Bourbon Persimmon Cocktail

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Combines the smooth, rich flavors of bourbon with the sweet, fruity notes of fresh persimmons
• A perfectly balanced, indulgent drink, similar to my Peach Whiskey Sour and Black Walnut Old Fashioned
• Velvety texture with warming undertones and refreshing hints of citrus
• A must-try twist on the classic Old Fashioned, perfect for fall and winter entertaining

What is a Persimmon?

There are two common varieties of Asian persimmons, the Fuyu and the Hachiya. My neighbor happens to have a Hachiya tree, so that is the variety I used for this recipe and for my Persimmon Syrup.

Hachiya persimmons are a light orange color when picked, heart or acorn-shaped, and can be astringent. They have a high amount of tannins, so you do not want to bite into one until it is super soft and ripe (trust me on this one).

Fuyu persimmons are more round-shaped. They also have tannins but are much less astringent than the Hachiya variety. You can eat this type while it is still firm and more like an apple.

Are Persimmons Good For You?

Yes! Persimmons are a nutritious fruit that provides fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. One medium Japanese persimmon contains about 6 grams of dietary fiber, along with vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and other beneficial nutrients.

The bright orange color of persimmons comes from carotenoids such as beta-carotene, which have antioxidant properties. Vitamin A supports healthy vision and immune function, while fiber helps support healthy digestion.

How do you Know When A Hachiya Persimmon is Ripe?

Hachiya persimmons will ripen at room temperature. Although you want to pick them when they are firm and light orange, you do not want to eat them yet!

You will know the fruit is ready to eat when it feels soft to the touch, like a very ripe tomato, and the color has become much darker. The leaves at the top should come off pretty easily at this point as well. If you want your persimmons to ripen faster, you can place them in a paper bag with an apple.

Are Persimmons Good For You?

Yes, persimmon fruit is good for you! They are full of vitamin A and other nutrients like thiamin, riboflavin, folate, magnesium, and phosphorus. Persimmons are also known for their high fiber content, antioxidant qualities, and possible anti-inflammatory benefits.

How to Make a Bourbon Persimmon Cocktail

Place all of the ingredients in a mixing glass with fresh ice. Stir until nice and cold. Strain into a cocktail glass with a large ice cube. Garnish with a persimmon wheel or orange peel.

How to Make a Dehydrated Persimmon Wheel

To make a dehydrated persimmon slice, take an unripened persimmon and slice it thin. Start at the bottom and work up to the top to get the star shape in the middle. Place the slices on a dehydrator tray and dehydrate for 6-8 hours at 135°F.

You can also make dried persimmon slices in the oven. Place the slices on a baking sheet and bake in the oven at 200°F for 3-4 hours, flipping every hour.

What to Serve with a Bourbon Persimmon Cocktail

• A cheese board with soft, creamy cheeses like brie
• Spiced nuts or a charcuterie spread
• Gingerbread or dark chocolate desserts to bring out the bourbon's warmth

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