.

What does the word perfect mean in a Perfect Manhattan?

When “perfect” is an adjective describing a cocktail, it means that sweet and dry vermouth are added in equal amounts.

How to make a Perfect Manhattan

Here’s how Robert makes his Manhattans:

Prep glasses.
Fill a martini or coupe glass with ice water to quickly chill; let stand 1 to 2 minutes. Drain and dry.
Prep shaker.
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes (large cubes won’t melt as quickly as small cubes in the spirits and/or liqueur).
Add ingredients and shake.
Add rye, vermouths and bitters. Shake well.
Strain and pour.
Pour through a cocktail strainer into a chilled martini glass.
Garnish and serve.
Garnish with cherries, if desired, and serve.

Should a Perfect Manhattan be cold or room temperature?

Yes, Robert recommends serving Manhattans cold, but preferably not over ice, as the ice will melt and dilute all the wonderful flavors.

Can the Perfect Manhattan be made in advance?

Yes, Manhattans can be prepared ahead of time. Just measure out the ingredients ahead and place in a pitcher. When ready to serve, shake, strain, pour and garnish.

Perfect Manhattan Recipe FAQ

What ingredients are in a Perfect Manhattan?

Perfect Manhattans are made with whiskey (Robert prefers rye whiskey), both sweet and dry vermouth, and bitters.

How do I order a Perfect Manhattan?

Tell the bartender you want a “perfect rye Manhattan up” and specify your favorite brand of rye whiskey. If you don’t have a favorite rye, ask for a recommendation.

What is the best liquor to make a Manhattan with?

Robert likes to make his Manhattans with rye whiskey – he feels they are less sweet this way.

What’s the difference between an Old-Fashioned and a Manhattan?

An Old Fashioned is prepared with whiskey, sugar and bitters, while a Manhattan calls for whiskey, sweet vermouth and bitters.

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Perfect Manhattan Recipe

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Print Recipe

My husband Robert’s Perfect Manhattan cocktail is smoky and full-bodied, but isn’t as sweet as most – he uses rye instead of bourbon!

Yield: One cocktail

Ingredients

4 ounces (1/2 cup) good quality rye whiskey

2 ounces (1/4 cup) sweet vermouth

1 ounce (2 tablespoons) dry vermouth

Several shakes of bitters

Garnish: maraschino cherries (Luxardo brand)

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Instructions

Fill a martini or coupe glass with ice water to quickly chill; let stand 1 to 2 minutes. Drain and dry.
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes (large cubes won’t melt as quickly as small cubes in the spirits and/or liqueur).
Add rye, vermouths and bitters. Shake well.
Pour through a cocktail strainer into a chilled martini glass.
Garnish with cherries, if desired, and serve.

Author: (From “Fresh Tastes” by Lee Clayton Roper)
Category: Cocktails, easy entertaining

The post Robert’s Perfect Manhattan Drink appeared first on A Well Seasoned Kitchen.

Ginger Lemon Whiskey Drink

Lee Clayton Roper — Thu, 13 Dec 2018 13:05:57 +0000

Lemon Ginger Whiskey Cocktail is an elegant, flavorful drink to serve as the “featured cocktail” at your next gathering.

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Bourbon Lemon Cocktail with Ginger

My mom loved bourbon – it was her alcohol of choice in the fall and winter (she drank vodka during the other seasons). I’m more of a vodka girl, but I do like bourbon when it’s mixed with other flavors – like in our Genuine Derby Day Mint Juleps, and in my Lemon Ginger Bourbon Cocktail.

Last year, Robert and I had a lovely mini-vacation at The Canyon Suites hotel on the property of The Phoenician in Scottsdale, Arizona. One evening, the bartender served a bourbon-based drink that was infused with smoke! It was also flavored with lemon, ginger and rosemary. While I thought the smoky flavor was a bit overpowering, I liked all the others flavors. (After all, I like pretty much anything that has either lemon or ginger in it, let alone both.) So, I came home and created my own version of this delectable cocktail – minus the smoke. I think mom would have liked my version!

Specialty Bar Tools Needed to Make this Whiskey Ginger Recipe

There are only two bar tools that you’ll need to make this cocktail:

Cocktail shaker. A shaker is the most efficient way to thoroughly blend together all the ingredients. Plus, with the addition of ice, it also chills the drinks at the same time.
Cocktail strainer. Often the strainers built into cocktail shakers don’t tend to work very well. They can easily get clogged, and can be slow. My favorite is the stainless steel strainer with a spring linked here.

Lemon Whiskey Drink Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these amazing cocktails:

For the Rosemary-Infused Simple Syrup:

Honey
Water
Fresh rosemary

For the cocktail:

Rosemary Infused Simple Syrup (see above)
Good quality bourbon or whiskey
Ginger Liqueur (I like Domaine de Canton)
Fresh lemon juice
Lemon or orange bitters
Rosemary, for garnish
Lemon slices, for garnish

How to Make a Whiskey Lemon Cocktail

All you need to do to make this refreshing cocktail is follow these easy steps:

Prepare Rosemary-Infused Simple Syrup.
In a small saucepan, heat honey, water and rosemary leaves over medium-low heat, stirring, just until honey is dissolved. Remove from heat, cover and allow to steep (at room temperature) for several hours or overnight.
Place syrup in shaker.
Place 1/4 cup rosemary-infused simple syrup (with the rosemary) in a cocktail shaker that’s around half full with ice. Place the remaining simple syrup in a sealed container and refrigerate for one month for later use. (Can also freeze for up to 3 months.)
Add remaining ingredients and shake.
Add bourbon, ginger liqueur, lemon juice and lemon bitters to cocktail shaker. Shake until well mixed and chilled.
Strain and serve.
Strain into two cocktail glasses over ice. Garnish with a small rosemary sprig and a slice of lemon.

FAQ for Bourbon and Ginger Cocktail

What is simple syrup?

Simple syrup is basically sweetened water. You can use granulated sugar, brown sugar or honey. Most simple syrups call for mixing together 1 part sugar to 1 part water, then stirring the mixture over medium-low heat until the sugar dissolves. In creating this recipe, I found that more honey/less water worked best – which is sometimes called “rich simple syrup.”

Why is simple syrup important to this cocktail?

Simple syrup is an important ingredient in this recipe for two reasons:
1. It smoothly provides sweetness needed to offset the tartness of the lemon juice and lemon bitters.
2. Adding rosemary leaves to the syrup cooking process provides a way to disperse the rosemary flavor into the cocktail.

What is the difference between Whiskey and Bourbon? Can either be used in this recipe?

First, and most importantly, remember: all bourbon is whiskey, but not all whiskey is bourbon. The main difference between the two is in the fermentation process – the grain used and how it is stored/aged.

By definition, whiskey is a spirit distilled from fermented grain, including wheat, rye, barley, and corn—and then aged in wooden barrels. To legally call a whiskey a bourbon, it must be:
– produced in the United States. (Other whiskeys are produced all over the world; most common are Scottish and Irish.)
– made from 51 percent corn. (For other whiskeys, the mix of grains can vary.)
– distilled to a max of 160 proof and placed into the barrels at a max of 125 proof. (Other whiskeys can be distilled to a max of 190 proof.)
– stored in newly charred white oak barrels. (For other whiskeys, then need to be in oak barrels, but can be new or old, charred or not.)

In terms of flavor, bourbon tends to be slightly sweeter and smoother than other whiskeys. Any whiskey – bourbon or other varieties – works well in this cocktail.

Not sure of which whiskey to use in this recipe? Check out Whisky World’s reviews.

Order Out – What is a Ginger and Whiskey Called?

This cocktail is my version of a drink created by the mixologist at a hotel in Arizona, so it’s very unique! If you want to order something similar at a bar or restaurant, the closest classic bourbon cocktails might be a Gold Rush or Whiskey Sour. Ask the bartender to add in some ginger liqueur, and you’ll be even closer – just missing the rosemary.

Serving Suggestions for a Whiskey Ginger Cocktail

I have served this whiskey cocktail with many different appetizers. Here are some of my favorites:

Prosciutto, Fig and Goat Cheese Tarts

Sautéed Brie with Green Onion

Pimiento Cheese Spread

Onion Parmesan Toast

Liptauer Cheese Spread

Feta Mousse

Mushroom Pâté

Mini Cheddar Dill Scones with Smoked Salmon

Prosciutto-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks

Country Ham Cheese Spread

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Whiskey Lemon Cocktail

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5 from 2 reviews

Print Recipe

Bourbon cocktail mixed with a rosemary-infused honey simple syrup, lemon juice, and ginger. YUM!

Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Rosemary-Infused Honey Simple Syrup (Makes around 1 1/8 cups)

3/4 cup honey
6 tablespoons water
1/4 cup fresh rosemary leaves, plus more for garnish

Lemon Ginger Bourbon Cocktail

1/4 cup Rosemary-Infused Simple Syrup
1/2 cup (4 ounces) good quality bourbon
6 tablespoons (3 ounces) ginger liqueur (I like Domaine de Canton brand)
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
6 dashes lemon bitters (can also use orange)
Rosemary sprigs, for garnish
Lemon slices, for garnish

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Instructions

Rosemary-Infused Simple Syrup

In a small saucepan, heat the honey, water and rosemary leaves over medium-low heat, stirring, just until the honey is dissolved. Remove from heat, cover and allow to steep (at room temperature) for several hours or overnight.

Lemon Ginger Bourbon Cocktail

Place 1/4 cup rosemary-infused simple syrup (with the rosemary) in a cocktail shaker that’s around half full with ice. Place the remaining simple syrup in a sealed container and refrigerate for one month for later use. (Can also freeze for up to 3 months.)
Add bourbon, ginger liqueur, lemon juice and lemon bitters to the cocktail shaker. Shake until well mixed and chilled.
Strain into two cocktail glasses over ice. Garnish with a small rosemary sprig and a slice of lemon.

Author: (By Lee Clayton Roper)
Category: cocktails, easy entertaining
Method: shaken

The post Ginger Lemon Whiskey Drink appeared first on A Well Seasoned Kitchen.

Homemade Baileys Irish Cream Liqueur Recipe

Lee Clayton Roper — Thu, 21 Dec 2017 20:43:14 +0000

Irish Cream Liqueur, most commonly known under the brand name Baileys, is my favorite after dinner drink to pair with dessert – or to just drink as dessert. Creamy, velvety smooth and slightly sweet, Irish Cream is a well balanced blend of vanilla and chocolate flavors with hints of caramel, nuts and whiskey. My recipe incorporates all of these tastes, plus adds in another ingredient that gives the whole mixture a big flavor boost!

What I love about this Irish Cream recipe

Two of my favorite flavors are chocolate and caramel, and my Irish Cream Liqueur recipe combines both tastes into a delicious drink. And, this rich, creamy beverage is super quick and easy to prepare. All you need is a blender!

What is Irish Cream?

Irish Cream is a liqueur comprised of Irish whiskey, cream and other ingredients that add more flavor, typically vanilla, cocoa and sometimes subtle caramel.

What does Irish Cream taste like?

Creamy, velvety smooth and slightly sweet, Irish Cream is a well balanced blend of vanilla and chocolate/cocoa flavors with a hint of whiskey.

What’s in Irish Cream?

Here’s all you need to make my version of Irish Cream Liqueur (see recipe card below for proportions and directions):

Good quality Irish whiskey (I use Jameson)
Sweetened condensed milk
Heavy whipping cream
Amaretto liqueur
Chocolate syrup
Vanilla extract
Instant coffee granules

There’s so few coffee granules in this recipe that you can’t taste them, but they have a magical way of amping up all the other flavors in this delectable liqueur.

How to make Irish Cream

You are going to be amazed at how quick and easy this liqueur is to make! Here’s all you do:

Blend ingredients.
Process all ingredients together in a blender until well mixed.
Bottle and refrigerate.
Carefully pour into bottles with a tight seal (I like to use a funnel) and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 months (or until your cream is due to expire).

How to store this Irish Cream Recipe

Store Irish cream in bottles with a tight seal and refrigerate. It will keep for up to 2 months, or until your cream is due to expire. However, I don’t recommend freezing it as it will change the texture (and not in a good way).

What to mix with Irish Cream Liqueur

I like to serve this scrumptious Irish Cream Liqueur straight up – just make sure it’s cold. Some of my friends like it on the rocks. Plus, it’s delicious blended together with ice cream for a yummy adult milkshake. Or, add it to hot chocolate on a cold winter night. The uses are endless – and all wonderfully scrumptious!

Irish Cream Liqueur Recipe FAQs

Does Irish Cream taste like coffee?

No, it doesn’t. Even though this recipe calls for a small amount of coffee granules (1 1/2 teaspoons), there is no coffee flavor.

Does Irish cream taste like vanilla?

Yes, Irish Cream does have hints if vanilla flavoring.

What is the difference between regular cream and Irish cream?

Irish Cream is a liqueur that has cream in it (along with whiskey and other flavorings), while regular cream is well, cream, which is the fat that rises to the top when unpasteurized milk sits for awhile.

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Homemade Baileys Irish Cream Liqueur Recipe

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5 from 1 review

Print Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: Around 32 ounces

Ingredients

1 cup + 2 tablespoons good quality Irish whiskey (I use Jameson)
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 to 3 tablespoons amaretto liqueur
2 tablespoons chocolate syrup
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 teaspoons instant coffee granules

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Instructions

Process all ingredients together in a blender until well mixed.
Carefully pour into bottles with a tight seal (I like to use a funnel) and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 months (or until your cream is due to expire!). Shake well before serving.

Author: By Lee Clayton Roper
Category: Cocktails, dessert

The post Homemade Baileys Irish Cream Liqueur Recipe appeared first on A Well Seasoned Kitchen.