Calories:200
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:15g
Alcohol content:30%
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: January 7, 2024
The Gingerbread Manhattan is a delightful twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail. This festive variant incorporates the warm, spicy flavors of gingerbread, making it a favorite during the holiday season or for anyone who enjoys a touch of sweetness with their whiskey.
The Gingerbread Manhattan offers a harmonious blend of sweet and spicy, with the gingerbread syrup providing a comforting warmth. The whiskey's inherent richness is complemented by the herbal notes of the sweet vermouth, while the bitters bring a depth that balances the sweetness, resulting in a complex, full-bodied cocktail.
A few good options for Gingerbread Manhattan are:
Rye whiskey adds a spicy, grainy kick, which is the backbone of our Gingerbread Manhattan. Think of it as the foundation of a gingerbread house—without it, it's just not as sturdy or spicy. Go less, and your cocktail might be too sweet; go more, and you might overpower the other flavors.
Sweet vermouth brings herbal and slightly sweet notes, like a mother's hug in this Christmasy concoction. If omitted, you'd miss out on the complexity and the smooth partnership it forms with the rye.
This syrup is the 'gingerbread' of the cocktail—it ties in that signature holiday flavor. Less syrup, less cheer; no syrup, and it's just not a Gingerbread Manhattan. You could substitute with a cinnamon syrup for a less ginger-forward variant.
A Christmas tree without ornaments—boring, right? That's your Manhattan without the Angostura bitters. It adds depth and spice, and skipping it would leave your cocktail rather flat. A few extra dashes won't hurt if you like it spicier.
The cherry on top —literally. It's not just for looks; it adds a touch of sweetness and fruitiness. Without it, the cocktail is still good, but you miss that final, satisfying note.
Aged cheeses like Gouda or Cheddar complement the spicy notes of the rye and the sweetness from the vermouth and gingerbread syrup.
Pair with light, airy desserts such as vanilla bean panna cotta or an apple tart. Avoid overly sweet desserts that might compete with the cocktail’s flavor.
Consider classic bar snacks like mixed nuts or prosciutto-wrapped melon that echo the cocktail's complex flavors without overpowering them.
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Swap out gingerbread syrup for maple syrup to bring a woodsy, autumnal twist to the drink. It will be less ginger-spicy and more sweet-nutty.
Stir in a spoonful of cocoa with the sweet vermouth to add a chocolatey depth. The drink will have a dessert-like quality, with a rich velvety finish.
Add a dash of orange bitters with the Angostura and garnish with an orange twist. This invites a citrus note that brightens up the spices and adds a zesty fragrance.
Place your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
Learn everything on how to strainInsert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.
Learn everything on how to stirGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
Learn everything on garnishingIf you want to drink something else - you can use our AI-augmented search to find the best cocktail for you!
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Yes, you can replace the rye whiskey with a non-alcoholic spirit alternative, and use a non-alcoholic sweet vermouth substitute to mimic the cocktail's flavor profile.
A chilled coupe or martini glass is traditionally used for Manhattans and would be suitable for the Gingerbread Manhattan.
Combine equal parts water and sugar in a saucepan, add ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, simmer until the sugar is dissolved, then strain and cool.
Yes, with a high percentage of rye whiskey, it is considered a strong drink. Drink responsibly.
Store homemade gingerbread syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Absolutely! Combine the ingredients in a large quantity, keeping the same ratios, and serve in a pitcher or punch bowl with ice on the side.
Clear, large ice cubes are ideal as they melt slower and minimize dilution, preserving the flavor.
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