Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a drink that's both comforting and sophisticated? Then look no further! This recipe for an Ole Smoky Salty Caramel Whiskey drink is the perfect blend of sweet, smoky, and salty – a delightful experience in every sip. It's incredibly easy to make, perfect for a cozy night in, or impressing guests at your next gathering. This is one of those delicious dishes that's surprisingly simple to create, making it a fantastic option for homemade cooking, even for those new to mixology.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Ole Smoky Tennessee Whisky (or your favorite whiskey)
- 1 oz Salty Caramel Sauce (store-bought or homemade – recipe below!)
- 0.5 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- 4 oz Club Soda or Sparkling Water
- Ice Cubes
- Caramel Drizzle (for garnish)
- Sea Salt Flakes (for garnish)
- Lemon Twist (for garnish)
Homemade Salty Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
Making the Salty Caramel Sauce:
- Combine sugar and water: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and water. Do not stir. Let the sugar dissolve and caramelize, swirling the pan occasionally until it turns a deep amber color. Be careful not to burn it!
- Add cream and butter: Carefully pour in the heavy cream (it will bubble up!). Stir until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and salt until fully incorporated.
- Cool and store: Let the caramel cool completely before using. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will thicken as it cools.
Making the Ole Smoky Salty Caramel Whiskey Drink:
- Chill your glass: Place a rocks glass in the freezer for 10-15 minutes to chill.
- Combine ingredients: In a shaker filled with ice, combine the whiskey, salty caramel sauce, and lemon juice.
- Shake well: Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well-chilled.
- Strain and serve: Strain the mixture into your chilled glass filled with ice.
- Top with soda: Top with club soda or sparkling water.
- Garnish: Drizzle with extra caramel, sprinkle with sea salt flakes, and add a lemon twist for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips for the Best Drink:
- Use quality ingredients: The better the whiskey and caramel, the better your drink will taste.
- Don't over-shake: Over-shaking can make your drink watery. 15 seconds is usually sufficient.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the amount of caramel sauce.
- Experiment with variations: Try different types of whiskey or add a splash of your favorite liqueur.
Variations:
- Spicy Caramel Whiskey: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the caramel sauce for a spicy kick.
- Apple Cider Caramel Whiskey: Replace the club soda with apple cider for a warm autumnal twist.
- Espresso Caramel Whiskey: Add a shot of espresso for a sophisticated and caffeinated cocktail.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Please note that nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. This is an estimate and should not be considered a precise calculation. Consult a nutrition calculator for more accurate results using your specific ingredients.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: High (due to caramel and cream)
- Sugar: High (due to caramel)
This recipe offers a quick dinner idea, transforming a simple drink into a delicious and easy-to-make treat. Perfect for those looking for healthy meals that don't sacrifice flavor, this salty caramel whiskey drink is sure to become a new favorite amongst your best recipes. Enjoy responsibly!