Drinking French Orange Bitters Cocktail Recipe
As a food enthusiast and self-proclaimed cocktail lover, there's nothing quite like the fresh burst of flavor that a well-made drink can bring to a gathering. My first encounter with the French orange bitters cocktail was during a sunny afternoon BBQ with friends.
Equipment
- Glass
Ingredients
- 2 ounces rye whiskey: This is the backbone of the drink.
- 1 sugar cube or ½ teaspoon granulated sugar: This adds sweetness to balance the bold flavors.
- 1 dash Angostura bitters: This classic bitter contributes depth to the cocktail.
- 3 dashes of orange-flavored bitters: This is what gives the drink its lively zest.
- A splash of sparkling club soda: This adds a bit of effervescence.
- Large strip of orange zest: Use this for a pop of color and fragrance.
- 1 maraschino cherry: This not only makes your drink look sophisticated but also adds a touch of sweetness.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Glass
- Choose a lowball or Old Fashioned glass. I find that the right glass can elevate your drink’s appeal. Make it your own by chilling it in the refrigerator for about five minutes before you start mixing.
Step 2: Muddle the Sugar
- In your prepared glass, place your sugar cube (or granulated sugar) at the bottom. Add the dash of Angostura bitters right on top. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to mix these two ingredients. Your goal is to dissolve the sugar while combining it with the bitters. This step is crucial as it sets the foundation for the entire cocktail’s sweetness.
Step 3: Add the Rye Whiskey
- Once you have muddled the sugar and bitters, pour in the rye whiskey. The warming notes of the whiskey will blend beautifully with the bitters you’ve already added. Stir gently for a few seconds to ensure everything is well combined.
Step 4: Mix in the Orange Bitters
- Next, add three dashes of orange-flavored bitters into your glass. This part is where the magic happens. Stir again to meld the flavors together. You want the orange to be present but not overwhelming.
Step 5: Add Club Soda
- Pour a splash of sparkling club soda into the mix. This will give your drink a refreshing lift. You don’t need too much—just enough to add a little fizz. Stir gently once more to incorporate.
Step 6: Garnish
- Take your strip of orange zest and express the oils over the top of your drink by giving it a good twist. Drop it in as a garnish. It’s time to add your maraschino cherry. Nestle it into your drink for that final touch.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
- Your drink is ready to serve. Sip slowly and enjoy the wonderful balance of flavors. I always love serving this cocktail with something savory on the side, like some crunchy veggie sticks or a cheese platter, to really enhance the experience.
Notes
Here are some tips to make your cocktail experience even better:
Use quality rye whiskey: The whiskey you choose will greatly influence the drink. I prefer something with a bit of character but not too overpowering.
Flavor the sugar: For a twist, consider infusing your sugar with vanilla. It can add a delightful complexity.
Experiment with bitters: If you want to personalize this drink further, try different brands of orange bitters. Each can offer a unique profile.
Chill your ingredients: Keeping everything cold, from the whiskey to the glass, helps maintain the drink's integrity.
Presentation matters: A beautiful garnish can elevate your cocktail. Don’t skip the orange zest or cherry!
Flavor the sugar: For a twist, consider infusing your sugar with vanilla. It can add a delightful complexity.
Experiment with bitters: If you want to personalize this drink further, try different brands of orange bitters. Each can offer a unique profile.
Chill your ingredients: Keeping everything cold, from the whiskey to the glass, helps maintain the drink's integrity.
Presentation matters: A beautiful garnish can elevate your cocktail. Don’t skip the orange zest or cherry!
Nutrition
Calories: 175kcalCarbohydrates: 8gSugar: 4g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!