Classic Bourbon Manhattan Cocktail Recipe cooked to perfection, served on a plate - Yumaroma Save Pin

Classic Bourbon Manhattan Cocktail Recipe

Smooth classic Bourbon Manhattan cocktail made with Kentucky bourbon, sweet vermouth, Angostura bitters, and Luxardo cherries.

Prep Time 5 min
Cook Time 0 min
Servings 1
Difficulty Easy
Calories 180 kcal
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Whether you need a reviving midday refresher or an impressive pour for guests, this Classic Bourbon Manhattan Cocktail Recipe hits the mark every time. Highlighting kentucky bourbon whiskey, sweet red vermouth and angostura aromatic bitters, it balances vibrant natural flavors in under 5 min for pure liquid refreshment.

Ingredients

1 servings
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Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Stir Spirits with Ice (3 Min)

In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters. Stir with long spoon for 30 seconds until chilled.

2

Strain into Coupe Glass (2 Min)

Strain liquid into a chilled coupe or martini glass.

3

Garnish & Serve (1 Min)

Garnish with a Luxardo maraschino cherry and expressed orange peel twist!

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Chef Amara’s Kitchen Secrets & Pro Tips

  • Stir Don't Shake: Always stir Manhattans with ice to maintain silky clarity without air bubbles.
  • Luxardo Cherries: Use real Luxardo maraschino cherries for rich syrup sweetness.

1. Use Fresh, Solid Ice: Avoid hollow or cloudy ice cubes that melt rapidly and water down your drink. Large, solid ice chills efficiently while maintaining ideal dilution and crisp flavor. 2. Zest Before You Squeeze: The citrus peel contains natural aromatic essential oils that provide brighter flavor than juice alone. Microplane the colorful zest first, then roll and juice the fruit at room temperature. 3. Chef's Kitchen Secret: Stir Don't Shake: Always stir Manhattans with ice to maintain silky clarity without air bubbles.

Chef’s Cooking Guide & FAQs

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Troubleshooting & Quick Fixes

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  • What if My Classic Bourbon Manhattan Cocktail Recipe Tastes Overly Sweet?: Brighten with a fresh squeeze of lemon or lime juice, or stir in a splash of chilled soda water or tonic to cut cloying sugar notes and restore crisp balance.
  • Why Does My Drink Taste Watery?: If drinks sit too long over small ice, excessive dilution mutes the flavor. Use large solid ice cubes and shake or stir vigorously for only 12–15 seconds before straining immediately.
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Storage, Freezing & Reheating Guidelines

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Best served immediately for optimal carbonation and temperature. If preparing a party batch without sparkling liquids, mix bases up to 24 hours in advance and keep chilled in a sealed glass pitcher. Add fresh ice and bubbly liquids right at serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Q: Can I prepare this as a non-alcoholic mocktail? A: Absolutely. Replace spirits with premium zero-proof botanical spirits, flavored kombucha, or craft club soda.

Q: Can this recipe be scaled for large party crowds? A: Yes! Simply multiply all measurements by 6 or 8 and chill in a large glass beverage dispenser.

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Step 1 of 3

Stir Spirits with Ice (3 Min)

In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters. Stir with long spoon for 30 seconds until chilled.

Timer 00:00