Pickleback Cocktail

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Combine the popular shot and chaser combo for a fun pickle juice cocktail! Garnish your pickleback cocktail with fresh dill and pickle spear.

Where are my pickle lovers at?! Y'all are going to love this fun and easy homemade cocktail.

This pickle juice whiskey sour takes happy hour to the next level. It's unexpected but somehow works brilliantly. Don't knock it till you try it!

What is a pickleback?

Pickleback shots originated from The Bushwick Country Club bar in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Reggie Cunningham is thought to be the originator of the popular shot back in 2006.

A pickle back is a shot of bourbon or whiskey, followed by a shot of pickle brine.

I haven't take a shot of liquor since my college days, but wanted to create a cocktail based off one of my favorite shots of all time! The end result tastes similar to a whiskey sour, but less sweet, more savory, and tangy.

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need to make this simple cocktail at home:

Whiskey or bourbon
Pickle juice
Fresh lime juice
Simple syrup

The citrus from the lime juice cuts the burn of the alcohol and the sweetness of the pickle juice.

The simple syrup makes this cocktail with pickle juice perfectly sippable.

How to Make Simple Syrup for Cocktails

Homemade simple syrup is surprisingly simple to make, budget friendly, and easily adaptable. It's an easy-to-remember 1:1 ratio using sugar and water.

In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water and stir to dissolve. Bring to a simmer, remove from heat, then let cool. In total, this will take about 20 minutes.

Store simple syrup in a sealed squeeze bottle or jar in the fridge for 3-4 weeks.

1 cup sugar + 1 cup water yields approximately 1 ½ cups simple syrup.

Equipment

How to Make a Pickleback Cocktail

Stir the whiskey, pickle juice, lime juice, and simple syrup together in your mixing glass. Pour into 2 cocktail glasses filled with ice. Garnish and serve.

Pickle Juice Drink FAQ

What is the best whiskey for a pickleback cocktail?

You can use any type of whiskey, although it’s commonly served using Jameson Irish Whiskey.

Can I use a different type of alcohol?

If you're not a fan of whiskey, use vodka or tequila instead.

What is the best kind of pickle juice for a pickleback?

Use your favorite kind of pickle juice. Both bread & butter pickles or dill pickle juice will work just fine.

What type of food pairs best with a whiskey cocktail?

I enjoy this cocktail during happy hour or as a nightcap served with dried fruits, nuts, and dark chocolate.

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I hope you enjoy this easy pickleback recipe! If you give it a try, please share a photo with me over on Instagram.