Bourbon Root Beer

By Steve Kilcullen Jump to Recipe

Make yourself a creamy and relaxing Bourbon Root Beer as the day winds down.

I can never sit back and enjoy a frosty mug of root beer without thinking about Snoopy. If you’re a big Peanuts fan, like I am, you’re probably aware of Charlie Brown’s dog and his unabashed love of a tall, creamy and smooth root beer. And every Veteran’s Day, the World War I flying ace would don his dress greens and head to his favorite water hole to quaff a few cold root beers with his war buddy Ol’ Bill Mauldin. And when second and third rounds were ordered, Snoopy often requested extra ice cream in them.

Tonight’s cocktail is a more grown-up version of the drink that Snoopy favored, and this take doesn’t feature any ice cream in it. That doesn’t mean you can’t add any to it, if you like. Summer is upon us, and an ice cream float, especially a boozy one, is always a welcome distraction.

The Bourbon Root Beer is just that, bourbon and root beer. The smoky and smooth spirit, with hints of vanilla, caramel and oak, almost becomes one with the fizzy and spicy soda. Some folks have bottled this idea, and quite successfully, too. But nothing beats a homemade libation, filled with as much bourbon as your root beer can hold.

What is the best bourbon to use in a Bourbon Root Beer?

When choosing the spirit to make your Bourbon Root Beer with, half the battle is already won. First off, you know already that you’ll need some smooth and smoky bourbon, possibly from a bottle of High West or Maker’s Mark. My go-to has been Bulleit, as it is both a fantastic and strong dram, as well as a great price. I’ve also noticed this brand quite a bit in many of the bars I’ve been in lately. You can use rye whiskey, but that will have a slightly spicier edge. The smokiness of the bourbon mixes wonderfully with the flavors of the root beer.

What glassware and garnish are used?

Grab a tall and sturdy glass to drink this beverage out of. You can chill it in your freezer for up to 15 minutes before, too. Fill it with ice, pour your mixture over and pop a few straws in.

What other spirits work well with root beer?

Bourbon is an almost perfect alcohol for mixing with root beer. But what else works in the creamy soda? Rum is a fantastic option, especially a spiced or dark variety. Vodka is a nice choice as well, and will let the root beer do most of the work while adding that wonderful bite and heat on the finish.

Similar drinks to the Bourbon Root Beer

After you’ve guzzled a few Bourbon Root Beers this evening, you may be wondering what other cocktails might hit your taste buds in a similarly comforting way. Are you craving something creamy, spicy and decadent? Let Twist & Toast help give you a few ideas for your next evening tipple.

• Alcoholic Root Beer Float – Have some dessert and a boozy beverage all at once with this treat.
• Colorado Bulldog – A creamy, caffeinated and carbonated cocktail.
• Moose Milk – A spiked ice cream concoction, with rum and vodka as part of the spirit base.
• Brandy Alexander With Ice Cream – Brandy and ice cream combine for a delectable and undeniable digestif.