Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail Drink

Black-Eyed Susan

Are you craving a fun drink? The Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail recipe has you covered! Use simple ingredients to make this tasty cocktail in no time.

Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail Recipe

Enjoy the Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail recipe! Combine bourbon, vodka, peach schnapps, orange juice, and sour mix to create a refreshing spring drink.

Prep time:

1 minute

Mixing time:

1 minute

Servings:

1

Calories:

313 kl

Ingredients

  • 1 oz Bourbon
  • 1 oz Vodka
  • 1 oz Peach Schnapps
  • 2 oz orange juice
  • 2 oz sour mix
  • Ice cubes
  • Maraschino cherry and orange slice, for garnish

Equipment

  • Shaker
  • Cocktail Strainer
  • Highball Glass
  • Measuring Jigger

Instructions

  • Prep Glass: Fill your highball glass with ice cubes. Give it a quick stir and set it aside.
  • Add Juices: Take a cocktail shaker and pour in 2 oz orange juice and 2 oz sour mix.
  • Add Spirits: Now, pour 1 oz Bourbon, 1 oz Vodka, and 1 oz Peach Schnapps into the shaker as well.
  • Shake Well: Fill the shaker with ice, close it and give it a good shake (10-15 seconds).
  • Strain: Discard the ice in the Highball glass and refill it with fresh, new ice cubes. Then, use the cocktail strainer to strain the drink into the ice-filled glass.
  • Garnish: Garnish with a Maraschino cherry and an orange slice and serve immediately.

Notes

Substitutes:

  • Bourbon: If you don't have bourbon, you can substitute rye I've also tried using dark rum for a different but equally delicious flavor.
  • Vodka: You can replace vodka with gin if you prefer a more botanical taste. Tequila works, too, giving it a unique twist. Maybe adjust the quantity to taste: while vodka is a rather neutral spirit, these substitutes are stronger in taste and will give your drink an extra layer of flavor. 
  • Peach Schnapps: If you're out of peach schnapps, try using apricot brandy or a splash of peach syrup or nectar for a non-alcoholic option.
  • Sour Mix: If you don't have a sour mix, make your own by combining fresh lemon juice, fresh lime juice, warm water and powdered sugar. Start with equal parts of each, stir well to combine and dissolve the sugar and adjust to taste if necessary.

Making a Pitcher of Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail:

  • Scale: To make a pitcher that serves 8, multiply all the ingredients by 8. That would be 8 oz of bourbon, 8 oz of vodka, and 8 oz of peach schnapps, along with 16 oz of orange juice and 16 oz of sour mix.
  • Mix: In a large pitcher, combine the bourbon, vodka, peach schnapps, orange juice, and sour mix. Add ice and stir well.
  • Serve: Strain to remove the ice, serve immediately into ice-filled highball glasses and garnish each glass with a maraschino cherry and an orange slice. If you have some leftovers, be sure to keep it in the fridge (make sure no ice cubes are left inside) in an airtight container.

Making it Non-Alcoholic:

  • Bourbon Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic whiskey substitute; these are available and reasonably mimic bourbon's flavor profile. If you’re feeling crafty, you can also make your own bourbon substitute by infusing together rooibos tea and a bunch of spices of your liking (vanilla and cinnamon are always a good way to start). Mix all the ingredients together, add hot water, cover and let it infuse for at least 3h (the stronger the better, so if you have time let it infuse overnight. In that case, you can either let it rest in the fridge once the liquid has cooled down). Give it a taste, adjust the spice level if necessary and strain it once you’re happy with the result. Stored properly (in an airtight container in the fridge), this “tea-whiskey” can be kept for up to a week.
  • Vodka Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic vodka alternative or simply sparkling water or ginger ale to maintain the volume without adding flavor.
  • Peach Schnapps Substitute: Use peach nectar or peach-flavored syrup instead of peach schnapps.
  • Proceed As Usual: Use these non-alcoholic substitutes instead of the regular ingredients, follow the original steps, and enjoy a non-alcoholic version.

Making it Vegan:

The standard recipe is vegan-friendly since it contains no animal products. Ensure your sour mix is vegan (some commercial mixes may contain egg whites): if in doubt, you can easily make your own sour mix at home by combining equal parts fresh lemon juice, fresh lime juice, powdered sugar and water. You may also check the label of your maraschino cherries as some brands still use cochineal as a coloring agent (the classic candied cherries by Luxardo and Fabri are great vegan-friendly options).

Nutrition Facts

Calories
313
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
0.1
g
0
%
Saturated Fat
 
0.01
g
0
%
Sodium
 
9
mg
0
%
Carbohydrates
 
35
g
12
%
Fiber
 
0.1
g
0
%
Sugar
 
31
g
34
%
Potassium
 
156
mg
4
%
Protein
 
0.4
g
1
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
 
0.02
g
Monounsaturated Fat
 
0.02
g
Vitamin A
 
113
IU
2
%
Vitamin C
 
36
mg
44
%
Calcium
 
12
mg
1
%
Iron
 
0.1
mg
1
%

 

Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail Drink

Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail Recipe

Gavin Wrigley Written by Gavin Wrigley
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Enjoy the Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail recipe! Combine bourbon, vodka, peach schnapps, orange juice, and sour mix to create a refreshing spring drink.
Prep time: 1 minute
Mixing time: 1 minute
Servings: 1
Calories: 313

Ingredients
 

  • 1 oz Bourbon
  • 1 oz Vodka
  • 1 oz Peach Schnapps
  • 2 oz orange juice
  • 2 oz sour mix
  • Ice cubes
  • Maraschino cherry and orange slice - for garnish

Equipment

  • Shaker
  • Cocktail Strainer
  • Highball Glass
  • Measuring Jigger

Instructions

  • Prep Glass: Fill your highball glass with ice cubes. Give it a quick stir and set it aside.
  • Add Juices: Take a cocktail shaker and pour in 2 oz orange juice and 2 oz sour mix.
  • Add Spirits: Now, pour 1 oz Bourbon, 1 oz Vodka, and 1 oz Peach Schnapps into the shaker as well.
  • Shake Well: Fill the shaker with ice, close it and give it a good shake (10-15 seconds).
  • Strain: Discard the ice in the Highball glass and refill it with fresh, new ice cubes. Then, use the cocktail strainer to strain the drink into the ice-filled glass.
  • Garnish: Garnish with a Maraschino cherry and an orange slice and serve immediately.

Notes

Substitutes:

  • Bourbon: If you don't have bourbon, you can substitute rye I've also tried using dark rum for a different but equally delicious flavor.
  • Vodka: You can replace vodka with gin if you prefer a more botanical taste. Tequila works, too, giving it a unique twist. Maybe adjust the quantity to taste: while vodka is a rather neutral spirit, these substitutes are stronger in taste and will give your drink an extra layer of flavor. 
  • Peach Schnapps: If you're out of peach schnapps, try using apricot brandy or a splash of peach syrup or nectar for a non-alcoholic option.
  • Sour Mix: If you don't have a sour mix, make your own by combining fresh lemon juice, fresh lime juice, warm water and powdered sugar. Start with equal parts of each, stir well to combine and dissolve the sugar and adjust to taste if necessary.

Making a Pitcher of Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail:

  • Scale: To make a pitcher that serves 8, multiply all the ingredients by 8. That would be 8 oz of bourbon, 8 oz of vodka, and 8 oz of peach schnapps, along with 16 oz of orange juice and 16 oz of sour mix.
  • Mix: In a large pitcher, combine the bourbon, vodka, peach schnapps, orange juice, and sour mix. Add ice and stir well.
  • Serve: Strain to remove the ice, serve immediately into ice-filled highball glasses and garnish each glass with a maraschino cherry and an orange slice. If you have some leftovers, be sure to keep it in the fridge (make sure no ice cubes are left inside) in an airtight container.

Making it Non-Alcoholic:

  • Bourbon Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic whiskey substitute; these are available and reasonably mimic bourbon's flavor profile. If you’re feeling crafty, you can also make your own bourbon substitute by infusing together rooibos tea and a bunch of spices of your liking (vanilla and cinnamon are always a good way to start). Mix all the ingredients together, add hot water, cover and let it infuse for at least 3h (the stronger the better, so if you have time let it infuse overnight. In that case, you can either let it rest in the fridge once the liquid has cooled down). Give it a taste, adjust the spice level if necessary and strain it once you’re happy with the result. Stored properly (in an airtight container in the fridge), this “tea-whiskey” can be kept for up to a week.
  • Vodka Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic vodka alternative or simply sparkling water or ginger ale to maintain the volume without adding flavor.
  • Peach Schnapps Substitute: Use peach nectar or peach-flavored syrup instead of peach schnapps.
  • Proceed As Usual: Use these non-alcoholic substitutes instead of the regular ingredients, follow the original steps, and enjoy a non-alcoholic version.

Making it Vegan:

The standard recipe is vegan-friendly since it contains no animal products. Ensure your sour mix is vegan (some commercial mixes may contain egg whites): if in doubt, you can easily make your own sour mix at home by combining equal parts fresh lemon juice, fresh lime juice, powdered sugar and water. You may also check the label of your maraschino cherries as some brands still use cochineal as a coloring agent (the classic candied cherries by Luxardo and Fabri are great vegan-friendly options).

What is a Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail?

A Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail is a long-drink cocktail made of bourbon, vodka, peach schnapps, orange juice, and sour mix. This cocktail is named after the Maryland state flower and is traditionally served at the Preakness Stakes horse race.

A side shot of a Black-Eyed Susan cocktail in a highball glass on a white coaster placed on a wooden board sorrounded by a jigger, a white cloth and an orange and a lemon wedge in a bowl

What is a Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail made of – The ingredients

These ingredients are needed for a Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail:

  • Bourbon: Adds a rich, round flavor to the cocktail.
  • Vodka: Provides a neutral base that balances the other flavors.
  • Peach Schnapps: Brings a sweet, fruity note to the drink.
  • Orange Juice: Adds a refreshing citrus element.
  • Sour Mix: Contributes a tangy, sweet-and-sour taste.
  • Ice Cubes: Chills the drink and dilutes it slightly for balance.
  • Maraschino Cherry and Orange Slice (for garnish): Enhances the presentation and adds a hint of extra flavor & sweetness.

Bourbon, Vodka, peach schnapps, orange juice, sour mix, sugar cubes, half orange and lemon wedge laid out on a white bar table

How do you make a Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail?

Learn how to create a Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail with our simple steps:

1
<p>Start by filling a highball glass with ice cubes.</p>

Start by filling a highball glass with ice cubes.

2
<p>Give it a quick stir using a bar spoon, to ensure the glass is thoroughly chilled, then set it aside.</p>

Give it a quick stir using a bar spoon, to ensure the glass is thoroughly chilled, then set it aside.

3
<p>In a cocktail shaker, pour 2 ounces of orange juice (preferably fresh).</p>

In a cocktail shaker, pour 2 ounces of orange juice (preferably fresh).

4
<p>Pour 2 ounces of sour mix, which will form, with the orange juice, the citrusy base of the drink.</p>

Pour 2 ounces of sour mix, which will form, with the orange juice, the citrusy base of the drink.

5
<p>Next, add 1 ounce of peach schnapps into the shaker.</p>

Next, add 1 ounce of peach schnapps into the shaker.

6
<p>Add 1 ounce of bourbon into the shaker.</p>

Add 1 ounce of bourbon into the shaker.

7
<p>Add 1 ounce of vodka into the shaker. These spirits blend together to create a smooth, flavorful backbone with a hint of peach sweetness.</p>

Add 1 ounce of vodka into the shaker. These spirits blend together to create a smooth, flavorful backbone with a hint of peach sweetness.

8
<p>After adding all the ingredients, fill the shaker with ice cubes.</p>

After adding all the ingredients, fill the shaker with ice cubes.

9
<p>Secure the lid, and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds. This not only chills the mixture but also ensures all the flavors meld together.</p>

Secure the lid, and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds. This not only chills the mixture but also ensures all the flavors meld together.

10
<p>Once shaken, discard the ice from the highball glass and replace it with fresh ice cubes (you can also use the cocktail strainer to remove the excess water inside the glass and add more ice if necessary; remember, the more ice the better).</p>

Once shaken, discard the ice from the highball glass and replace it with fresh ice cubes (you can also use the cocktail strainer to remove the excess water inside the glass and add more ice if necessary; remember, the more ice the better).

11
<p>Using a cocktail strainer, carefully pour the mixed drink into the prepared glass.</p>

Using a cocktail strainer, carefully pour the mixed drink into the prepared glass.

12
<p>To finish, garnish with a maraschino cherry and a slice of orange, adding a burst of color and an extra touch of citrus aroma.</p>

To finish, garnish with a maraschino cherry and a slice of orange, adding a burst of color and an extra touch of citrus aroma.

Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing and fruity flavors of this classic cocktail!

History and Origin

The Black-Eyed Susan cocktail is closely associated with the Preakness Stakes, the second jewel of the Triple Crown in horse racing. Named after Maryland’s state flower, this vibrant cocktail made its debut in 1973 and has since become an iconic part of the Preakness experience. The drink’s name is inspired by the blanket of Black-Eyed Susans traditionally draped over the winning horse.

A Black-Eyed Susan cocktail, shot from above, in a highball glass on a beige surface surrounded by Bourbon, Vodka, peach schnapps, orange juice, sour mix, sugar cubes, half orange and a lemon wedge.

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FAQ

How many calories are in a Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail?
A Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail typically contains around 200-250 calories, depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used.
How strong is a Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail?
The cocktail's alcohol by volume (ABV) is approximately 13%, which translates to about 26 proof.
What alcohol is used in a Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail?
The drink uses bourbon, vodka, and peach schnapps as its primary alcoholic ingredients.
In which glass is a Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail served?
You usually serve this cocktail in a highball glass.
What does a Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail taste like?
The Black-Eyed Susan cocktail offers a delightful blend of flavors, combining the sweetness of orange juice with the tangy zest of sour mix. The addition of bourbon, vodka, and peach schnapps adds a smooth and slightly fruity undertone, creating a refreshing and well-balanced drink that's perfect for summer sipping.
What is the ratio of ingredients in a Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail?
The typical ratio includes 1 part bourbon, 1 part vodka, 1 part peach schnapps as well as 2 parts orange juice and 2 parts sour mix.
How is a Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail served?
Serve the cocktail over ice to keep it chilled and refreshing.
Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail?
You can substitute the alcoholic ingredients with non-alcoholic alternatives like flavored syrups or juices to create a mocktail version (see section above, “Making it non-alcoholic”).
Is the Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail challenging to make?
No, it's pretty easy to make. You just need to shake the ingredients together, strain them over ice, and voilà!
Why is it called the Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail?
The drink is named after Maryland's state flower, the Black-Eyed Susan, and is traditionally served at the Preakness Stakes horse race in Maryland (see section above, “History and Origin”).

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