What to Mix With Salted Caramel Whiskey: 6 Creative Cocktails To Try
Last updated on August 13th, 2024
When the brisk air of the holiday season rolls in, there’s no better way to warm your spirits than with a delicious salted caramel whiskey.
This boozy and decadent drink is a marriage of salt and caramel that dances on the palate, offering a unique taste experience when mixed into cocktails. The flavor combinations are endless, whether you’re looking for a creamy concoction or a crisp mix.
From the classic bourbon whiskey profiles of vanilla and oak to the effervescence of ginger ale, here are some tantalizing drink recipes to savor and share.
When the brisk air of the holiday season rolls in, there’s no better way to warm your spirits than with a delicious salted caramel whiskey.
This boozy and decadent drink is a marriage of salt and caramel that dances on the palate, offering a unique taste experience when mixed into cocktails. The flavor combinations are endless, whether you’re looking for a creamy concoction or a crisp mix.
From the classic bourbon whiskey profiles of vanilla and oak to the effervescence of ginger ale, here’s what to mix with salted caramel whiskey.
6 Salted Caramel Whiskey Cocktail Recipes
#1 Salted Caramel Apple Crisp
Embrace the autumnal vibes with a Salted Caramel Apple Crisp, a whiskey drink that combines the taste of fresh apples with a hint of creamy vanilla. This cocktail is a symphony of flavor, perfect for sipping on a crisp evening. You’ll need Ole Smoky Salty Caramel Whiskey, apple cider, vanilla extract, and a dash of lemon juice to create this delightful concoction. Serve it in a Collins glass filled with ice, and garnish with an apple slice for an extra touch of elegance.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Bird Dog Salted Caramel Flavored Whiskey
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Apple slices and cinnamon sticks for garnish
Bar Tools Required: Jigger, stirrer, knife Suggested Serving
Suggested Serving Glass: Collins glass
Best Served: Cold
#2 Salted Caramel Cream Soda
Create a nostalgic yet sophisticated treat with the Salted Caramel Cream Soda. This cocktail blends the sweet notes of cream soda with the savory depth of salted caramel whiskey, resulting in an indulgent and refreshing drink. Crown Royal Salted Caramel Whisky provides the base, while cream soda adds a delightful fizz. Serve this creamy beverage in a tall glass filled with ice, and top it with a generous dollop of whipped cream for a decadent finish.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Crown Royal Salted Caramel Whisky
- 2 cups cream soda
- Whipped cream for topping
Bar Tools Required: Jigger, spoon
Suggested Serving Glass: Tall glass
Best Served: Cold
#3 Caramel Highball
The Caramel Highball is the way to go for a simple yet satisfying sip. This whiskey drink is a testament to the versatility of salted caramel whiskey, requiring minimal ingredients but delivering maximum flavor. Just mix your favorite salted caramel whiskey with ginger ale, add a squeeze of lemon juice, and enjoy the refreshing taste of this effervescent cocktail. It’s best served in a highball glass filled with ice, ideal for casual gatherings or a relaxing night.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup salted caramel whiskey
- 2 cups ginger ale
- Splash of lemon juice
Bar Tools Required: Jigger, spoon
Suggested Serving Glass: Highball
Best Served: Cold
#4 Winter Warmer Toddy
Warm up with a Winter Warmer Toddy when the cold wind howls outside. This hot whiskey drink is a comforting blend of salted caramel whiskey, hot apple cider, and a hint of lemon juice, all brought together on medium heat. It’s the perfect companion for a cozy night by the fire. Serve it in a mug and garnish with a cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a festive touch.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup salted caramel whiskey
- 2 cups hot apple cider
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Cinnamon sticks for garnish
Bar Tools Required: Saucepan, measuring cup, spoon
Suggested Serving Glass: Mug
Best Served: Hot
#5 Salted Caramel Martini
Indulge in the elegant and velvety Salted Caramel Martini, a sophisticated cocktail perfect for dessert. This creamy martini combines salted caramel whiskey with vanilla extract and a touch of caramel sauce, shaken to perfection and poured into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a swirl of caramel sauce and a sprinkle of sea salt to elevate this sumptuous drink to new heights of decadence.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup salted caramel whiskey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons caramel sauce, plus extra for garnish
- Sea salt for garnish
Bar Tools Required: Shaker, jigger, strainer
Suggested Serving Glass: Martini glass
Best Served: Cold
#6 Caramel Orchard Old Fashioned
Take a classic to new levels with the Caramel Orchard Old Fashioned. This twist on the traditional old-fashioned infuses the deep flavors of salted caramel whiskey with the sweet and savory notes of salted caramel. Mix the whiskey with a splash of fresh apple juice and a dash of bitters, then serve it over ice in an old-fashioned glass. It’s a timeless cocktail with a modern, seasonal flair.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup salted caramel whiskey
- 1/2 cup fresh apple juice
- 2 dashes of bitters
- Apple slice for garnish
Bar Tools Required: Jigger, spoon, knife
Suggested Serving Glass: Chilled rocks glass (Tumbler)
Best Served: Cold
The 5 Best salted caramel whiskeys you should try
For those keen to dip their toes into the sweet world of salted caramel whiskies, a treasure trove of options is waiting to be explored. Each bottle tells its story, boasting unique flavor profiles and characteristics that make them perfect for sipping neat or mixing into your favorite cocktail recipes. Here’s a list of five salted caramel whiskies that will delight your palate and add a special touch to any occasion.
1. Ole Smoky Salted Caramel Flavored Whiskey
Known for its harmonious blend of salty and sweet, Ole Smoky Salted Caramel Whiskey delivers a smooth, rich flavor perfect for mixing into cocktails or enjoying on its own. The distillery is renowned for its innovative approach to flavored whiskies; this expression is no exception. Priced affordably, it offers great value for its quality and is bottled at a comfortable 30% ABV.
2. Crown Royal Salted Caramel Whisky
This limited-edition offering from the famed Canadian distillery features their signature whisky infused with the indulgent taste of salted caramel. It boasts an amber color and a velvety texture that’s sure to please any sweet tooth. With a slightly higher price point due to its seasonal availability, it’s worth the splurge for a special treat and comes in at 35% ABV.
3. Duke & Dame Salted Caramel Whiskey
A luxurious craft whiskey blend that marries a 2-year-old bourbon with 100% natural salted caramel for an impeccable hint of sweetness. Its complex, smooth, and well-balanced flavor is cherished by both aficionados and newcomers. This sophisticated whiskey can be savored neat, or enjoyed as a shot or in a cocktail, showcasing its versatility 35% ABV.
4. Foggy Mountain Salted Caramel Whiskey
This liquid gold is crafted with care and a dash of mountain magic where each sip transports you to a cozy fireside retreat. Distilled using time-honored methods passed down through generations, Foggy Mountain’s artisans infuse every drop with the essence of their mountainous home at 45% ABV.
5. Ellington Reserve Salted Caramel Whiskey
This a tantalizing blend that harmonizes the warmth of whiskey with the irresistible allure of salted caramel. With an ABV of 35%, this whiskey offers a smooth and indulgent experience, inviting you to savor every moment. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as a decadent addition to cocktails, Ellington Reserve Salted Caramel Whiskey promises to elevate any occasion with its luxurious taste.
The Best Accompaniments for Salted Caramel Whiskey
Choose the ideal snacks and small bites that enhance the rich notes of salted caramel whiskey, making for a satisfying and memorable pairing.
When sipping salted caramel whiskey, the right snack can turn a good drink into a grand experience. You’ll want to lean towards small bites that enhance the flavors without overpowering them—think cheese platters with aged gouda or dark chocolate squares that melt in your mouth, creating a rich and indulgent symphony.
Now, consider the classic combination of peanut butter and maple. They offer a unique contrast that can elevate your salted caramel whiskey to new heights. A dollop of creamy peanut butter on a warm slice of toasted, maple-drizzled bread creates an interesting pairing that will dance on your palate, bringing out the whiskey’s inherent richness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does salted caramel whiskey taste like?
Salted caramel whiskey is a delightful fusion of classic whiskey drink notes and the sweet richness of caramel sauce. Its flavor entices with its balance of sugary warmth and a pinch of salt, creating a smooth, dessert-like taste that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
2. What does salted caramel whiskey go with?
This versatile spirit pairs beautifully with various mixers, from apple cider and lemon juice to cream soda and coffee liqueur. Salted caramel whiskey can enhance your drink with its unique flavor profile, whether you prefer a tangy, fruity mix or a creamy, sweet concoction.
3. Is there sugar in salted caramel whiskey?
Yes, salted caramel whiskey typically contains sugar. It’s infused with caramel flavoring, which adds a touch of sweetness to the spirit. The amount of sugar can vary between brands and expressions, so check the label if you’re monitoring your sugar intake.
Summary
Some may call it cloying or overly sweet, but salted caramel whiskey is a delightful spirit that brings a unique twist to your drinking experience. It’s great whether you’re in the mood for a fancy dessert cocktail or simply want a sweet sipper.
Hopefully this guide has offered you a variety of ways to enjoy salted caramel whiskey, ensuring a mix or cocktail that perfectly suits your tastes.