In the world of cocktails, few drinks are as iconic and revered as the Sazerac. This New Orleans-born beverage has been a staple on menus since the late 1800s, and its rich history and flavor profile continue to captivate mixologists and drinkers alike. The classic recipe, which combines rye whiskey, absinthe, Peychaud’s Bitters, and a sugar cube, is a timeless favorite – but why not try shaking things up (pun intended)? In this article, we’ll take 18 beloved Sazerac recipes to the next level by introducing new twists on old favorites. From spicy and smoky to sweet and herbal, these refined recipes will give you the inspiration you need to put your own spin on this NOLA classic.
Traditional New Orleans Sazerac
The Sazerac is a timeless cocktail that originated in the French Quarter of New Orleans. This recipe combines rich, bold flavors to create a truly iconic drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces rye whiskey
– 1/2 ounce absinthe
– 3 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
– Simple syrup (optional)
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the rye whiskey, absinthe, and Peychaud’s Bitters.
3. Stir for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled absinthe-rinsed (see note) Sazerac glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Note: To prepare the glass, rub a sugar cube around the inside of the glass with a lemon twist, then discard the twist and add the absinthe to coat the inside of the glass.
Cooking Time: None needed! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Rye Whiskey Sazerac with Absinthe Rinse
Experience the bold flavors of New Orleans with this Rye Whiskey Sazerac, elevated by an Absinthe rinse. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a strong whiskey flavor balanced by sweet and herbal notes.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Rye Whiskey
– 1/2 oz Simple Syrup (1:1 sugar water)
– 2 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
– 1 dash Absinthe
– Lemon twist, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine Rye Whiskey, Simple Syrup, and Peychaud’s Bitters.
2. Stir the mixture for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
3. Strain the cocktail into a chilled absinthe-rinsed glass (see below).
4. Garnish with a lemon twist.
Absinthe Rinse:
1. Place a sugar cube in a absinthe-filled glass.
2. Lightly touch a flame to the sugar, allowing it to caramelize and dissolve.
3. Add 1 dash of Absinthe to the mixture.
4. Swirl the liquid to combine.
Cooking Time: None
Cognac Sazerac with Peychaud’s Bitters
Experience the rich flavors of Cognac and Peychaud’s Bitters in this unique twist on the classic Sazerac cocktail. This drink is perfect for those who appreciate a complex, velvety texture and bold flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Cognac
– 1/2 oz Simple Syrup (1:1 sugar and water, dissolved)
– 3 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
– 1/2 oz Absinthe
– Lemon twist or peel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the Cognac, simple syrup, and Peychaud’s Bitters.
3. Stir gently for approximately 30 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Float the Absinthe on top by slowly pouring it over the back of a spoon.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or peel.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a drink recipe!
Bourbon Sazerac with Lemon Twist
The Bourbon Sazerac is a timeless New Orleans classic, combining the smoothness of bourbon with the bold flavors of anise and absinthe. This variation adds a touch of citrus with a lemon twist.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz absinthe
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– Lemon twist for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, absinthe, and simple syrup.
2. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the mixture.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled Sazerac glass filled with ice.
4. Garnish with a lemon twist, expressing its oils over the cocktail by gently squeezing it between your thumb and index finger.
Cooking Time: None (just shake, stir, and serve!)
Spiced Maple Sazerac
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique take on the classic Sazerac, featuring the warmth of spiced maple syrup and the smoothness of rye whiskey.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Rye Whiskey
– 1/2 oz Spiced Maple Syrup (see below)
– 1/2 oz Absinthe
– 1 lemon twist, for garnish
– Simple Syrup (optional)
Spiced Maple Syrup:
– 1 cup Maple Syrup
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
– 6 whole cloves
Combine maple syrup and spices in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and let steep for 10 minutes. Strain and discard solids.
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine rye whiskey, spiced maple syrup, and absinthe.
2. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for about 30 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
4. Garnish with a lemon twist.
Cooking Time: None
Herbal Sazerac with Star Anise
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique twist on the classic Sazerac, featuring star anise and a hint of herbal flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz absinthe
– 1 oz rye whiskey
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (infused with star anise)
– 2 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
– Lemon twist, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine absinthe, rye whiskey, and simple syrup.
2. Add ice to the mixing glass and stir for approximately 30 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
4. Add Peychaud’s Bitters and stir briefly.
5. Express a lemon twist over the drink and use as garnish.
Cooking Time: None required! This is a cocktail recipe, not a cooking recipe.
Smoked Sazerac with Mezcal
This recipe puts a bold spin on the traditional Sazerac cocktail by substituting whiskey with smoky mezcal and adding a hint of smoked ice. The result is a complex, intriguing drink that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Mezcal
– 1/2 oz Simple Syrup (infused with liquid smoke)
– 2 dashes of Peychaud’s Bitters
– 1 dash of Angostura Bitters
– 1 sugar cube (optional)
– Ice
– Rye whiskey cherries for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine Mezcal, Simple Syrup, and Peychaud’s Bitters.
2. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
4. Add Angostura Bitters and garnish with a sugar cube (if using) and rye whiskey cherries.
Cooking Time: None
Honey Lavender Sazerac
This sweet and floral twist on the classic Sazerac cocktail is perfect for those looking to add a touch of elegance to their evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz rye whiskey
– 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz lavender syrup (see below)
– 2 dashes absinthe
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Lavender Syrup:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
– Combine sugar and water in a saucepan, stirring until 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 cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Enjoy your unique Honey Lavender Sazerac!
Orange-Infused Sazerac
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique twist on the classic Sazerac, featuring the brightness of orange and the warmth of bourbon.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz absinthe
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Orange peel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the bourbon, absinthe, orange juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled Sazerac glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with an orange peel, twisted to release its oils.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe, so no cooking required.
Black Walnut Bitters Sazerac
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique take on the classic Sazerac, featuring the rich flavor of black walnut bitters. This drink is perfect for those looking to add some complexity and depth to their evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz rye whiskey
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 2 dashes black walnut bitters
– 1/2 oz absinthe
– Lemon twist, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine rye whiskey, simple syrup, and black walnut bitters.
2. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled absinthe-rinsed Sazerac glass.
4. Add absinthe to the glass by pouring it slowly over the back of a spoon to create a layered effect.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Vanilla Bean Sazerac
A modern twist on the classic New Orleans cocktail, this Vanilla Bean Sazerac combines the rich flavors of vanilla and coffee with the bold spirit of rye whiskey.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces rye whiskey
– 1/2 ounce simple syrup (infused with 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract)
– 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 ounce coffee liqueur
– 1 dash of absinthe
– Vanilla bean, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the rye whiskey, simple syrup, lemon juice, and coffee liqueur to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for approximately 10-12 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Place a dash of absinthe on top of the cocktail.
6. Garnish with a vanilla bean.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Cherry-Infused Sazerac
Elevate your cocktail game with this sweet and tangy twist on the classic Sazerac. This Cherry-Infused Sazerac is perfect for warm weather or any occasion where you want a refreshing drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Rye Whiskey
– 1/2 oz Simple Syrup (infused with cherry juice)
– 1/2 oz Peychaud’s Bitters
– 1/2 oz Cherry Liqueur
– Lemon twist, for garnish
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the Rye Whiskey, Simple Syrup, and Peychaud’s Bitters.
3. Stir for 20-30 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled absinthe-rinsed rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Drizzle the Cherry Liqueur over the back of a spoon to create a layered effect.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)
Enjoy your delicious Cherry-Infused Sazerac!
Rosemary-Infused Sazerac
A classic New Orleans cocktail just got a fragrant boost from the herbaceous world of rosemary. This unique take on the Sazerac combines the bold flavors of rye whiskey, absinthe, and Peychaud’s Bitters with the piney essence of rosemary, creating a truly memorable drinking experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz rye whiskey
– 1/2 oz absinthe
– 1/2 oz Simple Syrup (infused with 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary)
– 2 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add rye whiskey, absinthe, and Simple Syrup to the mixing glass.
3. Add Peychaud’s Bitters and stir for about 30 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and enjoy!)
Demerara Sugar Sazerac
Experience the rich flavors of New Orleans with this classic cocktail, elevated by the subtle caramel notes of Demerara sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Rye Whiskey
– 1/2 oz Simple Syrup (Demerara sugar and water)
– 3 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
– 1/2 slice Lemon, cut into a thin wheel
– Absinthe (for rinse)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine Rye Whiskey, Simple Syrup, and Peychaud’s Bitters.
2. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the mixture.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled Sazerac Cocktail Glass (or a Nick & Nora).
4. Express a thin wheel of lemon peel over the cocktail, then place it in the drink.
5. Rinse the Absinthe-coated rim of the glass with a small amount of water to remove excess sugar.
Cooking Time: None
Peppermint Twist Sazerac
Combine the classic Sazerac with a refreshing twist of peppermint to create a unique and revitalizing cocktail.
Ingredients:
• 2 oz Absinthe
• 1 oz Rye Whiskey
• 1/2 oz Simple Syrup (infused with peppermint extract)
• 1/2 oz Freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 dashes of Peychaud’s Bitters
• Ice
• Lemon twist, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add Absinthe, Rye Whiskey, Simple Syrup, and lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Add 2 dashes of Peychaud’s Bitters.
4. Shake vigorously for approximately 10-12 seconds.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)
Ginger-Infused Sazerac
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique take on the classic Sazerac, infused with the warmth of ginger. This recipe combines the bold flavors of rye whiskey, Peychaud’s Bitters, and absinthe with the spicy kick of fresh ginger.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz rye whiskey
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 2 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
– 1/2 oz absinthe
– Slice of fresh ginger (about 1 inch)
– Ice
– Lemon twist or cherry, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the rye whiskey, simple syrup, and fresh ginger slice.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and let infuse for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture has reduced slightly and the flavors have melded together.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass filled with ice.
4. Add the Peychaud’s Bitters and absinthe, stirring gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or cherry.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cardamom-Infused Sazerac
In this recipe, we’re adding a unique twist to the classic Sazerac by infusing it with the warm, aromatic flavor of cardamom. The result is a complex and intriguing cocktail that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Rye Whiskey
– 1/2 oz Simple Syrup
– 3 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
– 1/2 teaspoon ground Cardamom
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine rye whiskey, simple syrup, and cardamom.
2. Add ice to the mixing glass and stir for approximately 30 seconds to infuse the flavors.
3. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
4. Add Peychaud’s Bitters and stir gently.
5. Express a lemon twist or wheel over the drink, then use as garnish.
Cooking Time: None required! Just chill and serve.
Chocolate Bitters Sazerac
Elevate your cocktail game with this indulgent twist on the classic Sazerac. The addition of rich chocolate bitters creates a deep, velvety flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz rye whiskey
– 1/2 oz absinthe
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 3 dashes chocolate bitters
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine rye whiskey, absinthe, and simple syrup.
2. Add 3 dashes of chocolate bitters and fill the glass with ice.
3. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Express a lemon twist over the drink and use as garnish.
Cooking Time: None
Summary
Elevate your cocktail game with these 18 refined Sazerac recipes. From traditional New Orleans-style to innovative twists, each variation offers a unique spin on this classic drink. Try the Rye Whiskey Sazerac with Absinthe Rinse for a bold flavor or the Spiced Maple Sazerac for a warm and comforting taste. Alternatively, indulge in the Herbal Sazerac with Star Anise for a fragrant and complex flavor profile. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or just looking to try something new, these recipes are sure to impress.
