Do you have a few neglected bottles of liquor gathering dust in a cabinet? Since I like the idea of spirits more than I actually like to sip them, my tiny selection of whiskeys and liqueurs is neglected most of the time. This winter, I’ve decided to get creative with the spirits languishing on my bar cart, and I’m inviting you along for the ride! In the next few months, my Creative Spirits series will provide straightforward beverage recipes made with accessible ingredients. For those of us who aren’t likely to serve stronger alcohols, I will develop recipes that incorporate modest amounts of whiskeys and liqueurs to complement other ingredients in the drinks. This is not a time to pull out your finest bourbons. Aim for reliable middle-of-the road spirits that are appropriate for mixing, rather than your expensive bottles that should be saved for tasting.
Let’s begin with my Maple Pecan Tea Toddy. I suggest serving this as a soothing dessert on a chilly night. I begin by preparing Southern Pecan Black Tea and adding maple syrup, a little bourbon, and finishing it off with a cinnamon stick. Easy as pie. Happy Holidays!
Inspirations
Having fun with iced tea garnishes
Sparkling Apple Spice Tea Cocktail