Black Walnut Bitters Cocktail Recipes

These Black Walnut Bitters Cocktail Recipes are smooth, boozy, and flavorful. The aromatics of the black walnut bitters and the orange peel added to the strong liquors make these craft cocktails sippers to be enjoyed by the fire or after a delicious meal.

I love to go to restaurants to see what's on the cocktail menu. After sampling, I go home and try to make my own version. I recently had a drink at a local restaurant called Backyard Social made with black walnut bitters. I couldn't wait to go home make similar Black Walnut Bitters Cocktail Recipes! This is less expensive than always drinking at a bar not to mention fun!

What are Bitters?

Bitters are made from aromatic botanicals, like herbs, roots, bark, and sometimes fruits or vegetables. They are infused into a flavorless alcohol base. This results in a very strong and potent liquid. Bitters are like the seasoning of a cocktail. They bring out the other flavors in the drink or add additional flavor based on the type of bitter being used. Sometimes bitters even have medicinal qualities.

Make sure you have the right tools.

Being a home bartender can be so much fun...if you have the right tools. You don't have to break the bank and you don't have to own EVERY tool you've ever seen at a bar. BUT, if you want good cocktails, you need the right tools. Check out my post on Home Bar Tool Essentials for a complete list.

For these cocktails, you will need a mixing glass and a bartender's spoon to stir the cocktails.

You will also need a cocktail glass for sipping.

And you will need an ice cube tray to make a cocktail cube.

Black Walnut Bitters Cocktail with Gin

This first black walnut bitters cocktail recipe is called the Black Walnut Social and it reminds me a little of a Negroni. I made this with a bourbon barrel gin from Captive Spirits I received as a gift, but you could use an Old Tom gin as well. It's a little spicy and dark, so it's a perfect pairing with the black walnut bitters. Be careful, it's boozy but so smooth and delicious it's easy to drink quickly! It's great for sipping by the fire, entertaining friends, or ending your day after the kids go to bed.

What is Cardamaro?

Cardamaro is not a cardamom-flavored amaro, which can be easily mistaken. It's a wine-based amaro based on the artichoke (cardoon and blessed thistle). It is very herbally and spicy, but also smooth, unlike some amaros. It's a great replacement where vermouth is used since it has a wine base.

What is a good Cardamaro Substitute?

Cardamaro can be hard to find. But, you can substitute Averna Amaro, Cynar, Amaro Nonino, Ramazotti, Ciociaro, or other amaro liqueurs and get a similar taste. If you do get your hands on a bottle of Cardamaro, treat it like gold, and enjoy every sip!

More Craft Cocktail Recipes to Try:

• Classic Daiquiri
• Lilac Gin Cocktail Recipe
• Strawberry Gin Cocktail
• Modern Negroni
• Homemade Creme de Cassis

Black Walnut Bitters Cocktail with Whiskey

The second black walnut bitters cocktail recipe has whiskey in it. I am partial to Rye Whiskeys but you can use whatever type you like. Similar to an Old Fashioned, all you need is a great whiskey, bitters, and a dash of sweetener to make an easy and satisfying drink.

Did you make one of these Black Walnut Bitter Cocktails?

If you make one or more of these cocktails, take a photo and tag me on Instagram or Facebook and show me what's in your glass. Cheers! Don't forget to sign up for my newsletter and to follow me on Pinterest for even more Cocktail Recipes, Food Recipes, and Tips!