The great thing about these 20 Drinks with Bitters is that they’re refreshing and flavorful.
From classics to tropical leaning mixed drinks, this list includes a bunch of cocktail recipes that are easy to make at home.
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Bitters help flavor cocktails
For years I knew what bitters were but had no idea how to use them. I never tried them. It seemed a little overwhelming.
But when my friend made a Moscow Mule for me for the first time, a whole new world of flavor opened up.
Traditional Bitters, indeed, have a slightly bitter flavor that is herbal with a slight note of citrus. It's a concentrated flavor that you only need a few drops of.
Much like salt and pepper, bitters help to finish a drink and add a layer of flavor. So any time I see drinks that use bitters, I feel like they are going to be balanced and delicious.
Unlike a simple syrup, bitters don't add sweetness, only concentrated flavor.
Playing around with bitters led me to drink Bitters and Soda. It's the perfect drink to sip on a warm day or when you want to feel like you're having a cocktail but don't want the alcohol.
Bitters are alcohol infusions made with botanicals and other flavor agents. Roots, dried fruits, herbs and flowers create flavorful blends to add to cocktails.
Bitters can be used in any drink you want to. Often used in classic cocktails, bitters can be added to anything. It's like a liquid spice that you would add depending on the flavors you are using.
Along with bringing their own flavor (which depends on which variety you use) they also accentuate other flavors in a cocktail. It's a great way to add depth and a perfect way to finish of a drink.
Types of bitters
I'm not sure if bitters is broken down into legit categories but from a casual user, I have noticed a few types.
Aromatic bitters are the traditional type and include herbs, barks, spices, etc. I guess I would also include lavender bitters in this category.
Angostura is the most popular brand, although Peychaud's is also classic.
There are also fruit-forward bitters like orange, and grapefruit and just about any other fruit you can think of.
There are more savory flavors, like celery, which I have but haven't used yet.
And then you can find flavor blends. I have one that tastes very tropical with the standard bitter flavors topped with nutmeg and cinnamon, etc.
Chocolate bitters exist although I haven't ever used those.
And then you'll find the weird ones. The ones like mole, or barbecue or spicy bitters. These wacky flavors seem to be a fairly new trend while traditional bitters have been around FOREVER.
Some brands also sell them in sets which is a great way to try out a bunch of flavors. Some sell smaller sized bottles, while others sell full-sized.
You can usually find the OG bitters, Angostura, at most stores including super markets and Target. Look for specialty bitters in larger wine stores or smaller cocktail shops. Or scout for them online.
Drinks with Bitters
Smooth Irish whiskey, bitters, a little sugar and a splash of soda gives you an easy classic cocktail
The spiced rum and vanilla make this drink comforting and delicious! The bitters help to give it depth of flavor.
Cherry and orange shaken with a nice bourbon create a perfectly chilled drink you'll love.
This cocktail is sweet and tart and tastes like a tropical vacation in a glass!
Floral gin and a splash of champagne create a refreshing cocktail perfect for any time of year.
Homemade pumpkin pie syrup and bourbon make a dessert-like cocktail that you will want to drink every fall.
Smashed fresh strawberries with mint and ginger mix with bourbon to create a refreshing and fruity cocktail.
With a hint of smoke, the fig syrup and Japanese whisky make a unique cocktail that you really need to try.
Smoked Maple Bourbon and sweet peaches combine to make a sweet and smoky mixed drink that everyone will go crazy for.
The bold flavors of ginger, orange, and bourbon work together to create a refreshing drink that is sure to be your new favorite.
A classic cocktail with whiskey, this drink has just 3 ingredients and comes together quickly.
Campari, Aperol and Tequila with a splash of champagne create a drink that is a touch bitter and just the right amount of fizzy.
Homemade rose simple syrup, fresh citrus, and bitters mix to create a drink that is a gorgeous pink color!
Pomegranate juice, Orange Bitters, Tequila, and Grenadine is a delicious summer cocktail to make for your next happy hour.
Fresh watermelon and ginger bitters makes this vodka cocktail super flavorful.
Dark chocolate bitters, coffee liqueur and cream makes for a rich and sweet drink that also feels festive!
The pear nectar, fresh lime juice and vodka make a simple drink idea that is quick and easy to make.
Just a few ingredients and a few minutes make a refreshing bourbon drink that gives you an excuse to drink out of a copper mug.
Bitters are a quick way to add tons of flavor to a drink.
And while they do, technically, have alcohol, they really aren't considered alcoholic. The amount you would need to consume to feel the effects would be outrageous.
Adding a few drops to a cocktail is the perfect finishing touch.
More ways to use bitters
- I add Lavender Bitters to my coffee. Yum!
- Use a few drops to flavor homemade whipped cream.
- Add a few drops to your batter before baking. I think I'm going to give that a try next time I make my Sherry Wine Cake.
- Mixed with a little olive oil could make for an interesting salad dressing.
- Adding a few drops to a glass of wine might make it taste more complex like Fortified Wine. I haven't tried that yet, so I'll report back.
Once you get familiar with mixed drinks with bitters you'll come up with even more ways you can use them.
More cocktail recipes
- A Blood Orange Spritzer with Thyme is refreshing and a great way to use wine that has been open a few days.
- Have you heard of Haus Aperitif wines? They're totally unique and delicious. Drink them alone or use them in a cocktail!
- A Hibiscus Mule is a tart and tangy drink idea that also has a floral note. It's a fun twist on the classic recipe.
Pin to save these drinks with bitters for later.
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