Top 19 Easy Smoked Cocktails To Try Now

Are you in search of an intriguing and flavour-packed cocktail experience? Look no further than smoky cocktails. 

With their alluring aroma and unique taste, smoky cocktails have been capturing the attention of cocktail enthusiasts around the globe.

If you've been wondering how to infuse that enticing smoky element into your drinks, we've got you covered. 

In this article, we'll introduce you to the world of smoky cocktails and present 19 easy-to-make recipes that will elevate your mixology game. 

Get ready to embark on a journey of bold flavours and tantalizing aromas.

Understanding Smoky Cocktails:

Before we dive into the recipes, let's take a moment to understand the allure of smoky cocktails. The marriage of spirits and smoky flavours creates a delightful fusion that appeals to both whisky aficionados and adventurous cocktail enthusiasts. 

Whether you prefer the peaty richness of scotch, the smoky complexity of mezcal, or the smoothness of bourbon, smoky cocktails offer a captivating sensory experience that can't be replicated with any other type of drink.

To achieve the perfect smoky profile, various methods are employed. Traditional smoking techniques infuse the cocktails with smoky notes, while some spirits and ingredients themselves carry a natural smokiness. 

Additionally, innovative smoke infusers and tools have made it easier than ever to experiment and create your own signature smoky concoctions.

Essential Ingredients for Smoky Cocktails:

When it comes to crafting smoky cocktails, selecting the right ingredients is key. Let's explore the essential components that contribute to a harmonious and well-balanced drink.

Start with the spirits. Whiskies, such as scotch and bourbon, lend themselves beautifully to smoky cocktails. Their distinct flavours and inherent smokiness provide a solid foundation for your creations. Tequila and its smoky cousin, mezcal, bring a unique twist to the table, adding depth and character to your drinks.

To complement the smoky notes, consider incorporating bitters and herbal liqueurs. These ingredients provide an additional layer of complexity and balance. Don't shy away from experimenting with fruits, herbs, and spices that enhance and harmonize with the smoky element, creating a truly immersive cocktail experience.

The Top 19 Easy Smoked Cocktails:

Now that we've explored the fundamentals, let's dive into the exciting part: the cocktails themselves. We've curated a list of 19 easy-to-make smoked cocktails that will take your taste buds on a flavourful adventure. Remember, feel free to experiment, adjust proportions, and add your personal touch to create a cocktail that suits your preferences perfectly. Balancing flavours is an art, and this is your chance to become the master of mixology.

Smoky Old Fashioned

Recipe:

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 tsp simple syrup
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Orange peel for garnish

Smoke infusion: Place a smoking gun over the mixing glass and infuse with hickory smoke for 20 seconds.

Flavour Profile: A classic cocktail with a smoky twist. The rich, caramel notes of bourbon blend harmoniously with the smoky aroma, complemented by the bittersweet accents of orange.

Tips: To enhance the smoky element, consider experimenting with different types of wood chips, such as cherry or apple, during the smoke infusion process.

Mezcal Margarita

Recipe:

• 2 oz mezcal
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz agave syrup
• Salt for rimming

Smoke infusion: Smoke the glass with mesquite wood chips before adding the cocktail ingredients.

Flavour Profile: A smoky twist on a beloved classic. The earthy and smoky flavours of mezcal complement the tartness of lime and the sweetness of agave, creating a vibrant and well-balanced cocktail.

Tips: Consider adding a touch of chipotle pepper or jalapeño for a spicy kick that complements the smoky notes.

Smoky Negroni

Recipe:

• 1 oz gin
• 1 oz sweet vermouth
• 1 oz Campari
• Orange peel for garnish

Smoke infusion: Place a smoking gun over the mixing glass and infuse with oak smoke for 15 seconds.

Flavour Profile: A bold and bitter-sweet cocktail with a smoky twist. The botanicals of the gin, the herbal richness of sweet vermouth, and the bitter complexity of Campari combine beautifully with the smoky infusion.

Tips: Enhance the smoky element by experimenting with different types of wood chips or adding a dash of smoky bitters to the mix.

Smoked Whisky Sour

Recipe:

• 2 oz whisky (preferably scotch)
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• Egg white (optional)

Smoke infusion: Place a smoking gun over the cocktail shaker and infuse with beechwood smoke for 20 seconds.

Flavour Profile: A timeless cocktail with a smoky twist. The smoky whisky base blends harmoniously with the bright citrus flavours and the hint of sweetness from the simple syrup, resulting in a balanced and refreshing drink.

Tips: Experiment with different whisky varieties, such as peated scotch, to intensify the smoky character. For an added touch, garnish with a smoky cinnamon stick.

Maple Smoked Manhattan

Recipe:

• 2 oz rye whisky
• 1 oz sweet vermouth
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Maraschino cherry for garnish

Smoke infusion: Smoke the glass with maple wood chips before adding the cocktail ingredients.

Flavour Profile: A luxurious and smoky twist on a classic cocktail. The rich rye whisky, the deep sweetness of vermouth, and the aromatic bitters combine with the subtle maple smoke, creating a sophisticated and memorable drink.

Tips: Consider experimenting with barrel-aged bitters or garnishing with a smoky, candied bacon strip for an indulgent touch.

Smoked Paloma

Recipe:

• 2 oz tequila
• 3 oz grapefruit soda
• 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
• Salt for rimming

Smoke infusion: Place a smoking gun over the cocktail glass and infuse with mesquite smoke for 15 seconds.

Flavour Profile: A refreshing and smoky twist on a Mexican favorite. The smoky tequila complements the bright and tangy grapefruit soda, with a touch of lime adding a zesty note for a perfectly balanced cocktail.

Tips: Enhance the smoky element by rimming the glass with smoked salt or adding a few drops of liquid smoke to the mix.

Smoked Spiced Mojito

Recipe:

• 2 oz white rum
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz simple syrup
• Club soda
• Fresh mint leaves

Smoke infusion: Smoke the glass with applewood chips before preparing the cocktail.

Flavour Profile: A tropical delight with a smoky kick. The smoky rum harmonizes with the refreshing lime and the aromatic mint, creating a vibrant and invigorating cocktail that transports you to a sunny beach.

Tips: Experiment with different rum varieties, such as aged or spiced rum, to add depth and complexity to the smoky profile. Garnish with a sprig of smoked mint for an extra layer of flavour.

Smoky Espresso Martini

Recipe:

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz coffee liqueur
• 1 oz freshly brewed espresso
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• Coffee beans for garnish

Smoke infusion: Place a smoking gun over the cocktail shaker and infuse with oak smoke for 15 seconds.

Flavour Profile: A bold and indulgent cocktail with a smoky twist. The smoky notes complement the rich flavours of coffee liqueur, vodka, and freshly brewed espresso, resulting in a velvety and aromatic drink.

Tips: Experiment with different coffee liqueur brands or add a touch of smoky chocolate syrup for a luxurious variation. Garnish with a few smoked coffee beans for a visually stunning presentation.

Smoked Berry Smash

Recipe:

• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1 oz simple syrup
• Assorted berries (e.g., raspberries, blackberries)
• Fresh mint leaves

Smoke infusion: Place a smoking gun over the cocktail glass and infuse with cherry wood smoke for 15 seconds.

Flavour Profile: A fruity and refreshing cocktail with a subtle smokey undertone. The vibrant berries, tangy lemon, and aromatic gin meld together with the delicate smoke infusion, creating a delightful drink bursting with flavours.

Tips: Experiment with different combinations of berries or muddle a smoky rosemary sprig with the ingredients for a herbaceous twist.

Smoked Pineapple Margarita

Recipe:

• 2 oz tequila
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz pineapple juice
• 1/2 oz agave syrup
• Grilled pineapple wedge for garnish

Smoke infusion: Smoke the glass with pecan wood chips before preparing the cocktail.

Flavour Profile: A tropical paradise with a smoky twist. The smoky tequila blends harmoniously with the tangy lime, sweet pineapple, and hints of agave, transporting you to a beachside getaway. The smoky element adds depth and complexity to the refreshing flavours of this margarita.

Tips: Experiment with grilling the pineapple before juicing it to intensify the smoky notes. Additionally, rim the glass with a mixture of chili powder and smoked sea salt for a spicy and smoky kick.

Smoked Maple Old Fashioned

Recipe:

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1/4 oz maple syrup
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Orange peel for garnish

Smoke infusion: Place a smoking gun over the mixing glass and infuse with maple smoke for 20 seconds.

Flavour Profile: A comforting and sophisticated cocktail with a touch of smoky sweetness. The rich bourbon, the warmth of maple syrup, and the aromatic bitters blend together perfectly, enhanced by the delicate infusion of maple smoke.

Tips: Consider using a smoked salt rim for an extra smoky and savory element. Garnish with a smoky cinnamon stick for added aroma.

Smoked Blackberry Whisky Smash

Recipe:

• 2 oz whisky (preferably bourbon)
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 3/4 oz simple syrup
• Handful of fresh blackberries
• Fresh mint leaves

Smoke infusion: Place a smoking gun over the cocktail glass and infuse with applewood smoke for 15 seconds.

Flavour Profile: A fruity and refreshing cocktail with a smoky twist. The muddled blackberries add a burst of sweetness, while the smoky whisky, tangy lemon, and fragrant mint create a well-balanced and vibrant drink.

Tips: Enhance the smoky element by using a smoky bourbon or adding a touch of smoked blackberry liqueur. Garnish with a sprig of smoked mint for an elegant presentation.

Smoked Cherry Manhattan

Recipe:

• 2 oz rye whisky
• 1 oz sweet vermouth
• 2 dashes cherry bitters
• Maraschino cherry for garnish

Smoke infusion: Smoke the glass with cherry wood chips before adding the cocktail ingredients.

Flavour Profile: A sophisticated and luxurious cocktail with a smoky cherry twist. The robust rye whisky, the deep sweetness of vermouth, and the subtle bitterness of cherry bitters are perfectly complemented by the delicate smoky undertones.

Tips: Experiment with barrel-aged cherry bitters or garnish with a smoked maraschino cherry for added complexity and visual appeal.

Smoked Peach Bellini

Recipe:

• 2 oz peach puree
• 4 oz prosecco or sparkling wine

Smoke infusion: Place a smoking gun over the cocktail glass and infuse with peach wood smoke for 10 seconds.

Flavour Profile: A sparkling and refreshing cocktail with a hint of smoky sweetness. The natural sweetness and bright flavours of the peach puree harmonize beautifully with the effervescence of the prosecco, while the subtle smoky infusion adds depth to the overall experience.

Tips: Enhance the smoky element by using grilled peaches for the puree or adding a splash of smoked peach liqueur. Serve in a chilled glass for a crisp and delightful Bellini.

Smoked Blood Orange Margarita

Recipe:

• 2 oz tequila
• 1 oz fresh blood orange juice
• 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
• 1/2 oz agave syrup
• Blood orange slice for garnish

Smoke infusion: Smoke the glass with mesquite wood chips before preparing the cocktail.

Flavour Profile: A vibrant and citrusy margarita with a smoky twist. The smoky tequila, the tangy blood orange juice, the refreshing lime, and the touch of sweetness from agave syrup create a harmonious blend of flavours that will tantalize your taste buds.

Tips: Consider adding a splash of smoky mezcal for an extra layer of complexity or garnishing with a smoky chili salt rim for a spicy and smoky kick.

Smoked Lavender Gin Fizz

Recipe:

• 2 oz gin
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 oz lavender syrup
• Club soda
• Fresh lavender sprig for garnish

Smoke infusion: Place a smoking gun over the cocktail glass and infuse with lavender smoke for 15 seconds.

Flavour Profile: A floral and refreshing cocktail with a touch of smokiness. The botanicals of the gin, the zesty lemon, and the delicate lavender syrup combine perfectly, enhanced by the subtle infusion of lavender smoke.

Tips: Experiment with different gin varieties that have floral or herbal notes. For a unique presentation, garnish with a sprig of smoked lavender or a lavender-infused sugar rim.

Smoked Cinnamon Whisky Sour

Recipe:

• 2 oz whisky (preferably cinnamon-infused)
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• Egg white (optional)
• Cinnamon stick for garnish

Smoke infusion: Place a smoking gun over the cocktail shaker and infuse with oak smoke for 15 seconds.

Flavour Profile: A cozy and comforting cocktail with a touch of smoky warmth. The cinnamon-infused whisky, the tangy lemon, and the touch of sweetness from simple syrup create a harmonious blend of flavours, accentuated by the subtle smoky undertones.

Tips: Experiment with different cinnamon-infused whiskies or add a dash of smoky cinnamon liqueur. Garnish with a smoky cinnamon stick for an aromatic and visually striking presentation.

Smoked Coconut Mojito

Recipe:

• 2 oz white rum
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz coconut syrup
• Club soda
• Fresh mint leaves

Smoke infusion: Place a smoking gun over the cocktail glass and infuse with coconut wood smoke for 15 seconds.

Flavour Profile: A tropical delight with a smoky twist. The smoky rum, the zesty lime, the creamy coconut syrup, and the refreshing mint come together to create a luscious and invigorating cocktail reminiscent of a sun-soaked beach getaway.

Tips: Enhance the smoky element by using a smoky coconut rum or adding a splash of smoky coconut liqueur. Garnish with a sprig of smoked mint and a toasted coconut rim for a tropical paradise in a glass.

Smoked Apple Mule

Recipe:

• 2 oz vodka
• 3 oz apple cider
• 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
• Ginger beer
• Apple slice for garnish

Smoke infusion: Place a smoking gun over the cocktail glass and infuse with applewood smoke for 15 seconds.

Flavour Profile: A refreshing and crisp cocktail with a smoky apple twist. The smooth vodka, the naturally sweet apple cider, the zesty lime, and the effervescence of ginger beer create a delightful balance of flavours, enhanced by the subtle smoky infusion.

Tips: Experiment with different apple cider varieties for unique flavour profiles or add a dash of smoky apple bitters to intensify the smoky notes. Garnish with a thin slice of smoked apple for a visually appealing presentation.

Remember, the beauty of mixology lies in experimentation and personalization. Feel free to adjust the proportions, substitute ingredients, or add your own creative twists to these recipes. 

The key is to find the perfect balance of flavours and embrace the smoky element to create a cocktail that truly suits your taste preferences.

Now that you have the top 19 easy smoked cocktails at your fingertips, it's time to embark on a flavour-filled journey. Whether you're hosting a gathering, relaxing at home, or simply craving a unique libation, these smoky cocktails are sure to impress. 

So grab your favorite spirits, fire up the smoker, and let the aromatic allure of smoky cocktails transport you to a world of extraordinary flavours. 

Cheers to the smoky adventure that awaits!