Sometimes a glimmer of sugar is just what it takes to transform an already delicious cocktail into an elegant, enchanting delight. One impressive way to achieve this is by garnishing the rim of the serving glass with it.
To add memorable touch beyond just plain sugar, we developed a trio of scented and flavored rim sugars—Vanilla, Pumpkin Pie Spice, and Smoky Chile—that can be used to add a whiff of aroma or a hint of spice, in addition to sweetness, to complement certain cocktails.
These mixtures are nothing more than carefully measured amounts of aromatics combined with sugar; they are quick and easy to make and are great to have on hand in your home bar for whenever the mood strikes to put together some extra-special drinks.
These rim sugars can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Occasionally they can clump together during storage; break up any clumps before using. These recipes can be easily doubled.
Interested in more cocktail content? Check out recipes from our first-ever beverage cookbook How to Cocktail.
How to Rim a Glass
How to Make Vanilla Rim Sugar
What You Need:1 vanilla bean½ cup sugar, divided
How to do it: Cut vanilla bean in half lengthwise. Using tip of paring knife or spoon, scrape out seeds. Using fingers, rub vanilla seeds and 2 tablespoons sugar together in medium bowl until combined. Whisk in remaining 6 tablespoons sugar. Transfer sugar mixture and spent vanilla bean halves to airtight container and let sit until flavors meld, about 2 days. (Makes about ½ cup.)
How to Make Pumpkin Pie Spice Rim Sugar
What You Need:½ cup sugar, divided2 teaspoons ground cinnamon1 teaspoon ground ginger½ teaspoon ground nutmeg½ teaspoon ground allspice
How to do it: Whisk all ingredients together in bowl until combined. (Makes about ½ cup.)
How to Make Smoky Chile Rim Sugar
What You Need:½ cup sugar, divided1 teaspoon chipotle chile powder½ teaspoon smoked paprika
How to do it: Whisk all ingredients together in bowl until combined. (Makes about ½ cup.)
Interested in more cocktail content? Check out recipes from our first-ever beverage cookbook How to Cocktail.