Cinnamon Manhattan Recipe

A Brief History of the Manhattan

The Manhattan cocktail has a storied history dating back to the late 19th century, with its origins often attributed to the Manhattan Club in New York City. Traditionally made with rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, the Manhattan has long been a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts. The addition of cinnamon bitters in this recipe adds a unique twist that enhances the drink's complexity and makes it perfect for fall and winter celebrations.

What You'll Need

To create the perfect Cinnamon Manhattan, gather the following ingredients:

• Rye Whiskey: The backbone of the cocktail, rye whiskey provides a spicy and robust flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the vermouth.

• Sweet Vermouth (Red): This fortified wine adds a rich, sweet, and herbal note to the cocktail, balancing the spiciness of the rye.

• Angostura Bitters: A classic cocktail ingredient, Angostura bitters contribute depth and complexity with their aromatic blend of herbs and spices.

• Cinnamon Bitters: These bitters introduce a warm, spicy flavor that elevates the cocktail and makes it perfect for the colder months.

• Cinnamon Stick (optional): A lovely garnish that not only enhances the drink's presentation but also adds an extra hint of cinnamon aroma as you sip.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

A Cozy Seasonal Delight

The Cinnamon Manhattan is more than just a cocktail; it's an experience. The warm spices evoke feelings of comfort and nostalgia, making it an ideal drink for cozy nights by the fire or festive gatherings with friends and family.

Easy to Make

With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up this cocktail in no time. It's perfect for both novice mixologists and seasoned cocktail enthusiasts alike.

Versatile and Customizable

This recipe is incredibly flexible! You can easily adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of sweet vermouth or experimenting with different types of bitters. Plus, if you prefer a lighter drink, you can substitute the rye whiskey with bourbon for a smoother flavor profile.

Tips for Substitutions and Variations

• Whiskey Alternatives: If rye whiskey isn't your favorite, feel free to use bourbon or even a blended whiskey for a different flavor experience.

• Vermouth Variations: Try using dry vermouth for a less sweet version or even a flavored vermouth, such as orange, for a unique twist.

• Bitters Exploration: Experiment with other bitters like orange or chocolate to create your own signature version of the Cinnamon Manhattan.

How to Serve and Present

To serve your Cinnamon Manhattan, follow these simple steps:

1. Chill Your Glass: Before you start mixing, chill your coupe glass by filling it with ice water. This ensures your cocktail stays cold longer.

2. Mix with Care: In a mixing glass, combine the rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, Angostura bitters, and cinnamon bitters with ice. Stir gently until well chilled—this is key to achieving the perfect dilution and temperature.

3. Strain and Serve: Empty the ice water from your coupe glass and strain the cocktail mixture into the glass.

4. Garnish: For an elegant touch, garnish with a cinnamon stick. Not only does it look beautiful, but it also adds an aromatic experience as you sip.

Pairing Suggestions

The Cinnamon Manhattan pairs beautifully with a variety of foods. Consider serving it alongside:

• Charcuterie Board: The rich flavors of cured meats and cheeses complement the cocktail's complexity.

• Spiced Nuts: A bowl of spiced nuts makes for a perfect snack that echoes the cocktail's warm spices.

• Chocolate Desserts: Indulge your sweet tooth with dark chocolate truffles or a rich chocolate cake for a decadent pairing.