Pickle Bourbon Cocktail – Smoky, Savory Whiskey Drink

Contents show

1 The innovative machine-made rocks glass of the functional glass collection drink specific glassware

2 Ingredients (Serves 1 Cocktail)

3 Instructions – Step-by-Step Guide

3.1 1️⃣ Prepare the Glass

3.2 2️⃣ Mix the Cocktail

3.3 3️⃣ Strain & Serve

3.4 4️⃣ Garnish & Enjoy!

4 Helpful Tips for the Perfect Pickle Bourbon Cocktail

5 Conservation and Storage for Pickle Bourbon Cocktail

5.1 Best Way to Serve for Maximum Freshness

5.2 Short-Term Storage (Up to 1 Hour)

5.3 Longer Storage (Up to 24 Hours – Without Ice)

5.4 What NOT to Do

5.5 Pro Tip: Make a Batch for a Party!

6 Substitutions and Variations

6.1 Substitutions:

6.2 Variations:

7 Storage Instructions

8 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

8.1 1. Can I make a large batch for a party?

8.2 2. How strong is this cocktail?

8.3 3. Can I make a non-alcoholic version?

8.4 4. What’s the best occasion for this drink?

9 Conclusion – Why You’ll Love This Cocktail

10 Pickle Bourbon Cocktail – Smoky, Savory Whiskey Drink

10.1 Description

10.2 Ingredients

10.3 Instructions

10.4 1️⃣ Prepare the Glass 🥃

10.5 2️⃣ Mix the Cocktail 🍸

10.6 3️⃣ Strain & Serve ✨

10.7 4️⃣ Garnish & Enjoy! 🥒

10.8 Equipment

10.9 Notes

10.10 Did you make this recipe?

The innovative machine-made rocks glass of the functional glass collection drink specific glassware

Riedel Drink Specific Glassware Rocks Glass,9.98 oz (Engraved)

Buy Now →

This bold and unexpected cocktail combines smoked bourbon, tangy pickle brine, and bitters for a unique twist on a classic whiskey drink. The hint of sweetness from simple syrup balances the salty and smoky notes, while a smoked salt rim and pickle spear garnish add the perfect finishing touch.

If you love savory, smoky cocktails with a bit of tang, this drink will blow your mind! It’s perfect for whiskey lovers, adventurous drinkers, and anyone who enjoys a briny twist on their bourbon.

this RECIPE

Ingredients (Serves 1 Cocktail)

2 oz Smoked Bourbon – Deep, smoky, and rich (or use regular bourbon and smoke the glass).
½ oz Pickle Brine – Adds a tangy, salty punch.
¼ oz Simple Syrup – Lightly sweetens and balances the flavors.
2 Dashes Angostura Bitters – Brings depth and spice.
Ice Cubes – To keep it chilled.
Pickle Spear (for garnish) – Enhances the briny flavor.
Smoked Salt (for the rim) – Complements the smoky, savory notes.

Instructions – Step-by-Step Guide

1️⃣ Prepare the Glass

• Rim a rocks glass with smoked salt for an extra burst of flavor.
• Fill the glass with ice cubes.
• (Optional: Smoke the glass by trapping wood smoke inside before pouring the drink for an enhanced smoky experience.)

2️⃣ Mix the Cocktail

• In a mixing glass, combine:
  • 2 oz smoked bourbon
  • ½ oz pickle brine
  • ¼ oz simple syrup
  • 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Add ice and stir well for 20–30 seconds to chill and blend the flavors.

3️⃣ Strain & Serve

• Strain the mixture into the prepared glass over fresh ice.

4️⃣ Garnish & Enjoy!

• Garnish with a pickle spear for an extra punch of briny goodness.
• Serve immediately and savor the smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors!

Helpful Tips for the Perfect Pickle Bourbon Cocktail

Use High-Quality Bourbon – A smoky bourbon works best, but if you don’t have one, try adding a drop of liquid smoke or using a smoked glass.

Choose the Right Pickle Brine –

• Dill pickle brine for a classic salty tang.
• Spicy pickle brine if you love heat!
• Bread-and-butter pickle brine for a touch of sweetness.

Adjust the Sweetness to Taste –

• Prefer sweeter? Add ½ oz maple syrup or honey instead of simple syrup.
• Want it drier? Skip the sweetener altogether.

Smoke the Glass for Extra Depth –

• Use a smoking gun with hickory or applewood chips.
• Or, light a wood chip, place the glass over it, and trap the smoke inside before pouring.

Stir, Don’t Shake – Stirring keeps the drink smooth and velvety, while shaking could dilute the bourbon too much.

Try Different Garnishes –

• A pickle spear for a bold, briny kick.
• A candied bacon strip for a smoky-sweet balance.
• A grilled lemon slice for a hint of charred citrus.

Pair It with the Right Food –

• BBQ ribs, smoked brisket, or grilled steak complement the smoky bourbon.
• Sharp cheddar, blue cheese, or charcuterie enhance the briny and bold flavors.

Conservation and Storage for Pickle Bourbon Cocktail

Best Way to Serve for Maximum Freshness

This cocktail is best enjoyed immediately after preparation to maintain the bold smoky notes and crisp pickle brine flavor. However, if you need to store it briefly, follow these tips:

Short-Term Storage (Up to 1 Hour)

Pre-mix the bourbon, pickle brine, simple syrup, and bitters in a sealed container and store in the fridge for up to 1 hour.
Do not add ice until serving to prevent dilution.

Longer Storage (Up to 24 Hours – Without Ice)

You can prepare the bourbon mix (without ice) ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Before serving, stir well, strain, and pour over fresh ice.

What NOT to Do

Do not freeze the cocktail – Freezing will alter the flavors and separate the ingredients.
Do not store with ice – Ice will melt and dilute the drink, changing its balance.
Avoid storing with garnishes – Pickles left in the mix for too long can overpower the drink with briny intensity.

Pro Tip: Make a Batch for a Party!

Scale up the ingredients and store in a pitcher in the fridge.
When ready to serve, stir well and pour over fresh ice.
Set up a garnish station with pickle spears, smoked salt, and candied bacon so guests can customize their drinks.

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions:

No Smoked Bourbon? – Use regular bourbon + a smoked glass or a splash of Islay Scotch (e.g., Laphroaig) for a peaty effect.
Pickle Brine? – Use olive brine for a more briny, martini-style twist.
No Simple Syrup? – Swap with maple syrup or honey for a richer sweetness.

Variations:

Spicy Pickle Bourbon – Add hot sauce or muddled jalapeño for heat!
Pickle Old Fashioned – Use a sugar cube instead of simple syrup and serve with an orange peel.
Sweet & Tangy Version – Add a splash of pineapple juice for a unique twist.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate pre-mixed ingredients (without ice) in an airtight container for up to 1 hour.
• Stir before serving and add fresh ice for the best experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make a large batch for a party?

Yes! Multiply the ingredients and store in a sealed pitcher in the fridge. Serve over fresh ice when ready.

2. How strong is this cocktail?

It’s moderately strong due to the bourbon base, but the pickle brine and bitters mellow the intensity.

3. Can I make a non-alcoholic version?

Yes! Replace the bourbon with:
✔ Smoky lapsang souchong tea or unsweetened black tea for depth.
✔ Non-alcoholic whiskey alternatives like Ritual Zero Proof Whiskey.

4. What’s the best occasion for this drink?

🥃 Whiskey Tasting Nights – A bold twist for bourbon lovers.
🍔 BBQ & Grilling Parties – Pairs perfectly with smoky meats.
🧀 Charcuterie & Cheese Boards – Enhances salty, rich flavors.
🥒 Pickle Lovers’ Dream – If you love pickles, you NEED this drink!

Conclusion – Why You’ll Love This Cocktail

The Put Pickle In My Cocktail is a savory, smoky, and tangy bourbon drink that’s perfect for adventurous whiskey lovers. With its unique pickle brine twist, smoky depth, and a hint of sweetness, this cocktail is unexpectedly delicious and totally unforgettable!

📸 Tried this recipe? Share your photos on Pinterest or Instagram! 🍹✨ #PickleBourbonCocktail

Would you like more savory cocktail ideas or whiskey pairing suggestions?

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