If you want a cozy holiday drink that features a classic whiskey base with a festive twist, this spiced Manhattan cocktail recipe is a must-try. It combines the smooth taste of whiskey, sweetness from vermouth, and a warming hint of spice that feels just right for chilly nights. Whether you are preparing for a Christmas party or simply craving a festive sipper, a spiced Manhattan brings a comforting balance of timeless flavor and holiday cheer.
In the traditional Manhattan, you would use whiskey, sweet vermouth, and a couple of dashes of bitters. When you add subtle layers of cinnamon, maple, or other warm spices, you get an even more inviting treat. This elevated take caters to both Manhattan enthusiasts and those who want a comforting cocktail wrapped in the flavors of the season.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces of rye whiskey (or bourbon)
- 1 ounce of sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes of aromatic bitters
- ½ ounce of spiced syrup (such as maple or cinnamon-infused)
- Optional garnish: cinnamon stick, orange peel, or cherry
Feel free to adjust the spiced syrup to suit your preferred level of sweetness and spiciness. Rye whiskey tends to give a sharper, bolder taste than bourbon, while bourbon brings smoother caramel notes. Choose whichever you enjoy most.
Directions
- Chill your serving glass. Place a coupe or martini glass in the freezer for a few minutes, or fill it with ice and water to cool it down.
- Prepare your mixing glass. Fill a separate mixing glass with ice.
- Combine the liquids. Pour in the whiskey, sweet vermouth, aromatic bitters, and spiced syrup.
- Stir until well mixed. Gently stir for about 30 seconds to ensure the flavors meld together, while also chilling and diluting the cocktail to the right balance.
- Strain and serve. Discard the ice from your chilled glass, then strain the liquid into the glass.
- Garnish. Top it off with a cinnamon stick, a twist of orange peel, or a classic cocktail cherry.
Tips & variations
- Try cinnamon-infused syrup. One popular approach is to create a Cinnamon Spiced Manhattan, as featured in an October 2020 post by Tasting With Tina. Simply add a cinnamon stick or two to your syrup and let it steep for an extra spicy kick.
- Explore maple flavors. Another variation, the Spiced Maple Manhattan, replaces simple syrup with spiced maple syrup for a well-rounded sweetness, as described in a May 2015 recipe review on Crumb: A Food Blog. This option offers a touch of vanilla, cinnamon, and star anise for extra depth.
- Garnish with flair. For a fancy finish, sprinkle an orange peel with brown sugar and lightly torch it for a caramelized topping. You can also smoke the cocktail by torching wood chips and covering the drink with a glass dome to capture the fragrant smoke.
Nutrition facts
Keep in mind that exact numbers will vary based on your ingredients. On average, one serving of a spiced Manhattan (about 3 to 4 ounces total) can range between 150 to 200 calories. Sweet vermouth, whiskey, and spiced syrup all contain sugars or carbs, so adjust portions if you are watching your calorie or sugar intake.
Final thoughts
A spiced Manhattan cocktail is an effortless way to impress friends and family. Its warm, aromatic twists make it especially inviting during the holiday season, yet it remains true to the classic Manhattan’s balanced profile. Whether you choose to infuse maple, cinnamon, or other cozy flavors, you can customize the recipe to fit your tastes and keep the celebration going all season long.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Is a Manhattan sweeter than an Old Fashioned?
A Manhattan uses sweet vermouth, while an Old Fashioned typically uses sugar or simple syrup. Both tend to be slightly sweet, but the flavors differ because vermouth brings herbal notes.
Can I use different whiskeys?
Absolutely. Rye whiskey gives a spicier edge, while bourbon delivers a softer sweetness. Feel free to experiment with various whiskeys to see which suits your palate best.
What spices go well in a spiced Manhattan?
Cinnamon, clove, and star anise are all excellent holiday options. You can also explore hot sauce or chili-infused garnishes if you want a bolder kick.
How do I make a spiced syrup at home?
Combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan, add your choice of spices (cinnamon sticks, star anise), and simmer until the sugar fully dissolves. Let it sit for a few minutes off the heat to extract more flavor before straining.
Enjoy exploring your own spiced Manhattan cocktail recipe, and cheers to a festive and flavorful holiday season!
