The Sazerac: it’s not just a cocktail, it’s a cultural icon. Hailing from New Orleans, this timeless drink has been delighting palates for over a century. With its rich history and complex flavor profile, the Sazerac is a true classic that never goes out of style. But why settle for just one recipe when you can have 18? In this article, we’ll take the original Sazerac to new heights by adding a twist to each and every one. From traditional recipes to innovative takes on this beloved cocktail, we’ve got it all covered.
From classic whiskey pairings to bold flavor combinations, these 18 Sazerac recipes with a twist are sure to impress even the most discerning drinker. Whether you’re looking for a unique drink to serve at your next party or simply want to spice up your cocktail game, this article has something for everyone. So sit back, relax, and get ready to shake (or stir) things up!
Traditional New Orleans Sazerac
The Sazerac is a timeless cocktail that originated in the French Quarter of New Orleans. This recipe honors its rich history and flavorful profile, perfect for sipping on a warm evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces rye whiskey
– 1/2 ounce absinthe (or Pernod)
– 1/2 ounce simple syrup
– Lemon twist or peel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the rye whiskey, absinthe, and simple syrup.
3. Stir for about 30 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled Sazerac glass (or an old-fashioned glass).
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or peel.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in minutes.
Rye Whiskey Sazerac with Absinthe Rinse
This classic cocktail gets a bold twist with the addition of absinthe, adding an anise-flavored depth to the spicy rye whiskey.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz rye whiskey
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 3 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
– Absinthe rinse (see below)
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add rye whiskey, simple syrup, and Peychaud’s Bitters.
3. Stir for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Express a lemon twist or wheel over the drink, then use as garnish.
Absinthe Rinse:
1. Pour a small amount of absinthe onto a sugar cube in a separate glass.
2. Light the absinthe-soaked sugar cube on fire (use caution!).
3. Once the flames die down, add a dash or two of absinthe to the drink.
Cooking Time: None
Cognac Sazerac with Peychaud’s Bitters
Experience the rich flavors of France in this sophisticated cocktail, elevated by the subtle notes of Cognac and the iconic Peychaud’s Bitters.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Cognac
– 1/2 oz Absinthe
– 1 sugar cube (about 1/4 teaspoon)
– 2 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a rocks glass, place the sugar cube and add a small amount of Cognac to moisten it.
2. Crush the sugar cube with a muddler or the back of a spoon until it dissolves into the liquid.
3. Add the remaining Cognac, Absinthe, and Peychaud’s Bitters to the glass.
4. Stir gently to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Express a lemon twist over the drink, then use as garnish.
Cooking Time: None required
Bourbon Sazerac with Maple Syrup
Elevate the traditional Sazerac cocktail by adding a touch of sweetness and depth with maple syrup. This bourbon-based drink is perfect for those who enjoy a balanced blend of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz absinthe
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 3 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
– 1/4 teaspoon maple syrup
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine bourbon, absinthe, simple syrup, and Peychaud’s Bitters.
2. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
4. Add the maple syrup and stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None (ready in minutes)
Enjoy your Bourbon Sazerac with Maple Syrup!
Smoked Sazerac with Applewood Infusion
Smoked Sazerac with Applewood Infusion Recipe
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique twist on the classic Sazerac, featuring a smoky flavor profile and an infusion of applewood. This recipe combines the bold flavors of whiskey, absinthe, and bitters with a subtle hint of smokiness.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Smoked Whiskey (such as Laphroaig or Islay Scotch)
– 1/2 oz Absinthe
– 1/2 oz Simple Syrup infused with Applewood chips (see note)
– 3 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
– Lemon twist, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine smoked whiskey, absinthe, and applewood-infused simple syrup.
2. Add a handful of ice to the mixture and stir for approximately 20-25 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
3. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with ice.
4. Garnish with a lemon twist and serve immediately.
Note: To make applewood-infused simple syrup, combine 1 cup water with 1 cup granulated sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and add 2-3 Applewood chips. Let steep for at least 30 minutes before straining and cooling the syrup.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep), 20-25 seconds (stirring)
Spiced Sazerac with Star Anise and Clove
This Spiced Sazerac takes the classic New Orleans cocktail to new heights by incorporating the warm, aromatic flavors of star anise and clove. The result is a complex, intriguing drink that’s perfect for adventurous spirits.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz rye whiskey
– 1/2 oz absinthe
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (infused with 1/4 teaspoon ground star anise and 1/8 teaspoon ground clove)
– 1 dash Peychaud’s Bitters
– Lemon twist, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the rye whiskey, absinthe, and simple syrup.
3. Add a dash of Peychaud’s Bitters.
4. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. Express a lemon twist over the drink and use as garnish.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a mixed drink!
Honey Lavender Sazerac
Combine the classic Sazerac with the sweetness of honey and the subtlety of lavender for a unique and refreshing cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz rye whiskey
– 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz lavender syrup (see below for recipe)
– 2 dashes absinthe
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Lavender Syrup Recipe:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
Combine sugar and water in a saucepan, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Add lavender buds and remove from heat. Let steep for at least 2 hours or overnight. Strain syrup before using.
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add rye whiskey, honey syrup, and lavender syrup to the shaker.
3. Add absinthe and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None needed! Simply mix and serve.
Cherry Vanilla Sazerac
Experience the sweet and spicy combination of cherry and vanilla in this unique twist on the classic Sazerac cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz rye whiskey
– 1/2 oz cherry liqueur (such as Cherry Heering)
– 1/2 oz vanilla-flavored simple syrup (see note)
– 1 dash Peychaud’s Bitters
– 1 sugar cube (about 1/4 tsp)
– Cherry garnish and ice
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine rye whiskey, cherry liqueur, and vanilla-flavored simple syrup.
2. Add the Peychaud’s Bitters and stir to combine.
3. Place the sugar cube in the mixing glass and muddle gently with the back of a spoon to release the flavors.
4. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the mixture.
5. Strain the cocktail into a chilled absinthe-rinsed glass (or a glass filled with crushed ice).
6. Garnish with a cherry and serve.
Cooking Time: None needed, as this is a cocktail!
Orange Peel Infused Sazerac
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique spin on the traditional Sazerac. By infusing the drink with orange peel, you’ll add a burst of citrus flavor to the classic New Orleans-inspired cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz rye whiskey
– 1/2 oz absinthe
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 2 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
– 1 orange peel (thinly sliced)
– Ice
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine rye whiskey, absinthe, simple syrup, and bitters.
2. Add the thinly sliced orange peel to the mixture and let it infuse for at least 5 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Fill a Sazerac glass with ice.
4. Strain the infused mixture into the prepared glass.
5. Express a lemon twist or wheel over the drink, then garnish with the citrus.
Cooking Time: None required! Just chill and serve.
Herbal Sazerac with Rosemary and Thyme
This refreshing twist on the classic Sazerac cocktail combines the herbal flavors of rosemary and thyme with bourbon, absinthe, and sweet vermouth. Perfect for sipping on a warm evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz absinthe
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
– 1 sprig of fresh rosemary
– 1 sprig of fresh thyme
– Simple syrup (optional)
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add bourbon, absinthe, and sweet vermouth.
3. Gently press the rosemary and thyme sprigs into the mixture to release their oils and flavors.
4. Stir for about 30 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the cocktail into a chilled glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe.
Chocolate Bitters Sazerac
This rich and indulgent twist on the classic Sazerac combines the deep flavors of chocolate, absinthe, and rye whiskey for a truly unforgettable drinking experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Rye Whiskey
– 1/2 oz Absinthe
– 1/2 oz Simple Syrup (infused with 1 tsp Unsweetened Cocoa Powder)
– 3 dashes Chocolate Bitters
– Lemon twist, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine rye whiskey, absinthe, and simple syrup.
2. Add chocolate bitters and stir to combine.
3. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the mixture.
4. Strain the cocktail into a chilled Sazerac glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist.
Cooking Time: None (ready in minutes!)
Ginger Sazerac with Fresh Ginger Syrup
Elevate your cocktail game with this twist on the classic Sazerac, featuring a sweet and spicy fresh ginger syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz rye whiskey
– 1/2 oz Cynar
– 1/2 oz absinthe
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 2 dashes of bitters
– Ice
– Fresh ginger syrup (see below)
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the rye whiskey, Cynar, absinthe, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
3. Add 2 dashes of bitters.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
6. Drizzle the fresh ginger syrup over the drink in a zig-zag pattern.
Fresh Ginger Syrup:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup sugar
– 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
Combine the water and sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Add the sliced ginger and remove from heat. Let steep for at least 30 minutes before straining and cooling.
Cooking Time: None required for this recipe!
Peppermint Sazerac for the Holidays
This Peppermint Sazerac recipe puts a festive spin on the classic New Orleans cocktail, perfect for holiday gatherings. With its bold peppermint flavor and hint of sweetness, it’s sure to be a hit at your next party.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz absinthe
– 1/2 oz green Chartreuse
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (infused with peppermint extract)
– 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
– Ice
– Crushed candy canes or peppermint sprinkles for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add absinthe, green Chartreuse, and simple syrup. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to combine.
3. Add Angostura bitters. Continue stirring for another 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass filled with crushed ice.
5. Garnish with a sprinkle of crushed candy canes or peppermint sprinkles.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Earl Grey Tea Infused Sazerac
This unique twist on the classic Sazerac adds a sophisticated touch with the subtle flavor of Earl Grey tea. Perfect for those who appreciate a complex cocktail, this recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces rye whiskey
– 1/2 ounce Cynar
– 1/2 ounce simple syrup infused with Earl Grey tea (see note)
– 2 dashes absinthe
– Lemon twist or peel for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the rye whiskey, Cynar, and Earl Grey tea-infused simple syrup.
3. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and combine ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Add 2 dashes of absinthe on top.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or peel.
Note: To make Earl Grey tea-infused simple syrup, steep 1 Earl Grey tea bag in 1 cup boiling water for 5 minutes. Let it cool, then mix with equal parts sugar to create the simple syrup. Store refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None
Smoky Mezcal Sazerac
Elevate your cocktail game with this smoky twist on the classic Sazerac, featuring mezcal and a hint of chipotle pepper.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Mezcal
– 1/2 oz Simple Syrup (infused with chipotle peppers)
– 1/2 oz Punt e Mes Vermouth
– 1 dash Angostura Bitters
– 1 sugar cube
– Rye Whiskey Barrel-Aged Cherry Garnish
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine Mezcal, simple syrup, and Punt e Mes Vermouth.
2. Add a dash of Angostura Bitters.
3. Fill the glass with ice and stir for 30 seconds to chill and dilute.
4. Place a sugar cube in a rocks glass.
5. Pour the mixture over the sugar cube.
6. Garnish with a Rye Whiskey Barrel-Aged Cherry.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to serve immediately.
Spiced Pear Sazerac with Cardamom
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique blend of flavors, combining the warmth of cardamom with the sweetness of pears and the classic spirit of rye whiskey.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz rye whiskey
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (infused with cardamom pods)
– 1/2 oz pear liqueur
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 oz absinthe
– Dash of Angostura bitters
– Slice of pear, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add rye whiskey, simple syrup, pear liqueur, and lemon juice.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Add absinthe and dash of Angostura bitters.
6. Garnish with a slice of pear.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Blackberry Sage Sazerac
This Blackberry Sage Sazerac recipe combines the classic flavors of a Sazerac with the sweet and earthy notes of blackberries and sage. The result is a unique and refreshing cocktail perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Rye Whiskey
– 1/2 oz Simple Syrup (1:1 sugar and water)
– 1/2 oz Blackberry puree
– 3 dashes Sage-infused simple syrup (see note)
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the rye whiskey, simple syrup, blackberry puree, and sage-infused simple syrup.
3. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Express a lemon twist over the drink and use as garnish.
Cooking Time: None
Note: To make sage-infused simple syrup, steep 1/4 cup of fresh sage leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes. Strain and mix with an equal amount of sugar to dissolve. Store in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cold Brew Coffee Sazerac
Elevate your coffee game with this refreshing twist on the classic Sazerac cocktail. By infusing cold brew coffee into the mix, you’ll get a smooth, rich flavor that’s perfect for warm days.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Absinthe
– 1/2 oz Cold Brew Coffee
– 1/2 oz Simple Syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add Absinthe, cold brew coffee, and simple syrup.
3. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Express a lemon twist or wheel over the drink and use as garnish.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail, after all.
Summary
Classic cocktails get a creative boost with these 18 unique Sazerac recipes. From traditional New Orleans flavors to innovative twists, this list takes you on a journey through the world of whiskey-based drinks. Discover how rye, bourbon, and cognac can be combined with unexpected ingredients like absinthe, maple syrup, and smoked wood infusion. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just looking for something new to try, these recipes are sure to delight. So grab your shaker and get ready to shake (and stir) things up!
Leave a Reply