How to Make a Chinese 5 Spice Bourbon Cocktail

Make your own five-spice blended simple syrup to add to this easy Bourbon cocktail at home, perfect for the holidays!

Backstory: A couple of years ago, I was invited to an Epic Chinese Potluck with a guest-list of Los Angeles’ top chefs! The task was to bring a Chinese themed dish to share at the party. I got so nervous. What could I bring!? Luckily, I knew cocktails are always a great addition to a party, and who doesn’t love bourbon when it’s wintertime!

With a little help from my friend @phillycheesecake, this 5 Spice Bourbon Cocktail was created!

The first step in creating this drink, is to make your 5 spice simple syrup. This is the differentiating factor to level up this drink and make it more than just a bourbon sour.

For the 5 Spice Simple Syrup you will need

– equal parts sugar & water

-cinnamon stick

-star anise

-fennel seed

-Sichuan peppercorn

-cloves.

Traditional simple syrup is made by adding equal parts sugar and water to a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.

Here is where we make the variation!

Lightly toast each of your 5 spices individually to bring out their full flavor and release the oils. (I know you are going to want to throw them all in a pan, but this will ensure everything is evenly toasted.

Now add all five toasted spices to a pot with equal parts sugar and water. Once the sugar dissolves with the five spices, let it steep for about 20 minutes. Strain your spices, let the syrup cool, and pour into a glass jar.

Finally, it’s time mix your cocktail!

For the Cocktail you will need:

-2 oz Bourbon

-3/4 oz fresh lime juice (1 oz)

-3/4 oz 5 Spice Simple Syrup

-ice -cocktail shaker

-strainer

Shake all ingredients above, pour your drink, and enjoy!