Enjoying delicious and refreshing cocktails can help you unwind with friends after a long week. Adding vanilla to homemade drinks may give them a delightfully sweet flavor and pleasant aroma. Here are a handful of alcoholic beverages you can make using vanilla extract. 

4 Cocktails to Make With Vanilla 

1. Paloma

The paloma is a classic cocktail that features a base of tequila and zesty grapefruit. Adding vanilla to this beverage can balance the brighter citrus notes and make for a smooth-sipping drink. To make a paloma, pour two ounces of tequila and two ounces of grapefruit juice into a rocks glass. Add one-half ounce of lime juice, one-quarter ounce of agave nectar, and a dash of vanilla extract before filling the glass with ice and topping with sparkling water. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit and vanilla bean before serving. 

2. Old Fashioned

The old fashioned is a sweet, slightly bitter, and booze-forward cocktail that's perfect for sipping slowly. Since it includes bourbon, which has vanilla tasting notes, adding vanilla to this drink can bring out the sweeter flavors of the liquor. Pour one-half an ounce of simple syrup and a couple of dashes of bitters and vanilla extract to a rocks glass before filling it with ice and stirring to combine the flavors. Add about two ounces of bourbon to the glass before serving with a cherry on top and vanilla bean garnish. 

3. Brandy Alexander

The Brandy Alexander is a decadent dessert cocktail that consists of cognac, crème de cacao, and cream. Incorporating vanilla into this beverage can enhance its sweetness and bring out the chocolatey notes. Add one-and-a-half ounces of cognac, one ounce of crème de cacao, one ounce of cream, and a dash of pure vanilla extract to a shaker with ice, and shake well to blend all ingredients. Strain into a coupe glass and top with a vanilla bean prior to serving.

4. White Russian

The White Russian is a traditional cocktail prepared with vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream. Vanilla extract can cut through the liquor and harmonize deliciously with the coffee and cream flavors. Pour equal parts vodka and coffee liqueur into a glass filled with ice and top with cream and a dash of vanilla. Stir gently, and insert a vanilla bean into the glass before enjoying it. For a sweeter take on this classic, you may substitute vodka for rum. 
 

When you need vanilla to make delectable cocktails, get in touch with Laie Vanilla Company. Located in Laie, HI, this local farm produces pure vanilla extract and organic vanilla beans for customers throughout Honolulu County. Call (808) 209-3354 to place an order for Hawaiian vanilla products, and visit the website to learn more about this vanilla grower and their inventory.