When it comes to crafting unique and delicious recipes, incorporating ABV into your creations can take them to a whole new level. From sweet treats to savory dishes, there are countless ways to infuse your cooking and baking with the rich flavors of alcohol. In this article, we’ll explore 18 creative ABV recipes that will give you inspiration for your next big culinary project.
Whether you’re looking to add a hint of sophistication to your cocktail game or take your baked goods to new heights, these bold mixologists have crafted some truly impressive creations. From the classic old fashioned to decadent truffles and sauces, we’ll dive into the world of ABV-infused treats that are sure to impress.
ABV-infused vanilla bean old fashioned
This recipe takes the classic Old Fashioned to new heights by infusing bourbon barrel vanilla extract (ABV) into a rich and creamy vanilla bean syrup. The result is a velvety-smooth cocktail that combines the warm spices of an Old Fashioned with the comforting sweetness of vanilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/4 oz ABV-infused vanilla extract (see note)
– 1 dash Angostura bitters
– Orange peel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the simple syrup and ABV-infused vanilla extract. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is warm and well combined.
2. In a mixing glass, combine the bourbon, simple syrup mixture, and bitters.
3. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for 30-45 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with an orange peel, expressing its oils over the drink.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes of prep work.
Spiced rum ABV caramel sauce
Spiced Rum Caramel Sauce Recipe
Warm up your fall festivities with this rich and aromatic spiced rum caramel sauce, perfect for topping ice cream, pancakes, or using as a dip. This sweet and spicy treat is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon spiced rum (optional)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar, cream, and butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until caramel turns golden brown.
4. Remove from heat and stir in spiced rum (if using), cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. Let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bourbon ABV chocolate truffles
Elevate your chocolate truffle game with the warm and sophisticated flavors of bourbon. These decadent treats are perfect for special occasions or as a luxurious gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey (ABV 40%)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. Set aside.
2. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
3. Stir the softened butter and vanilla extract into the melted chocolate until smooth.
4. Gradually add the bourbon whiskey to the chocolate mixture, stirring until well combined.
5. Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until fully incorporated.
6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
7. Roll the chilled truffle mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe does not involve cooking. Refrigeration time: at least 2 hours or overnight.
ABV lavender honey syrup
Elevate your cocktails and desserts with the subtle charm of lavender honey syrup, perfect for spring-inspired treats. This recipe combines the floral essence of lavender with the warmth of pure honey to create a delightful condiment.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) pure honey
– 2 cups (400ml) water
– 1/4 cup (15g) dried lavender buds
– ABV (40-50% v/v) spirit or vodka (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the honey and water. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the honey dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and add the dried lavender buds. Let steep for 30 minutes to allow the floral flavors to infuse.
3. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle. Discard the lavender buds or reserve them for tea or potpourri.
4. If desired, add the ABV spirit or vodka and stir well.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of lavender to your liking.
– Use this syrup as a mixer in cocktails, a topping for yogurt or oatmeal, or as a sweetener for tea or coffee.
Tequila ABV citrus marinade
Elevate your citrus game with this refreshing tequila-infused marinade, perfect for grilled meats, seafood, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup tequila (100% ABV)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together tequila, lime juice, orange juice, garlic, and ginger until well combined.
2. Add honey and whisk until dissolved.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None needed! This marinade is ready to use straight away.
Vodka ABV peppermint patties
These creamy treats combine the classic flavors of peppermint patties with the bold spirit of vodka. Perfect for adult parties or as a unique gift, these boozy bites are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 cup (60ml) vodka (ABV)
– 1 cup (250g) dark chocolate chips
– Crushed candy canes or chopped peppermint bark for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and softened butter until smooth.
2. Add peppermint extract and vodka; mix until well combined.
3. Melt dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
4. Pour melted chocolate over the peppermint mixture; stir until fully incorporated.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Roll into small balls and garnish with crushed candy canes or chopped peppermint bark, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (chill time: 30 minutes)
Whiskey ABV barbecue glaze
Elevate your barbecue game with this rich and tangy whiskey-based glaze, perfect for slathering on ribs, chicken, or pork.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whiskey (100 proof or higher)
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine whiskey, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly.
3. Reduce heat to low and let glaze cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None; this glaze is ready to use straight away!
ABV coffee liqueur tiramisu
Elevate your coffee game with this boozy twist on the classic Italian dessert.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup ABV coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa or Tia Maria)
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 8 oz heavy cream
– 2 cups strong brewed coffee
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– Cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mascarpone and heavy cream. Mix until smooth.
2. Add granulated sugar and mix until dissolved.
3. Dip each ladyfinger into the ABV coffee liqueur, about 2-3 seconds per side (don’t soak them!).
4. Create layers in a serving dish: ladyfingers, mascarpone mixture, and brewed coffee.
5. Repeat steps 3-4 two more times, finishing with a layer of mascarpone on top.
6. Dust with cocoa powder and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is best served chilled.
Gin ABV cucumber sorbet
Transform the essence of gin into a unique and revitalizing sorbet, perfect for hot summer days. This recipe combines the crisp flavor of cucumber with the subtle botanicals of gin, creating a refreshing treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup gin (ABV)
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and seeded
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Add the gin, cucumber puree, and lemon juice. Stir to combine.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, scoop the sorbet into cones or bowls and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Rum ABV banana foster flambé
Elevate your dessert game with this classic New Orleans-inspired treat, infused with the warmth of rum and the sweetness of caramelized bananas. This show-stopping flambé is perfect for special occasions or impromptu dinner parties.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe bananas, sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons dark rum (ABV)
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– Caramel sauce and whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced bananas and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until caramelized.
2. Sprinkle brown sugar over the bananas and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add dark rum to the skillet and ignite (be careful!).
4. Once the flames die down, pour in heavy cream and stir to combine.
5. Serve immediately, topped with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
ABV cherry bounce preserves
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of this homemade preserve infused with the warm spirit of ABV (alcohol by volume). Perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a glaze for meats or cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cherries, pitted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup ABV (alcohol by volume)
– 1 package powdered pectin
Instructions:
1. Combine cherries, sugar, and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Stir in lemon juice and ABV. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, mix powdered pectin with a little water to make a paste. Add the pectin mixture to the saucepan and stir until dissolved.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and let cool before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brandy ABV apple pie filling
Elevate your apple pie game with this rich and indulgent filling infused with the smooth warmth of brandy. This recipe is perfect for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a base for future desserts.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs apples (Granny Smith and Gala), peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup brandy (ABV 35-40%)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender (about 20 minutes).
3. Add brandy and heavy cream; stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until filling has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool before using.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
ABV amaretto almond biscotti
Biscotti lovers, rejoice! This recipe combines the classic Italian cookie with the richness of amaretto and the nutty flavor of almonds, resulting in a crunchy treat perfect for dipping into your favorite coffee or wine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons almond extract
– 1 teaspoon amaretto liqueur
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, almond extract, and amaretto.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
4. Stir in sliced almonds.
5. Divide dough into two portions. Shape each portion into a log about 12 inches long.
6. Place logs onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 3 inches of space between them.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mezcal ABV smoked chili chocolate
Elevate your chocolate game with a hint of smokiness and a dash of Mezcal’s bold flavor. These bite-sized truffles are perfect for a sophisticated dessert or an unexpected gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons Mezcal ABV
– 1 tablespoon smoked chili flakes
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, melt the chocolate chips.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the softened butter until combined.
3. Add Mezcal ABV, smoked chili flakes, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
5. Roll into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking involved)
ABV Irish cream cheesecake
Elevate your cheesecake game with the rich flavors of ABV Irish cream, perfect for adult gatherings or special occasions. This creamy dessert combines the smoothness of cheesecake with the velvety texture of Irish cream liqueur.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, separated
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tbsp ABV Irish cream liqueur (or more to taste)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix crust ingredients and press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, eggs, sour cream, and Irish cream liqueur. Mix until combined.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into the prepared pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set.
5. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Port wine ABV poached pears
Poach pears in a rich Port wine syrup to create a decadent dessert that’s perfect for special occasions. This simple recipe yields tender, flavorful pears with a deep red wine sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou)
– 1 cup Port wine (ABV 19%)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon orange liqueur (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine Port wine, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Peel, core, and halve the pears. Add them to the poaching liquid, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Remove the pears from the syrup with a slotted spoon and let cool slightly.
4. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, discarding solids. If using orange liqueur, stir it in before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
ABV limoncello ricotta cookies
Elevate your cookie game with these moist and flavorful treats, infused with the brightness of lemon and the subtle sweetness of limoncello.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon limoncello liqueur (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and limoncello (if using).
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Scotch ABV butterscotch sauce
This rich and velvety sauce combines the deep flavors of scotch whisky with the sweet and buttery notes of traditional butterscotch. Perfect for topping pancakes, waffles, or ice cream, this Scotch ABV butterscotch sauce is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 ounces scotch whisky (such as Glenfiddich or Macallan)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, sugar, and butter. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the scotch whisky and vanilla extract.
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. When ready to serve, give the sauce a good whisk to re-emulsify it.
Cooking Time: None (as this is a chilled sauce)
Summary
Get creative with your mixology skills and try out these 18 innovative recipes that incorporate ABV (alcohol by volume) into delicious treats! From old-fashioned cocktails to sweet treats like truffles, sauce, and cheesecake, there’s something for every taste. Discover how to make an ABV-infused vanilla bean old fashioned, a Spiced rum ABV caramel sauce, Bourbon ABV chocolate truffles, and many more unique concoctions that will impress your friends and family.