What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade Manhattan recipe brings a touch of classic elegance to your cocktail game, perfect for any occasion. It’s simple to make, yet impressively sophisticated, and lets you enjoy a bar-quality drink from the comfort of home. You’ll love how the rich, smooth flavors of whiskey blend perfectly with the sweet vermouth and bitters. Plus, it’s customizable—adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. Finally, it’s a quick mix, so you’ll be sipping in no time!
Recipe
A classic Manhattan cocktail is a timeless blend of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, delivering a smooth and sophisticated flavor. This homemade recipe is simple yet elegant, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a quiet evening.
Ingredients
- 2 oz rye whiskey (or bourbon)
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 maraschino cherry (for garnish)
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Fill a mixing glass or cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
- Add the rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters to the glass.
- Stir well for about 30 seconds until the mixture is well-chilled.
- Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
Notes
- For a drier version, use dry vermouth instead of sweet vermouth.
- Adjust the whiskey-to-vermouth ratio to suit your taste preferences.
Equipment
- Mixing glass or cocktail shaker
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Bar spoon
- Strainer
- Chilled coupe or martini glass
Time
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Cuisine
American
Serving
Serves 1
Nutrition
The Manhattan cocktail is a classic drink that balances the richness of whiskey with the sweetness of vermouth. While its nutritional content may vary slightly based on the specific ingredients used, here is a general breakdown:
Calories: 164 | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 0g | Fat: 0g | Sugar: 2g
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade Manhattan with a simple cheese plate for a classy yet easy snack. A few slices of sharp cheddar or creamy brie alongside some crackers complement the drink’s rich flavors perfectly. For something sweet, a bite of dark chocolate or a slice of chocolate cake makes a decadent finish.
Cheese Plate
Pairing a cheese plate with your homemade Manhattan can elevate the experience, turning a simple drink into a mini feast. I love selecting a mix of cheeses like sharp cheddar, creamy brie, and tangy blue cheese—each brings a unique flavor that complements the drink’s richness. Add some salty nuts, like Marcona almonds, and a handful of dried fruits for a sweet balance. Crackers or a crusty baguette are great for texture. The combination of savory, creamy, and crunchy bites alongside the smooth, bold Manhattan feels indulgent yet approachable—it’s my go-to way to make cocktail hour feel special.
Chocolate Desserts
Moving from savory cheese plates to something sweet, chocolate desserts make a fantastic match for a homemade Manhattan. I love pairing rich, dark chocolate cake with the cocktail’s bold flavors—it’s like a match made in dessert heaven. If you’re feeling fancy, try chocolate truffles with a hint of orange; the citrus complements the whiskey beautifully. Brownies are another go-to for me—chewy, fudgy, and perfect for sharing. And don’t forget chocolate mousse! Its light, airy texture balances the Manhattan’s richness. Honestly, any chocolate treat feels indulgent alongside this drink. Just remember, it’s all about enjoying the little luxuries. Cheers to great pairings!
