The Spiced Manhattan is a cozy, flavorful twist on the classic cocktail. It keeps the smooth balance of whiskey and sweet vermouth but adds a warm, spiced kick that makes it perfect for crisp evenings or festive gatherings. I’ve made this cocktail countless times, and it never fails to impress—whether I’m winding down after a long day or sharing a round with friends.
Spiced Manhattan
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) Bourbon or Rye Whiskey – Rye gives a spicier kick, while bourbon is smoother.
- 1 oz (30ml) Sweet Vermouth – Adds a hint of sweetness and depth.
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters – Essential for that signature Manhattan complexity.
- 0.5 oz (15ml) Spiced Syrup – A homemade blend of warm spices like cinnamon and cloves (recipe below).
- Ice – For chilling the drink.
- 1 Cherry – For garnish.
Glassware: Traditionally served in a Martini glass for a refined touch, but a Rocks glass works for a more relaxed feel.
How to Make a Spiced Manhattan
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Pour in the whiskey, sweet vermouth, bitters, and spiced syrup.
- Stir well for about 30 seconds—this chills the drink without watering it down too much.
- Strain into a chilled Martini glass.
- Drop in a cherry for garnish.
How to Make Spiced Syrup
Want to make your own spiced syrup? It’s easy and adds so much flavor.
- In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup (100g) sugar and 1/2 cup (120ml) water.
- Add 1 cinnamon stick, 3 cloves, and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Simmer on low heat until the sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it steep for 15 minutes.
- Strain out the spices and store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Tips for the Best Spiced Manhattan
- Chill your glass before serving to keep the drink colder longer.
- Adjust the spice level by tweaking the spiced syrup—more cinnamon for warmth, a little orange peel for brightness.
- Use high-quality whiskey—since this drink is spirit-forward, the whiskey’s flavor really shines.
Variations to Try
Feeling creative? Try these fun twists:
Spiced Rum Manhattan
- Swap whiskey for aged rum for a smoother, slightly tropical take.
Maple Spiced Manhattan
- Replace spiced syrup with maple syrup for a rich, earthy sweetness.
Apple Spiced Manhattan
- Use apple whiskey instead of regular whiskey for a fall-inspired version.
Non-Alcoholic Version
- Replace whiskey with apple juice and vermouth with grape juice. Keep the bitters and spiced syrup for depth.
What to Serve with a Spiced Manhattan
This cocktail pairs beautifully with:
- Charcuterie – Salty cured meats and cheeses balance the sweetness of the drink.
- Dark Chocolate – The bitter richness enhances the whiskey’s caramel notes.
- Roasted Nuts – Their toasty flavor complements the warm spices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a Spiced Manhattan different from a regular Manhattan?
The classic Manhattan sticks to whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. The spiced version adds a layer of warmth with spiced syrup.
Can I use a different type of alcohol?
Yes! Rum, apple whiskey, or even a smoky mezcal can create interesting variations.
How do I make a lower-calorie version?
Use less spiced syrup or swap it for a natural sweetener like stevia.
What’s the best garnish?
A cherry is classic, but an orange peel twist or a cinnamon stick adds a nice touch.
This has been my go-to cocktail for cozy nights, and I hope it becomes one of your favorites too. Cheers! 🍸
