If you love a classic Old Fashioned but crave a little something extra, this Pickle Bourbon Old Fashioned is about to change the game! With the smooth warmth of bourbon, the briny tang of pickle juice, and the richness of bitters and sugar, this cocktail delivers a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and smoky.
It’s a surprising, yet irresistible drink—perfect for adventurous cocktail lovers, whiskey fans, and, of course, pickle enthusiasts!
Why You’ll Love This Pickle Bourbon Old Fashioned
Unique & Unexpected – The salty-sour kick of pickle brine takes bourbon to the next level.
Perfectly Balanced – Sweet, tangy, smoky, and rich all in one sip.
Easy to Make – Just stir, chill, and serve in minutes!
A Great Conversation Starter – Impress your friends with this fun twist on a classic.
Customizable – Adjust the sweetness or try different types of pickles for a unique flavor!
Ingredients
- 2 oz Bourbon
- ½ oz Pickle Brine (from your favorite pickles)
- 2 Dashes Angostura Bitters
- 1 Sugar Cube
- 1 Pickle Spear (for garnish)
- 1 Orange Peel (for garnish)
- 1 Large Ice Cube
Optional Add-Ins:
- Smoked salt for a smoky twist.
- A splash of club soda for a lighter version.
- Spicy pickle brine for a fiery kick!
Equipment Needed
Mixing Glass – For stirring the cocktail smoothly.
Muddler – To dissolve the sugar cube.
Bar Spoon – For stirring.
Rocks Glass – The perfect serving glass.
How to Make a Pickle Bourbon Old Fashioned
Step 1: Prepare the Cocktail
- In a mixing glass, muddle the sugar cube with 2 dashes of bitters and a splash of water until the sugar dissolves.
Step 2: Add the Liquids
- Pour in ½ oz pickle brine and 2 oz bourbon.
Step 3: Stir & Chill
- Add a large ice cube to the glass and stir for 20–30 seconds to properly chill and dilute the drink.
Step 4: Serve & Garnish
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass with fresh ice.
- Garnish with a pickle spear and a twist of orange peel for a bright, citrusy contrast.
Step 5: Enjoy!
- Serve immediately and savor the savory, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors of this unique bourbon cocktail.
Pro Tips for the Best Pickle Bourbon Old Fashioned
Use a quality bourbon – A smooth, slightly sweet bourbon like Buffalo Trace, Maker’s Mark, or Woodford Reserve balances the pickle brine beautifully.
Choose the right pickle brine – Dill pickle brine works best, but spicy or garlic pickles can add an extra kick!
For a sweeter drink, add a little extra simple syrup or maple syrup instead of a sugar cube.
For extra depth, try smoked bourbon – It pairs incredibly well with the tangy brine.
Love spice? Use spicy pickle brine or add a dash of hot sauce for a fiery twist!
Substitutions & Variations Pickle Bourbon Old Fashioned
Spicy Pickle Old Fashioned – Use spicy pickle brine and garnish with a pickled jalapeño.
Maple Pickle Bourbon – Swap the sugar cube for ½ oz maple syrup for a richer, smoother sweetness.
Citrus Pickle Twist – Add a splash of fresh lemon or orange juice for a brighter, zesty take.
Rye Whiskey Version – Substitute bourbon with rye whiskey for a spicier, drier drink.
Pickle Martini – Skip the sugar and bitters, and mix pickle brine with vodka or gin for a martini-style twist!
Storage Instructions Pickle Bourbon Old Fashioned
- Best enjoyed fresh! Since this cocktail is stirred and not shaken, it’s best made and served immediately.
- For batch prep, mix the bourbon, pickle brine, and bitters in advance and store in a sealed bottle in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- When ready to serve, pour over ice, stir, and garnish!
Do Not Freeze – The alcohol content prevents it from freezing properly, and fresh citrus peel loses its aroma over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does pickle brine really taste good in a cocktail?
Absolutely! The salty, tangy flavor of pickle brine adds depth and balances the sweetness of bourbon, creating a complex and delicious drink.
What type of pickles work best?
Dill pickles are the most popular choice, but you can experiment with spicy, garlic, or bread-and-butter pickles for different flavor profiles.
Can I make this drink less sweet?
Yes! Simply reduce or omit the sugar cube and let the pickle brine be the star of the show.
What’s the best bourbon for this cocktail?
Go for a smooth, slightly sweet bourbon like Buffalo Trace, Bulleit, or Maker’s Mark to complement the salty brine.
Can I use whiskey instead of bourbon?
Yes! Rye whiskey will give the cocktail a spicier, drier taste, while Scotch whisky will add a smoky element.
Conclusion Pickle Bourbon Old Fashioned
The Pickle Bourbon Old Fashioned is a cocktail that pushes boundaries and surprises your taste buds! With its bold, savory-sweet balance, smoky bourbon notes, and crisp pickle garnish, it’s the perfect drink for those who love whiskey and a little adventure.
Try it out and let me know what you think! Tag me on Pinterest or drop a comment below with your favorite pickle cocktails!
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Cheers to bold flavors and great cocktails!