Sazerac-Inspired Rye Cocktail with Herbaceous Twist

By AislePrompt Editorial · ·

How this recipe was made — this recipe was drafted by AislePrompt's AI-assisted pipeline from technique templates and USDA-sourced nutrition data, and published by AislePrompt Editorial — see how AislePrompt recipes are developed and reviewed.

A classic rye whiskey cocktail with a touch of herbal complexity from fresh thyme and absinthe rinse. This recipe, ready in about 10 minutes, brings together rye whiskey, simple syrup (1:1), Peychaud's bitters for a refreshing, crowd-pleasing drink — a bright, easy pour for parties, gatherings, or any warm-weather afternoon when you want something festive without alcohol-only options. Each serving lands at about 180 calories and feeds 1, so it works for entertaining, brunch, or a non-alcoholic option at the bar cart. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Serves 1 Cocktails cuisine 180 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Chill a rocks glass by filling it with ice and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In a mixing glass, combine 2 oz rye whiskey, 0.25 oz simple syrup, and 3 dashes Peychaud's bitters.
  3. Step 3: Fill the mixing glass with ice cubes to the brim and stir gently with a bar spoon for 30 seconds to chill and dilute.
  4. Step 4: Discard the ice from the rocks glass, then pour 0.25 oz absinthe into it, swirling to coat the inside. Discard any excess absinthe.
  5. Step 5: Strain the whiskey mixture into the absinthe-rinsed rocks glass over a single large clear ice cube.
  6. Step 6: Express the oils of 1 lemon peel over the surface by holding it with the outer side facing down and twisting firmly, then rub the peel around the rim and drop it into the glass.
  7. Step 7: Garnish with a fresh thyme sprig laid across the ice.

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