Retro Cocktails – the Jack Rabbit Recipe

Welcome to my retro cocktail recipe article, where I’ll be sharing with you one of my all-time favorites – the Jack Rabbit cocktail. This classic cocktail has been around since the early 1900s and has been featured in many cocktail books, including the Savoy Cocktail Book and the Mr. Boston Drinks Manual.

I first discovered this cocktail while working at the Dead Rabbit Grocery and Grog in New York City, where it’s a staple on the menu. The Dead Rabbit was named the world’s best bar in 2016 and 2017, and this cocktail is one of the reasons why. The Jack Rabbit is a perfect blend of sweet and sour flavors, with a kick from the Bourbon and Gin.

I’m excited to share this recipe with you, so let’s get started! Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress. So grab your lemons, Bourbon, and dry Gin, and let’s mix up some delicious Jack Rabbit cocktails.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail that will transport you back to the golden age of cocktails? Look no further than the Jack Rabbit cocktail! This classic cocktail has been a favorite of bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts for decades, and for good reason.

First and foremost, the Jack Rabbit is a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors. With the tartness of freshly squeezed lemon juice, the sweetness of applejack, and the warmth of bourbon, this cocktail is sure to tantalize your taste buds. The addition of simple syrup and orange juice takes this drink to the next level, creating a smooth and refreshing sip that is perfect for any occasion.

Another reason to love the Jack Rabbit is its versatility. While this cocktail is traditionally made with applejack, you can easily substitute other fruit brandies or liqueurs to create your own unique twist on the classic recipe. You can also experiment with different types of whiskey, such as rye or Tennessee whiskey, to add complexity and depth to the drink.

Finally, the Jack Rabbit is a perfect cocktail for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a retro-themed party or just looking for a sophisticated drink to sip on after a long day, this cocktail is sure to impress. It’s also a great cocktail to pair with food, particularly rabbit meat or hearty stews.

Overall, the Jack Rabbit is a timeless classic that every cocktail enthusiast should try at least once. With its perfect balance of flavors, versatility, and sophistication, it’s no wonder why this cocktail has stood the test of time. So why not give it a try and transport yourself back to the golden age of cocktails?

Ingredient List

Here are the ingredients needed to make Jack Rabbit Cocktail:

• Bourbon – 2 oz
• Dry Gin – 3/4 oz
• Applejack – 1/2 oz
• Lemon Juice – 3/4 oz freshly squeezed
• Orange Juice – 1/4 oz freshly squeezed
• Maple Syrup – 1/4 oz
• French Vermouth – 1/4 oz
• Liqueur – 1/2 oz
• Simple Syrup – 2 dashes
• Dead Rabbit Orinoco Bitters – 6 dashes

Note that the original recipe from the 1930 Savoy Cocktail Book calls for Old Mr. Boston Dry Gin, but you can use any gin you prefer. Make sure you have all the ingredients on hand before you begin making the cocktail. You can find most of these ingredients at your local liquor store.

The Recipe How-To

Now that you have gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to make the Jack Rabbit Cocktail. Here’s how to do it:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz gin
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 oz maple syrup
• 1/2 oz applejack
• 1/4 oz French vermouth
• 6 dashes of orange juice

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the gin, fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, applejack, French vermouth, and orange juice.
2. Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds until the mixture is well chilled.
3. Strain the cocktail into a chilled glass.
4. Garnish with a lemon twist.

Congratulations! You have just made a Jack Rabbit Cocktail.

Note that if you want to make a large batch of this cocktail, you can use a pitcher and multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you want to make. Just remember to adjust the ice accordingly so that the cocktail is properly chilled.

Now, sit back, sip your drink and enjoy the bold and citrusy flavors of this classic cocktail.

Substitutions and Variations

The Jack Rabbit cocktail recipe is a classic drink that has a unique flavor profile. However, there are ways you can put your spin on the recipe to make it your own. Here are some substitutions and variations to try:

– Spirit Swap: Instead of Bourbon, you can swap it with applejack or Irish whiskey for a different taste.

– Citrus Substitution: While lemon juice is usually the go-to for this recipe, you can substitute it with orange juice for a sweeter taste.

– Gin Variation: If you want to add gin to the mix, try using a dry gin like Plymouth or Botanist gin.

– Sweetener Swap: Simple syrup is the usual sweetener used in this recipe, but you can switch it up by using maple syrup or honey for a different flavor.

– Vermouth Variation: You can change the recipe’s flavor profile by swapping French vermouth with Italian vermouth.

– Rabbit Meat Pairing: To pair with the Jack Rabbit cocktail, you can try serving rabbit stew, a classic dish from Buffalo, NY.

– Large Format Cocktails: If you are having a party and want to make a large batch of Jack Rabbit cocktails, you can mix the ingredients in a pitcher and serve it over ice.

– Retro Cocktail Book: For those who love to experiment with vintage cocktail recipes, check out the “Savoy Cocktail Book” or “Mr. Boston Drinks Manual” for inspiration.

These substitutions and variations allow you to create unique flavors and experiment with different ingredients to make the Jack Rabbit cocktail your own. Don’t be afraid to try new things and see what works best for you.

Serving and Pairing

The Jack Rabbit cocktail is a classic drink that is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a retro cocktail party or just want to enjoy a delicious drink at home. This cocktail is best served in a chilled glass, to keep the flavors and the temperature at their best.

When it comes to pairing, the Jack Rabbit cocktail is a versatile drink that can be paired with a variety of dishes. The fruity and sweet notes in the cocktail make it a great pairing for spicy and savory dishes, like buffalo wings or rabbit stew. The bourbon and gin also make it a great complement to grilled meats or rich pasta dishes.

For a non-alcoholic option, you can also serve the Jack Rabbit as a mocktail by omitting the bourbon and applejack and replacing them with sparkling water or soda. This will create a refreshing and flavorful drink that is perfect for those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks.

When it comes to presentation, you can garnish the Jack Rabbit with a lemon twist or a fresh herb like thyme or rosemary. This will add an extra layer of flavor and aroma to the cocktail, and also make it look more appealing and sophisticated.

Overall, the Jack Rabbit cocktail is a timeless classic that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it at home, this cocktail is sure to impress and satisfy your taste buds.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

The Jack Rabbit cocktail is best served fresh, but you can still prep some of the ingredients ahead of time to make it easier to whip up when you’re ready to serve. You can squeeze the lemons and store the juice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before making the cocktail. You can also make the simple syrup in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

If you want to make a large batch of Jack Rabbit cocktails for a party or gathering, you can mix the bourbon, applejack, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a pitcher or airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 6 hours before serving. Add the ice and shake the cocktail with it just before serving to ensure it’s perfectly chilled.

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The cocktail will lose its freshness over time, but it should still be drinkable for up to 2 days. Just give it a good shake before serving to mix everything back together.

While the Jack Rabbit cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, it’s still possible to reheat it if you have any leftovers. But keep in mind that the flavor and texture may change. To reheat, pour the cocktail into a small saucepan and heat over low heat until warm, but not boiling. Serve immediately.

Overall, it’s best to make the Jack Rabbit cocktail fresh, but with a little bit of planning, you can still enjoy this delicious retro cocktail without having to make it from scratch every time.

Tips for Perfect Results

When it comes to making the perfect Jack Rabbit cocktail, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you achieve the best results. Here are some of my tried and tested tips for getting the most out of this classic cocktail recipe:

1. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice: The acidity of the lemon juice is crucial to balancing the sweetness of the syrup and the applejack, so make sure to use freshly squeezed lemons for the best flavor.

2. Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of the ingredients you use can make a big difference in the final product. Use a good quality bourbon and applejack, and if possible, opt for a French vermouth for a more complex flavor.

3. Don’t skimp on the simple syrup: The simple syrup is what gives this cocktail its sweetness, so make sure to use enough of it. I recommend using a 1:1 ratio of water and sugar to make your syrup.

4. Use a large ice cube: A large ice cube will melt more slowly than small cubes, which will help prevent your cocktail from getting watered down too quickly.

5. Garnish with a lemon twist: Not only does a lemon twist look beautiful on top of your cocktail, but it adds a burst of fresh lemon flavor to each sip.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the perfect Jack Rabbit cocktail every time. Cheers!

Bottom Line

In conclusion, the Jack Rabbit cocktail is not only a delicious drink but also a piece of history that has stood the test of time. Whether you are a fan of retro cocktails or just looking for something new to try, this drink is sure to impress. With its unique blend of Bourbon, apple jack, and lemon juice, it’s a perfect drink for any occasion.

So, next time you are in the mood for something special, give the Jack Rabbit cocktail a try. Whether you’re sipping it at home or ordering it at your favorite bar, you won’t be disappointed. And who knows, maybe it will inspire you to explore more of the world of vintage cocktails and discover some new favorites along the way.

So go ahead, grab your cocktail shaker and start mixing up some Jack Rabbit cocktails today! You won’t regret it. Cheers!

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