When it comes to cooking, there’s nothing quite like the rich, complex flavor of whiskey. Whether you’re a fan of bourbon, scotch, or Irish whiskey, incorporating this spirit into your dishes can elevate them to new heights. And what better way to do that than with a collection of bold, smoky recipes that will leave your taste buds singing?
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 different whiskey-based recipes that are sure to tantalize your senses. From classic BBQ ribs glazed in whiskey and spices to decadent chocolate cake infused with bourbon, there’s something for every whiskey lover on this list. So grab a glass of your favorite whiskey (or two, or three…), get cooking, and let the smoky magic begin!
Whiskey Glazed BBQ Ribs
Get ready to fall in love with the sweet and sticky flavors of these Whiskey Glazed BBQ Ribs! This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a casual gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs
– 1/4 cup whiskey (such as bourbon or scotch)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– BBQ sauce, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together whiskey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, honey, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (this will help them cook more evenly).
4. Brush the whiskey glaze all over the ribs, making sure to coat them evenly.
5. Place the ribs on the grill or smoker, bone-side down.
6. Cook for 2-3 hours, or until the ribs are tender and caramelized.
7. Serve with BBQ sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Bourbon Whiskey Chocolate Cake
Rich, mocha-flavored cake infused with the smoothness of bourbon whiskey, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey (at least 80 proof)
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line bottoms with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, milk, eggs, bourbon whiskey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval. Allow to cool slightly.
6. Fold the melted chocolate into the cake batter until well combined.
7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth tops.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Irish Whiskey Beef Stew
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful stew that combines tender beef, root vegetables, and the richness of Irish whiskey.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup Irish whiskey (such as Jameson or Tullamore DEW)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Add more oil if needed, then sauté the onion and garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the carrots and potatoes; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the whiskey, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pot, cover, and simmer over low heat for 1 1/2 hours or until the meat is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Whiskey Caramel Apple Pie
This rich and decadent pie combines the warmth of whiskey with the comfort of caramel apples, perfect for a chilly fall evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whiskey-infused caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pie crust, homemade or store-bought
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
3. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Fill pie crust with apple mixture and drizzle with whiskey-infused caramel sauce.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoky Whiskey BBQ Sauce
Add a rich, velvety texture and bold flavors to your BBQ with this Smoky Whiskey BBQ Sauce. Perfect for slathering on ribs, chicken, or pork, this sauce is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup whiskey (such as bourbon or scotch)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, whiskey, brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat, whisking occasionally.
4. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Whiskey Infused Pulled Pork
Transform your pulled pork with a rich whiskey infusion that adds depth and complexity to this classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together whiskey, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or a slow cooker.
5. Cook the pork for 8-10 hours or overnight, until it’s tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Remove the pork from the heat and let it rest for 15 minutes before shredding.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Maple Whiskey Bacon Jam
Elevate your brunch game with this sweet and savory jam that combines the richness of maple syrup, whiskey, and crispy bacon. Perfect for topping toast, eggs, or using as a glaze for meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pure Canadian maple syrup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup whiskey (such as bourbon or rye)
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine maple syrup, brown sugar, whiskey, and apple cider vinegar.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking occasionally.
3. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the jam has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in crumbled bacon and smoked paprika.
5. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Whiskey Sour Cocktail Cupcakes
These moist and flavorful cupcakes combine the tanginess of a Whiskey Sour cocktail with the richness of vanilla cake. Perfect for adults-only gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons whiskey (such as Jameson or Jack Daniel’s)
– Whiskey sour glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the whiskey and whisk until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Whiskey Sour Glaze:
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons whiskey
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Mix glaze ingredients until smooth and drizzle over cooled cupcakes.
Peach Whiskey Grilled Chicken
Add a sweet and tangy twist to your grilled chicken with this easy recipe. Marinated in a mixture of peach preserves, whiskey, and spices, these chicken breasts are perfect for a summer barbecue or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup peach preserves
– 2 tablespoons whiskey (such as bourbon or Tennessee whiskey)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together peach preserves, whiskey, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Whiskey Butter Pecan Ice Cream
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and creamy Whiskey Butter Pecan Ice Cream, featuring the smooth flavors of whiskey and butter paired with crunchy pecans.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp whiskey (such as bourbon or scotch)
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, softened butter, and whiskey until fully incorporated.
3. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add chopped pecans and continue to churn until they are evenly distributed.
6. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (cooling time not included)
Spicy Whiskey Chili
Spicy Whiskey Chili Recipe
Warm up with a bowl of spicy whiskey chili that combines bold flavors and a hint of sophistication. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or as a unique offering at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup whiskey (bourbon or scotch work well)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 jalapeños, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the whiskey, diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with sliced jalapeños if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Whiskey Marinated Flank Steak
Elevate your grilling game with this rich and savory whiskey-marinated flank steak recipe, perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner. The bold flavors of whiskey, soy sauce, and spices will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) flank steak
– 1/4 cup whiskey (such as bourbon or scotch)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large zip-top plastic bag, combine whiskey, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the flank steak to the marinade, turning to coat evenly.
3. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Let the steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vanilla Whiskey Bread Pudding
Warm up with a rich and comforting Vanilla Whiskey Bread Pudding, perfect for a cozy night in or as a special treat. This indulgent dessert combines the comforting flavors of bread pudding with the smoothness of vanilla and whiskey.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons whiskey (such as bourbon or scotch)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and whiskey.
4. Pour wet ingredients over dry ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish; cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
7. Remove foil; bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until top is golden brown.
8. Serve warm, dusting with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cook Time: 55-65 minutes
Whiskey Candied Bacon
Sweeten your taste buds with this indulgent recipe that combines the richness of whiskey and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons whiskey (such as bourbon or scotch)
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, whiskey, maple syrup, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Add the bacon pieces to the bowl and toss until coated evenly with the whiskey mixture.
4. Arrange the bacon on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bacon is caramelized and crispy, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Whiskey Cream Sauce for Pasta
Whiskey Cream Sauce for Pasta: Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy sauce infused with the smoothness of whiskey!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup whiskey (such as Jameson or Jack Daniel’s)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream, whisking constantly.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Dijon mustard, whiskey, salt, and pepper.
6. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
7. Toss cooked pasta with the whiskey cream sauce and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Whiskey Mac and Cheese
Smoked Whiskey Mac and Cheese: A Rich and Decadent Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
This indulgent macaroni dish combines the creaminess of mac and cheese with the smoky depth of whiskey, perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar
– 1 cup grated mozzarella
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup whiskey (optional, but highly recommended!)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni al dente; set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add flour and whisk until smooth; cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly; bring to simmer.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and smoked paprika.
7. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce; stir in whiskey (if using).
8. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Whiskey Ginger Glazed Salmon
Elevate your salmon game with this rich and flavorful recipe that combines the warmth of whiskey, the spiciness of ginger, and the sweetness of brown sugar. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup whiskey (bourbon or scotch work well)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together whiskey, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over each fillet.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Whiskey Pecan Pie Bars
Whiskey Pecan Pie Bars: Rich and buttery bars infused with the smoothness of whiskey and the crunch of pecans.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons whiskey (such as bourbon or scotch)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and brown sugar.
3. Add melted butter, heavy cream, whiskey, and vanilla extract. Stir until combined.
4. Fold in chopped pecans.
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these 18 bold whiskey recipes! From sweet treats like Bourbon Whiskey Chocolate Cake and Whiskey Caramel Apple Pie, to savory dishes like Irish Whiskey Beef Stew and Smoked Whiskey Mac and Cheese, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to add a smoky twist to classic BBQ ribs or create a unique cocktail-inspired cupcake, these recipes will guide you every step of the way.
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