6 Irresistible Orgeat Cocktail Recipes for a Nutty Twist

When it comes to crafting cocktails, there are a myriad of ingredients that can be employed to create unique and complex flavor profiles. One such ingredient is orgeat syrup, a sweet almond-based syrup that adds depth and dimension to classic cocktail recipes.

In this article, we will explore the versatility of orgeat syrup and provide 6 irresistible orgeat cocktail recipes for you to try at home. Orgeat syrup has an interesting history dating back to the Middle East where it was originally made from barley.

The word “orgeat” in French means “barley water,” but over time almonds became the primary ingredient. Today, orgeat syrup is commonly used in Tiki cocktails which were popularized during the 1950s and 60s.

These exotic drinks often featured rum and fruit juices along with orgeat syrup, creating tropical flavors that transported drinkers to far-flung destinations. One of the key benefits of using orgeat syrup in cocktails is its versatility in terms of flavor profile and texture.

Homemade or store-bought versions can add nutty sweetness with hints of orange blossom water, rose water, vanilla extract, cinnamon or other spices depending on personal preference. Orgeat can also make drinks creamier without adding dairy, which makes it a great alternative for those who are lactose intolerant.

There are countless ways to incorporate orgeat into your favorite drinks; all you need is a bit of creativity and willingness to experiment! In the following sections we will share some delicious recipes utilizing homemade or store-bought orgeat that will take your cocktail game up a notch – get ready for some fun mixing!

The History of Orgeat Syrup

Orgeat syrup, also known as almond syrup, has a rich history dating back to the Middle East. It is believed that the original recipe for orgeat syrup was created by Persian alchemists during the 10th century. It was made by mixing almonds with water and sugar, and then straining the mixture to create a sweet, nutty syrup.

The name “orgeat” comes from the French word “orge,” which means barley, as barley was often used in early versions of the recipe. Over time, orgeat syrup became popular throughout Europe and was used in a variety of culinary creations including cakes, pastries, and shaved ice drinks.

In France during the 18th century, orgeat syrup was often made with apricot kernels rather than almonds due to their abundance in the region. However, it wasn’t until the Tiki craze of the 1950s and 60s that orgeat syrup became a popular ingredient in cocktails.

Tiki culture originated in California but quickly spread throughout America and other parts of the world. This genre of exotic cocktails featured tropical flavors and Polynesian-inspired decor which attracted people looking for an escape from their mundane lives.

One famous Tiki cocktail that prominently features orgeat syrup is Trader Vic’s Mai Tai. Created by Victor Jules Bergeron Jr., owner of Trader Vic’s restaurant chain, this cocktail combines rum, lime juice, orange curaçao, orgeat syrup and rock candy syrup for sweetness.

The Mai Tai quickly gained popularity across America and was even named after Tahiti’s greeting phrase meaning “the best”. In modern times Orgeat Syrup has found its way into many classic cocktails such as Amaretto Sour which brings out an all-new taste profile when compared to its original recipe without Orgeat Syrup.

How to Make Orgeat Syrup

Storing Homemade Orgeat Syrup

Once you’ve made your homemade orgeat syrup, you’ll want to store it properly so that it lasts as long as possible. The good news is that orgeat syrup can last up to a month in the fridge if stored correctly. Here are a few tips on storing your homemade orgeat syrup:

1. Transfer the cooled syrup to an air-tight container like a Mason jar or glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid.

2. Label the container with the date that you made the syrup.

3. Store the syrup in the refrigerator and use it within a month.

4. If you notice any discoloration, cloudiness, or mold growing on your orgeat syrup, discard it immediately.

Using Leftover Orgeat Syrup

If you’ve made too much homemade orgeat syrup and don’t want to waste any of it, there are plenty of ways to use leftover syrup beyond just making cocktails. Here are some ideas for using leftover orgeat syrup:

1. Use it in coffee instead of regular sweeteners like sugar or creamer.

2. Drizzle over pancakes, waffles, or French toast for a sweet nutty flavor profile

3. Add into oatmeal bowls & cereal bowls for an added nutty sweetness

4.Use in desserts such as cakes instead of regular sugar

6 Irresistible Orgeat Cocktail Recipes

1. Mai Tai – A Classic Tiki Cocktail

Ingredients:

• 2 oz rum
• 1 oz lime juice
• 1 oz orange curaçao
• ½ oz homemade orgeat syrup
• Crushed ice
• Mint leaves, for garnish
• Orange slice, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add 2 oz of rum, 1 oz of lime juice, 1 oz of orange curaçao, and ½ oz of homemade orgeat syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to thoroughly mix the ingredients and chill the cocktail.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with crushed ice.
5. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint leaves and an orange slice.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Note: To make homemade orgeat syrup, you will need almond syrup, which can be found in specialty stores or made at home by mixing equal parts almond milk and sugar until fully dissolved. Optionally, you can add a few drops of orange blossom water for additional flavor. Store the homemade orgeat syrup in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

2. Almond Joy Martini – A Dessert-Inspired Cocktail

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz chocolate liqueur
• 1 oz coconut cream
• ½ oz homemade orgeat syrup
• Ice
• Toasted coconut flakes, for rimming the glass

Instructions:

1. Begin by rimming a chilled martini glass with toasted coconut flakes. To do this, lightly moisten the rim of the glass with water or simple syrup, and then dip it into a plate filled with toasted coconut flakes. Gently rotate the glass to ensure an even coating of coconut flakes.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add 2 oz of vodka, 1 oz of chocolate liqueur, 1 oz of coconut cream, and ½ oz of homemade orgeat syrup to the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to mix the ingredients and chill the cocktail.
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass.
6. Optionally, you can garnish with a sprinkle of additional toasted coconut flakes on top.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy the indulgent Almond Joy Martini!

Note: To make homemade orgeat syrup, you can follow the instructions mentioned in the previous recipe for the Mai Tai cocktail.

The Almond Joy Martini is a delightful treat that combines the flavors of almonds, chocolate, and coconut, reminiscent of the popular candy bar. Sip and savor this dessert-inspired cocktail on special occasions or whenever you’re in the mood for a little indulgence. Cheers!

3. Amaretto Sour – A Simple Yet Delicious Cocktail

Ingredients:

• 2 oz amaretto liqueur
• ¾ oz lemon juice
• ½ oz homemade orgeat syrup
• Egg white (optional)
• Ice

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 oz of amaretto liqueur, ¾ oz of lemon juice, and ½ oz of homemade orgeat syrup.
2. Optionally, if you prefer a frothy texture, add an egg white to the shaker as well.
3. Shake the mixture vigorously without ice. This step, known as a dry shake, helps to blend the ingredients and create a foamy texture.
4. After dry shaking, add ice to the shaker and continue shaking vigorously to chill the cocktail and create additional frothiness.
5. Strain the mixture into an ice-filled rocks glass.
6. Optionally, you can garnish with a lemon twist or a maraschino cherry.
7. Serve and enjoy the delightful flavors of the Amaretto Sour!

Note: To make homemade orgeat syrup, you can refer to the instructions mentioned in the previous recipes.

The Amaretto Sour is a classic cocktail that balances the sweetness of amaretto liqueur with the tartness of lemon juice, resulting in a refreshing and flavorful drink. The addition of the frothy egg white adds a creamy texture to the cocktail. Sip and savor this simple yet delicious cocktail on any occasion. Cheers!

4. Almond Milk Punch – A Creamy Punch

Ingredients:

• 2 oz bourbon whiskey
• 2 oz homemade almond milk
• ½ oz homemade orgeat syrup
• ¼ tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of nutmeg powder
• Ice

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 oz of bourbon whiskey, 2 oz of homemade almond milk, ½ oz of homemade orgeat syrup, ¼ tsp of vanilla extract, and a pinch of nutmeg powder.
2. Shake the mixture gently without ice. This step helps to blend the ingredients together.
3. Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously to chill the cocktail.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice.
5. Optionally, you can garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg powder or a cinnamon stick.
6. Serve and enjoy the creamy and indulgent flavors of the Almond Milk Punch!

Note: To make homemade almond milk, soak 1 cup of almonds in water overnight. Drain and rinse the almonds, then blend them with 3 cups of fresh water until smooth. Strain the mixture through a nut milk bag or fine cheesecloth to separate the almond pulp from the milk. The resulting liquid is homemade almond milk.

To make homemade orgeat syrup, you can refer to the instructions mentioned in the previous recipes.

The Almond Milk Punch is a delicious and creamy cocktail that combines the nutty flavors of homemade almond milk with the warmth of bourbon whiskey and spices. It’s a perfect drink for cozy evenings or special gatherings. Enjoy!

5. Pistachio Margarita – A Unique Twist on the Classic Margarita

Ingredients:

• 2 oz infused pistachio tequila blanco or reposado tequila
• 1 oz lime juice
• ½ oz homemade orgeat syrup
• Ice
• Salt, for rimming the glass
• Lime wedge, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Begin by infusing the tequila with pistachios. To do this, add shelled pistachios (about ½ cup) to a bottle of tequila blanco or reposado. Seal the bottle and let it sit in a cool, dark place for 24 to 48 hours to allow the flavors to meld. Strain the tequila to remove the pistachio solids before using it in the cocktail.
2. Rim a glass with salt by rubbing a lime wedge around the rim and then dipping it into a plate of salt to coat the rim.
3. In a shaker, combine 2 oz of infused pistachio tequila, 1 oz of lime juice, and ½ oz of homemade orgeat syrup.
4. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well to thoroughly mix and chill the cocktail.
5. Strain the mixture into the salt-rimmed glass filled with fresh ice.
6. Garnish with a lime wedge.
7. Serve and enjoy the unique flavors of the Pistachio Margarita!

Note: To make homemade orgeat syrup, you can refer to the instructions mentioned in the previous recipes.

The Pistachio Margarita offers a delightful twist on the classic margarita by incorporating the nutty flavors of pistachios. It’s a unique and refreshing cocktail that is sure to impress your guests. Sip and savor this innovative creation! Cheers!

6. Nutty Irish

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ oz Irish whiskey (e.g., Jameson)
• ½ oz hazelnut liqueur (e.g., Frangelico)
• ½ oz homemade orgeat syrup
• Ice

Instructions:

1. Fill a shaker with ice.
2. Add 1 ½ oz of Irish whiskey, ½ oz of hazelnut liqueur, and ½ oz of homemade orgeat syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15 seconds to combine the ingredients and chill the cocktail.
4. Strain the mixture into an ice-filled rocks glass.
5. Optionally, you can garnish with a twist of lemon or an orange peel.
6. Serve and enjoy the delightful flavors of the Nutty Irish cocktail!

Note: To make homemade orgeat syrup, you can refer to the instructions mentioned in the previous recipes.

The Nutty Irish is a delicious and smooth Irish whiskey cocktail with a touch of hazelnut sweetness from the liqueur and the homemade orgeat syrup. It’s a delightful drink to enjoy on its own or as a special treat during festive occasions. Cheers!

Conclusion

Using orgeat syrup in different cocktails can add enjoyable flavors to your drinks. The versatility offered by this unique ingredient allows you to experiment with various flavors to create new twists on classic cocktails like Mai Tai, Amaretto Sour, Almond Joy Martini while elevating their taste. With these nine recipes, you can tap into your creative side to craft irresistible orgeat cocktails that your guests will love to savor.