Alicia from Boozed + Infused inspired me to try infusing some coffee bourbon a while back. Following her instructions, I crushed up some coffee beans, split a vanilla bean, added a little brown sugar, and let it all stew with some bourbon in a mason jar for 3 weeks.
Waiting patiently…
Finally, after all that waiting, it was time to sample the goods.
Bottoms up!
The product was delicious all by itself. The flavor of bourbon, coffee, and vanilla, with just the tiniest hint of sweetness, blended perfectly. Other then infusing some pineapple vodka way back in the day, this is my first infusion, and I’m so glad I tried it. I think it might make me infusion-happy… so look for more creative cocktails to come!
The hubby and I couldn’t agree on what cocktail to try first, so we decided to go head-to-head. I went super-simple with a bourbon “latte” martini — just the coffee bourbon and a splash of cream.
Want some booze with your coffee?
The hubby decided to go classic with a Black Russian (cousin of the White Russian).
Sporting some logo gear from his trip to Kentucky bourbon country…
Although I enjoyed my martini, I have to say, his Black Russian won the day. The vodka mellowed out the strong flavor of the coffee bourbon and made it more drinkable. Regardless, both were excellent drinks, so I’ll share both recipes with you today — a Cocktail Thursday two-fer!
Watch out, though, because what I really want to try is a coffee bourbon milkshake. I have a feeling that will be the hands-down winner!
Bourbon Latte Martini
1 1/2 oz coffee bourbon
1/2 oz cream
chocolate shavings for garnish
Combine the coffee bourbon and cream in shaker filled with ice and shake vigorously until cold. Strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with chocolate shavings.
Bourbon Black Russian
2 oz vodka
1 oz coffee bourbon
Combine the vodka and bourbon in a rocks glass over ice. Stir well and serve.
I have never made an infusion. You make me want to try!
It was so easy! I’m already debating what to try next. Honestly, the waiting around is the only hard part.
Sounds like it would be good in baking too.
Ooh, brilliant! Now I need to get brainstorming…
Yum! I’m so glad you like it… Although if you like bourbon and you like coffee, this is hard to dislike. Can’t wait for you to try the milkshake. Make it ahead of time so you can properly refreeze it. Thanks for the post!
Yes, this was so wonderful. So glad you turned me on to it! I got some vanilla ice cream yesterday, so I’m going to give the milkshake a go. I can’t imagine how it could be anything short of amazing!
Your idea of science experiments meshes well with mine. Looks awesome!
Science!
I love this idea! That really makes it fun as I just wouldn’t touch bourbon otherwise.
I’m going to pretend you didn’t say that last thing.
Pingback: How to make a trifle | Gourmet Veggie Mama
Pingback: Coffee bourbon milkshake | Gourmet Veggie Mama
Pingback: A Birthday Feast | Gourmet Veggie Mama
Pingback: Espresso Martini | Gourmet Veggie Mama