Mid Century Recipes

Elevate your cocktail experience and savor the taste of fall in a glass with the Maple Manhattan. It's a sweet and warm cocktail for cool autumn nights, and might just be the perfect Manhattan.

One Little Change Has a Big Impact

Now that the weather has turned chilly, a cool evening is the perfect time for a strong cocktail. This fall cocktail recipe is a variation on the classic Manhattan cocktail. No one seems to be quite sure where this variation started. I like to think it was created by a bartender at one of the small ski lodges off the slopes in Vermont. I've read that it may have started at The 21 Club in New York, but who really knows?

Many recipes call for 2 ounces rye whiskey, but I prefer to stick pretty close to the original recipe and use Bourbon. I do slightly change things up by calling for a spicy Bourbon, such as Henry McKenna Single Barrel.

What Is Maple Syrup?

Pure Maple syrup is made from the tree sap of the sugar maple and various other maple trees. When we lived in the midwest, our house sat on a couple of acres in a forest that had many sugar maples. One of our neighbors used to tap the trees in our area by drilling holes in them and attaching plastic tubing that drained the sap into small barrels. Once he'd collected enough, he would then spend a day boiling it down in his backyard to form the syrup. Since we always let him tap our trees, he'd give us some free bottles of it. One of my favorite things to use it for was making a maple Manhattan. Now that live in LA, we just buy syrup at the store like everybody else -- and it's pricey!

Our friends to the north in Canada are the world's leading producers of maple syrup, and developed a grading system that we have adopted here in the US. It can be a bit confusing, but try to purchase a Grade A Light Amber for a quality tasting syrup. Be sure to choose genuine maple syrup and not maple flavored pancake syrup -- they are not the same thing. The maple flavored syrup is basically a sugar syrup with artificial flavoring in it. It's much less expensive and has an inferior taste to the real thing.

If you really want to splurge, treat yourself to the Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon Barrel-Aged Maple Syrup. This is a pure infused maple syrup with the flavors of vanilla, caramel, butter, and oak, and will definitely elevate your cocktail experience!

Ingredients for a Maple Manhattan

If you are a regular Manhattan drinker, you probably already have everything you need to make this one.

• Your favorite Bourbon, or if you prefer, Knob Creek Rye
• Sweet vermouth (not dry vermouth)
• Maple syrup (which takes the place of a simple syrup)
• Bitters
• Maraschino cherry

As you can see, it is not that different from a classic Manhattan cocktail or even an Old Fashioned.

Bar Tools Needed

Like a traditional Manhattan, this cocktail is popular because it is so easy to make --and simple cocktails are the best cocktails. It doesn't 'require' any special tools, but here are a few basics your bar most likely already has that will make a good drink every time out:

• Cocktail shaker instead of a mixing glass
• Jigger
• Strainer
• Bar spoon

How to Serve this Cocktail

A note about the glass for a Maple Manhattan:  I've seen many places serve it in a cocktail glass or a rocks glass, but I've always preferred to drink this in a coupe glass. Because the glass is stemmed, my hand doesn't warm it up and the broad bowl lets me enjoy the smell of the drink and really engage my senses.

Tips for Success

It's hard to go wrong with a classic whiskey drink, but here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Use a quality Bourbon when mixing cocktails. Even with a sweet syrup, a poor spirit will shine through and turn your cocktail into a harsh-tasting near-miss.
• Use a higher graded maple syrup. It will cost more, but it will have even better flavor.

Which do you prefer in your Maple Manhattan, Rye or Bourbon? There are some places that make this drink with a slight twist, the Maple Bacon Manhattan, but I find adding bacon to a cocktail makes it a bit too savory for my tastes.

Before you go, did you try this cocktail? Why not leave a comment in the Comments section along with a rating? I always appreciate hearing from you and getting your feedback.

A Maple Manhattan is Sweet Take on a Classic Cocktail

Kevin Mayfield

The sweet-tasting Maple Syrup Manhattan is perfect on cold winter nights.

5 from 3 votes

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Prep Time 2 minutes mins

Total Time 2 minutes mins

Course Classic Cocktails

Cuisine American

Servings 1 Cocktail

Calories 172 kcal

Ingredients

 

US CustomaryMetric

 

1x2x3x

• 1 jigger Bourbon
• ½ Ounce Sweet Vermouth
• 1 Tablespoon Maple Syrup
• 2-3 dashes Angostura Bitters
• 1-2 Luxardo Cherries

Instructions

 

• Add one scoop of fresh ice to a cocktail shaker
• Pour in all ingredients 
• Shake for about 20 seconds and then strain into a cocktail or coupe glass
• Garnish with a Luxardo Cherry

Notes

Feel free to use rye whiskey rather than Bourbon. Bulleit makes a good one.

Nutrition

Calories: 172kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 1gSodium: 2mgPotassium: 46mgSugar: 12gCalcium: 22mgIron: 1mg

Keyword Manhattan, Manhattan Variations, Maple Manhattan, Winter Cocktails

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There's really nothing like sipping on a Bourbon and Honey Hot Toddy before turning in on a cold winter night. Whether you're trying to warm up, or need to soothe a sore throat and cough, this will become one of your favorite Bourbon cocktails on chilly evenings.

A Victorian Medicinal Treatment that Tastes Great

A nice classic cocktail that is also a warm drink, or hot toddy, on a cold night (or cold day) is perfect for relaxing -- hot fire in the fireplace is optional!

The word toddy likely evolved from the 17th century Hindi word taddy, meaning a fermented beverage. However, some say it was named after a London physician who dispensed a recipe for a hot drink made with spirits. Either way, it was a good idea and we can all agree that this warming drink works as it's supposed to, and for that we can all be thankful!

Mixing spirits with hot water was thought to be a treatment for many mid-18th century Victorian-era cold symptoms such as a sore throat, common cold, or even a toothache. There may actually be a little bit truth to the claim it was a medicinal aid. The vitamin C from the strip of lemon peel was beneficial, and certainly the alcohol acted to numb pain. Also, the honey coated the throat, and the heat could clear the sinuses as well as any chamomile tea or black tea could. Instead of aspirin, the Victorians reached for a hot whiskey drink as cold medicine. It was the best bedtime solution when they didn't feel well and didn't get sick days.

Whether it was used as a cure-all drink or a pleasant way to end a long day, this hot cocktail has had staying power for over two hundred years because it is truly the perfect winter drink.

Finding The Classic Hot Toddy Recipe in Mid Century

Tennessee Williams referenced the bourbon hot toddy cocktail in his 1954 book Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, when main character Brick Pollitt indulges in the whiskey cocktail. But that isn't the only time the hot toddy made an appearance in mid century -- it was a popular cold weather drink of that era. If you have any doubt, just look in antique stores or online for vintage hot toddy glass mugs. They were a staple of the 1950's and 60's and are still readily available. They're perfect for hot tea, hot apple cider or other winter cocktails. I recently picked up a great set of vintage, stamped Federal hot toddy glasses with a display rack. And it's no big surprise that I've been putting them to good use for this hot toddy drink (just last night, in fact!)

Ingredients for a Hot Toddy

There's nothing to mixing up a mug of this warm cup of comfort. Aside from your favorite mug, you'll need:

• Hot filtered water
• Your favorite type of whiskey such as Bourbon whiskey, Irish whiskey, or even rye whiskey (however, I believe Bourbon is the best liquor to use.)
• Local honey if you can find a good one in your local grocery store
• Fresh lemon juice and a lemon wedge for garnish
• Cinnamon stick

You can add other whole spices like star anise pods, nutmeg, ground cloves or whole cloves for extra flavor. That changes the taste of the drink too much for me, so I like to stick to the basics on the recipe card. However, it's good to have these options on hand to cater to different preferences when serving hot toddies at a holiday party.

Bar Tools Needed

You don't need any fancy bar tools to make this cocktail, but you will need to borrow some kitchen basics:

• Pot or tea kettle for heating the water (I like to "cheat" and use an electric kettle such as this one)
• 2 Drinking mugs or one large mug (or try an insulated heatproof mug)
• Mixing glass
• Bar knife
• Bar spoon
• Jigger

How to Make a Delicious Hot Toddy

This hot toddy recipe is so easy that even at the end of a long day, you'll still have plenty of energy to make it. So throw away the tea bag and follow these simple steps for a comforting evening drink:

• Heat the water to just below boiling
• Pour into the mixing glass
• Add the honey
• Add the lemon
• Add a couple of ounces of Bourbon
• Stir with a cinnamon stick until well mixed and the honey is dissolved
• Pour into mugs
• Garnish with a lemon slice or lemon wedge, and even a cinnamon stick and a couple of cranberries if you like.

Tips for a Successful Hot Toddy

Here are a few pointers to keep in mind:

• Start out easy with amount of tart lemon juice you use. I recommend starting with a little and adding more as you taste-test, otherwise it may be too tart.
• I recommend using honey, because honey dissolves well and is so soothing. Some people like to use maple syrup or brown sugar. I would not recommend a simple syrup made from Demerara sugar for this drink, though. I'd also skip the agave nectar. Both of those are too sweet.
• Choose a quality base spirit when making this, or any other cocktails. I usually prefer a wheated Bourbon such as Maker's Mark because it is sweet and not overpowering. Of course, Buffalo Trace Bourbon makes for a great option as an every day mixer as well, so that's the one I usually reach for.
• If you like a little spice in your whiskey, don't be afraid to try a Bourbon like Basil Hayden's, which has a high-rye content to give it a little kick. If you do prefer rye as your favorite whiskey, try Bulleit rye in this comforting cocktail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Similar Cocktails

If you'd like to try some other recipes to keep you warm, try a Hot Buttered Bourbon for special bedtime treat. And you can't beat an Egg Nog to get in the wintertime spirit!

Do you drink a hot toddy for its medicinal qualities? Which alcohol do you use, Bourbon, rye, dark rum or brandy?

Before you go, did you try this cocktail? Why not leave a comment in the comments section along with a rating? I always appreciate hearing from you and getting your feedback.

Easy Bourbon Hot Toddy

Kevin Mayfield

A wonderful, warm hot toddy is perfect for soothing a cold, or for just relaxing on a cold night!

5 from 2 votes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 2 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 7 minutes mins

Course Classic Cocktails

Cuisine American

Servings 2 Mugs

Calories 72 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1-½ cups hot water
• 2 oz Bourbon
• ¼ oz fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 cinnamon stick
• lemon rounds for garnish

Instructions

 

• Add hot water to a mixing glass.
• Add the honey.
• Add the lemon juice.
• Add the Bourbon--stir with a cinnamon stick to dissolve the honey.
• Pour into mugs
• Add lemon rounds and serve

Notes

You may want to experiment a little with the lemon juice. Start small and add more as you go. It can be strong and overpower the other ingredients.

Feel free to use other spirits such as rye or brandy to give it a spicier taste.

If you like the drink with more lemon flavor, add a slice or two of lemon peel to the hot water while simmering.

Nutrition

Calories: 72kcalCarbohydrates: 19gProtein: 1gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 4mgPotassium: 26mgFiber: 1gSugar: 17gVitamin A: 6IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 21mgIron: 1mg

Keyword 1950's cocktails, 1960's cocktails, cat in a hot tin room cocktails, cocktail cures, hot toddy, madmen cocktails, mid century cocktails, warm bourbon cocktails, Winter Cocktails, winter drinks

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If you're looking for a delicious hot cocktail to keep you toasty as temperatures drop during winter nights, look no further than an old fashioned spicy Butter Bourbon cocktail. This mixture of just the right whiskey (Bourbon), and a hot butter batter is a favorite of whiskey lovers--especially during holiday gatherings.

Hot Butter Bourbon is Part of American History

In Colonial America it was not unusual to serve up a hearty, hot buttered rum drink for its perceived health benefits. Over the years this classic cocktail evolved, featuring different spirits including rye whiskey, and my favorite, Bourbon. It is a customary drink to warm up with on chilly nights, and has become one of our favorite Christmas cocktails. After you taste it, you'll put down the hot chocolate and hot toddies on a cold winter night, and make one of these instead.

Hot buttered drinks came back in favor in the mid century era after the 1937 novel Northwest Passage was published, which referenced it several times. It became a staple in the Tiki drink era, too. But this hot buttered Bourbon recipe is a classic winter cocktail and will give the hot apple cider and classic hot toddy recipe some competition.

Ingredients Needed

There are several key ingredients for this drink. Some of the flavors may change depending on which recipe for the spiced butter batter you try, but here are the basics:

• Stick (8 tbsp) Butter (unsalted butter works well)
• Bourbon (there are many great choices; I like Four Roses Bourbon)
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• Hot water
• Cinnamon stick

You can also add some additional spices such as Star Anise or a dash of Angostura bitters, but I prefer to keep it simple. Some people add a dash of maple syrup, but I think that tends to overpower the other spices.

Tools Needed for a Buttered Bourbon

You don't need any fancy bar tools to make this cocktail, but you will need to borrow some kitchen basics along with your favorite mug:

• Small quart saucepan, pot, or electric kettle for heating the water
• Wooden spoon
• Mixing bowl
• Bar spoon
• Jigger

How to make a Hot Buttered Bourbon Cocktail

There are a couple of steps to making any hot buttered whiskey recipe. First, you will need to make the butter mixture. After that, it is merely a matter of scooping it out and mixing with the spirit and hot water.

Step 1: Making the Hot Buttered Whiskey Recipe Batter

Making this drink requires a little advanced planning as well as some cooking:

1. Place a softened stick of butter in a mixing bowl.
2. Add the brown sugar and spices, and mix together until it becomes a batter. You can use a hand mixer or just a wooden spoon.
3. Pour the batter into small covered dish and let it chill in the refrigerator for an hour or so. Each serving of batter is 1 tablespoon, so this recipe will yield 8 servings (or 8 drinks). It can be kept covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Step 2: Making the Drink

Now for the simple part. Making the drink is one of the easy recipes:

1. Scoop 1 tablespoon of the batter mixture into a mug.
2. Pour in some hot water and stir with a bar spoon to dissolve the batter.
3. Add your Bourbon of choice.
4. Stir with a cinnamon stick to mix everything up.

Some folks like to add a dollop of whipped cream, lemon juice or an extra pat of butter, but I stick to the basics on this one. No need to mess with perfection!

Tips for Success

This recipe requires a bit more time and cooking than most cocktails need, but it's well worth the bit of extra effort.

• Soften the butter to room temperature by letting it sit out on the counter for an hour. You can warm it slightly in the microwave or over a low heat (if necessary) if you're in a hurry. Do not use a medium heat as you risk melting or scorching the butter. No slow cooker required.
• Use your favorite Bourbon such as Maker's Mark or Old Forester for a good spicy balance to the sugar.
• Use a mixing glass to combine all of the ingredients together before pouring into sipping cups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Similar Cocktails

If you're looking for other drinks to warm up with, try our Authentic Irish Coffee Recipe. And you can't go wrong with a Bourbon and Honey Hot Toddy -- the perfect classic hot toddy recipe.

The Hot Buttered Bourbon Cocktail is a true classic among hot drinks, perfect for cozying up by the fire, singing a Christmas carol, or just enjoying a little warmth during the winter season. It's my personal favorite, and I hope it becomes yours, too. Here's to a season filled with good Bourbon, warm spices, and the comfort of a roaring fireplace!

Which spirit do you like to use? Dark rum, Rye or one of the Irish Whiskeys?

Before you go, did you try this cocktail? Why not leave a comment in the comments section along with a rating? I always appreciate hearing from you and getting your feedback.

How to Make The Best Hot Buttered Bourbon Cocktail

Kevin Mayfield

Warm, smooth, Hot Buttered Bourbon is the perfect cocktail to sip on cold winter nights.

5 from 1 vote

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Prep Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes mins

Course Classic Cocktails

Cuisine American

Servings 1 Mug

Calories 327 kcal

Ingredients

 

US CustomaryMetric

 

1x2x3x

The Batter:

• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ cup brown sugar it doesn't have to be exact
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

The Drink:

• 1 tablespoon pre-made batter
• 1-½ ounces Bourbon
• 6-8 ounces hot water
• 1 cinnamon stick

Instructions

 

To make the batter:

• Place a stick of softened (room temperature) butter in a mixing bowl
• Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, ground cloves and nutmeg 
• Use a wooden spoon to mix until it forms a smooth batter
• Once the batter is thoroughly mixed, spoon into a covered container and chill

To make the drink:

• Scoop out the batter and place into a mug
• Add the hot water and stir
• Add the Bourbon and stir with a cinnamon stick

Notes

Feel free to use other spirits such as Rye or Rum

Remember to bring the butter to room temperature first

The batter will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 2 weeks--if it lasts that long!

Nutrition

Serving: 8ozCalories: 327kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 1gSodium: 8mgPotassium: 1mgCalcium: 3mgIron: 1mg

Keyword Fall Drinks, Hot Bourbon, Hot Butter, hot cocktails, hot toddy, madmen cocktails, mid century cocktails, Winter Cocktails, winter drinks

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Smooth and creamy with a slightly spicy finish, Bourbon Eggnog is the perfect drink as the weather turns chilly and holiday traditions begin.

What on Earth is Nog?

Eggnog, like many drinks, has a very cloudy origin story. It is said that eggnog may have been created in the mid to late 1700's. It was a favorite in taverns back in that era, and was a staple in colonial America. The word nog probably comes from the word "noggin," which referred to a small cup. Those small cups were used to serve rum, so it probably evolved from there. Eggnog was such a part of early American life that there's even a recipe from our first President, George Washington -- it's not very different from the one below, except the quantities are much larger. He wasn't a great leader for nothing!

Ingredients for Eggnog

Many recipes for eggnog are sized for a party or large gathering. In my family, we always made 'small batch' eggnog. After all, sometimes you just want to enjoy a seasonal drink or two while watching Christmas Vacation for the zillionth time, and you don't have a crowd to serve.

When selecting a spirit, some prefer a more spicy choice such as rye or rum. I go for the best of both worlds with a quality bourbon such as Basel Hayden's or Maker's Mark. A barrel strength bourbon will also give you a bit more spice. Experiment with your favorites to find a taste you like.

I see folks add whipped cream to their drink and insert cinnamon sticks, but I prefer the egg white version my dad made in the 1960's. Using egg whites adds a smoothness and silkiness similar to whipped cream. Egg whites also give a drink a bit more texture and thickness, and are commonly used in drinks such as the Whiskey Sour.

A Word About Egg Whites

Some people are nervous about using raw egg whites. Nowadays most chickens are vaccinated for salmonella to prevent transmission to humans. Be sure to buy fresh, cold pasteurized eggs that are Grade AA USDA certified and have no cracked shells. Thoroughly wash the eggs before cracking them to prevent any bacteria that might be on the outer shell from getting into the drink. This should ensure the safety of your drink, but if you have any concerns, check with your doctor.

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need to get into the holiday spirit:

• Eggs
• Sugar
• Bourbon
• Milk
• Whipping cream
• Nutmeg
• Cinnamon (optional)

These are basic ingredients usually kept on hand during the holidays. So that makes it easy to whip up this drink when you're in the mood!

Tips for Successful Bourbon Eggnog

This is not a difficult drink to make, but it does require a bit more 'cooking' technique than home mixologists are used to.

• Go easy on the bourbon until you taste it -- you can always add more
• Use an electric mixer to whip the egg whites to the proper doneness
• Allow about an hour for chilling if you like it cold

Which spirit do you make your Eggnog with? Rum? Rye? Or all the above like our first president used to do?!

Bourbon Eggnog Is a Holiday Tradition

Kevin Mayfield

Smooth, rich, spicy eggnog is an American holiday tradition.

5 from 1 vote

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Classic Cocktails

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 292 kcal

Ingredients

 

US CustomaryMetric

 

1x2x3x

• 2 large eggs
• 4 tablespoons sugar
• 4-6 ounces bourbon
• 10-12 ounces milk
• 4 ounces heavy whipping cream
• ¼ tablespoon nutmeg
• ¼ tablespoon cinnamon optional

Instructions

 

• Separate the eggs and place the yolks in a mixing bowl. Set the egg whites aside for later.
• Add the sugar to the egg yolks and whisk until the mixture is thick and full.
• Add the bourbon, milk and cream; whisking lightly as you go. Set aside.
• Using a hand mixer at medium-high speed, whip the egg whites until they thicken in volume and form soft peaks. (When you turn your whisk or beater upside down, peaks form but soon melt back into themselves. The peaks do not hold for long.)
• Fold the egg whites into the bourbon mixture, then gently whisk together to mix well.
• Chill for at least an hour before serving. Serve in a roly poly or punch glass.
• Garnish with a dusting of nutmeg.

Notes

Experiment with the spirit. I prefer bourbon, but feel free to use a rye or rum.

I gave a range for how much bourbon to use because I prefer a bit more, but others may not. So start off small and add more if desired. If you add more bourbon, you may also want to add a little more milk for the right consistency.

Mixed eggnog will keep in the refrigerator for 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 4ozCalories: 292kcalCarbohydrates: 17gProtein: 6gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 139mgSodium: 77mgPotassium: 154mgFiber: 1gSugar: 16gVitamin A: 668IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 118mgIron: 1mg

Keyword 1950's cocktails, 1960's cocktails, 1970's cocktails, Christmas Cocktails, Eggnog, Fall Drinks, Holiday Cocktails, Holiday Drinks, Mad Men Cocktails, mid century cocktails, Thanksgiving Cocktails

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