Silky Smooth Manhattan Cocktail

Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 0 minutes | Cost estimate: $8–12 | Serves: 1

Okay, mamas, let’s talk about grown-up juice! Sometimes, after a long day of refereeing sibling squabbles, wiping up mystery goo, and pretending I understand the rules of Minecraft, I need something a little… sophisticated. Enter the Manhattan cocktail. It’s my secret weapon for feeling like a classy broad, even when I’m wearing yoga pants and sporting a messy bun. This isn’t your sugary-sweet umbrella drink; this is a bold, smooth, and utterly satisfying cocktail that will make you feel like you’re in a dimly lit jazz bar, even if you’re just hiding in the pantry. Trust me, you deserve this. And the best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make. No fancy bartending skills required!

Why You’ll Love These

Why should you ditch the juice box tonight and embrace a Manhattan? Let me tell you:

• Effortlessly Elegant: Impress your friends (or yourself!) with a cocktail that tastes like it took hours to make, but really only takes minutes.
• Bold and Balanced Flavor: The perfect harmony of whiskey, vermouth, and bitters creates a drink that’s complex and satisfying.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to your taste by using different types of whiskey or garnishes.
• Stress Reliever: One sip of this silky cocktail is like a mini-vacation for your taste buds… and your sanity!
• Date Night Winner: Skip the crowded restaurants and create a romantic atmosphere at home with this classic cocktail.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces rye whiskey (Bulleit or Koval recommended, or bourbon for a sweeter taste)
• 1 ounce sweet vermouth (Vya, Dolin vermouth, or Carpano Antica Formula vermouth)
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Ice cubes
• Brandied cherry or lemon twist, for garnish (optional but highly recommended)

How to Make

Ready to become a cocktail connoisseur? Here’s how to whip up a perfect Manhattan, step-by-step:

1. 
   

   Grab your mixing glass or cocktail shaker. If you don’t have one, a sturdy glass will do in a pinch. Add the rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters.

   
   
2. 
   

   Toss in a few ice cubes. You want enough ice to chill the drink without diluting it too much.

   
   

   Tip: Use good quality ice! The clearer the ice, the slower it melts and the better your cocktail will taste.

   
   
3. 
   

   Now, stir. Don’t shake! Stirring gently chills the drink without clouding it. Stir for about 20-30 seconds, or until the mixing glass feels nice and cold.

   
   
4. 
   

   Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass or a rocks glass filled with ice. I prefer a coupe glass because it looks extra fancy. #momlife #treatyourself

   
   
5. 
   

   Garnish with a brandied cherry or a lemon twist. A cherry adds a touch of sweetness, while a lemon twist provides a bright, citrusy aroma. Or, go wild and try both!

   
   
6. 
   

   Sip and savor. You did it! You’re officially a cocktail-making superstar. Now, go hide from the kids and enjoy your well-deserved moment of peace.

   
   

Tips & Tricks

Want to take your Manhattan game to the next level? Here are a few tricks up my sleeve:

• Chill Your Glass: Pop your coupe glass in the freezer for a few minutes before making your drink. A chilled glass keeps your cocktail colder for longer.
• Experiment with Whiskey: Don’t be afraid to try different types of whiskey to find your favorite flavor profile. Bourbon will give you a sweeter, oakier drink, while rye provides a drier, spicier taste.
• High-Quality Vermouth Matters: Splurge on a good bottle of sweet vermouth. It makes a world of difference in the overall flavor of the cocktail.
• DIY Garnishes: Make your own brandied cherries! They’re surprisingly easy to make and taste amazing.
• Infuse Your Whiskey: For a unique twist, infuse your whiskey with spices like cinnamon or cloves. This will add depth and complexity to your Manhattan.

Dietary Variations

Good news! A classic Manhattan is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. Hooray!