Jalapeño Amaro Old Fashioned
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Jalapeño Amaro Old Fashioned
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.3 / 5
The Jalapeño Amaro Old Fashioned adds a rich, bittersweet layer to the spicy kick of fresh jalapeños. The herbal complexity of Amaro balances the heat, while bourbon provides warmth and depth. It’s a unique twist that merges spice, sweetness, and bitterness in a bold yet smooth drink. Ideal for those who love exploring adventurous flavor combinations.
Check out all our FAQ's on this cocktail
Base ingredient
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Bourbon
Calories
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155 calories
Garnish
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Jalapeño slice and orange peel
Alcohol content
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30.5% | 2.04 units *

Lowball glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Serves:
-
+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

4/5

This Jalapeño Amaro Old Fashioned daringly intertwines the fiery zing of jalapeños with the smooth, caramel warmth of bourbon, creating a tantalizing heat that’s soothed by the bittersweet depth of Amaro. The hint of sugar and bitters rounds out the flavor, yet it’s the contrast between the herbal intensity and the bourbon’s mellow undertones that makes this drink a spicy, adventurous delight.

Method
How to make a Jalapeño Amaro Old Fashioned

Serves 4 · Takes 5 minutes
Muddle fresh jalapeño slices with sugar and bitters in a glass, releasing the heat and flavors of the pepper
Add ice cubes and pour in the bourbon and Amaro
Stir until well chilled
Strain into a glass with fresh ice, ensuring no jalapeño bits remain
Garnish with a jalapeño slice and an orange peel for an aromatic finish

Power tips
Elevate the Jalapeño Amaro Old Fashioned with these master mixologist tips

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Opt for a milder jalapeño to ensure the spice does not overpower the cocktail. Alternatively, deseed the slices before muddling to moderate the heat while preserving the pepper’s flavor profile.
Experiment with different types of Amaro to play with the bitterness and sweetness levels. A lighter Amaro will add a floral touch, while a heavier one will bring a bolder, more robust bitterness.
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Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Muddle  ·  Bitters  ·  Stir  ·  Strain  ·  Garnish  · 

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Comments

Miachael Kivkuana avatar

i adjusted the recipe slightly by using 50ml of bourbon and just a teaspoon of amaro. The result was fantastic! The extra bourbon really enhanced the warmth, and the toned down amaro still complemented the jalapeño's spice perfectly. Definitely recommend trying it this way!

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FAQ's

Ingredient substitutions icon

Can I use a different type of alcohol instead of bourbon in a Jalapeño Amaro Old Fashioned?

Yes, you can substitute bourbon with another type of whiskey, like rye or a smoother Canadian whiskey, although it will slightly change the flavor profile of the cocktail. Rye whiskey, for instance, tends to be spicier and may complement the jalapeño's heat. A smoother whiskey might mellow the drink slightly. It's important to remember that bourbon plays a significant role in the depth and warmth of this cocktail, so while substitutions are possible, they will create a different balance of flavors.

Garnishing tips icon

What are some good garnishing ideas for a Jalapeño Amaro Old Fashioned?

A great garnish for a Jalapeño Amaro Old Fashioned is a slice of fresh jalapeño or a twist of orange peel. The jalapeño slice enhances the spicy notes and provides a visual cue of the cocktail's key ingredient. An orange peel twist can add a touch of citrus aroma, which complements the cocktail's bittersweet profile. You might also consider a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color and a refreshing aromatic element. These garnishes not only enhance the presentation of the cocktail but also subtly influence the overall taste.

Occasion suitability icon

For what occasions is a Jalapeño Amaro Old Fashioned best suited?

The Jalapeño Amaro Old Fashioned is ideally suited for occasions where adventurous flavor exploration is appreciated. Think of gatherings with friends who enjoy unique and bold cocktails, perhaps at a cocktail party or a weekend get-together. It's also perfect for evenings when you want to unwind and savor a drink with complex flavors. Given its distinctive taste, it can serve as a conversation starter and is a great choice for showcasing mixology skills during any festive occasion. This cocktail's blend of spice, sweetness, and bitterness makes it a standout choice for those seeking excitement in their drink selection.

Ingredient specifics icon

How does the use of jalapeño affect the flavor profile of a Jalapeño Amaro Old Fashioned?

The inclusion of jalapeño in the Jalapeño Amaro Old Fashioned infuses the cocktail with a spicy kick that sets it apart from traditional Old Fashioned recipes. The heat from the jalapeño slices creates a lively and invigorating sensation on the palate, which is then balanced by the bittersweet and herbal notes of the Amaro. This combination offers a dynamic contrast to the rich and smooth body of the bourbon. Jalapeños are also known for their fresh, vegetal quality, which further enriches the overall taste profile, making it a unique and bold choice for cocktail enthusiasts who enjoy spicy undertones.

Food pairings icon

What foods pair well with a Jalapeño Amaro Old Fashioned?

A Jalapeño Amaro Old Fashioned pairs particularly well with foods that complement and balance its spicy and bittersweet notes. Consider serving it alongside dishes like grilled meats, charcuterie boards, or spicy barbecue ribs. The cocktail's complexity can stand up to richer flavors, making it a suitable match for hearty dishes. For lighter options, think of pairing it with deviled eggs or spicy roasted nuts, which can echo the jalapeño's heat. Cheese platters featuring sharp, aged cheeses or creamy blue cheese also make excellent partners, offering a counterbalance to the cocktail's bold flavors, enhancing the overall tasting experience.

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