Tart orange juice and smooth whiskey come together in this easy black-eyed Susan cocktail. You can “bet” this will become one of your new go-to drinks.
I love fruity cocktails like strawberry daiquiris and peach bellinis. This light and refreshing cocktail is perfect for summer.
Why This Cocktail Is a Must Try
- Easy: This drink is ready in just a few minutes.
- No fancy equipment: No cocktail shaker required.
- Fruity Flavor: Orange and lime are the perfect combination.
Perfect For
- Watching horse racing
- Sipping poolside
- Picnics and BBQs
- Book Club
History
This drink was invented in the early 1970s by Harry Stevens at the Pimlico race track. He was catering the event and was inspired by the beautiful Black-Eyed Susan flowers used as a blanket for the winner of the Preakness Stakes, which is the 2nd leg of the Triple Crown in horse racing. In fact, it is considered the official drink of the Preakness.
It makes sense as the Black-Eyed Susan flower is a bright yellow flower with a black center. This drink recipe is also bright yellow with a cherry added as a garnish.
Ingredient Notes and Shopping Tips
- Vodka: The official race recipe uses Effen vodka. Rum can also be used if desired.
- Orange Juice: Use freshly squeezed if possible. Strain to remove the pulp if possible.
- Whiskey: The race recipe uses Makers’ Mark. I used Crown Royal as that is what I had on hand.
- Whiskey vs. Bourbon: The difference comes down to how it is aged. Bourbon must be aged in new charred oak barrels for it to be considered a true bourbon, according to the American Bourbon Association.
- Sour Mix: This is a lemon/lime base that is mixed in equal parts with simple syrup. It adds the flavor of citrus without being too tart. Look for it in the mixers aisle near the tonic water or make your own.
How To Make a Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail
- Fill glasses with ice.
- Stir all ingredients until combined.
- Garnish with fruit if desired.
How Strong Is This Drink
This drink is around 9% alcohol by volume or 18 proof. It is equal to approximately 1.5 standard drinks. Always drink responsibly.
Tips
- Ice: Make clear ice by using bottled water. You could also make ice out of orange juice to avoid watering down your drink.
- Chill: Chill your glasses for 30-60 minutes in the fridge to keep your drink ice cold.
- Serve a crowd: Multiple your number of guests by the ingredients to make this in a pitcher or punch bowl instead.
Black Eyed Susan
Ingredients
- 4 ½ Ounces Vodka
- 3 Ounces Whiskey
- 6 Ounces Orange Juice
- 6 Ounces Sour Mix
- Orange Slices and Cherries To Garnish
Instructions
- Fill glasses with ice.
- Pour in all ingredients and stir. Garnish with orange slices and cherries if desired.
Notes
- Vodka: The official race recipe uses Effen vodka. Rum can also be used if desired.
- Orange Juice: Use freshly squeezed if possible. Strain to remove the pulp if possible.
- Whiskey: The race recipe uses Makers' Mark. I used Crown Royal as that is what I had on hand.
- Whiskey vs. Bourbon: The difference comes down to how it is aged. Bourbon must be aged in new charred oak barrels for it to be considered a true bourbon, according to the American Bourbon Association.
- Sour Mix: This is a lemon/lime base that is mixed in equal parts with simple syrup. It adds the flavor of citrus without being too tart. Look for it in the mixers aisle near the tonic water or make your own.
- Ice: Make clear ice by using bottled water. You could also make ice out of orange juice to avoid watering down your drink.
- Chill: Chill your glasses for 30-60 minutes in the fridge to keep your drink ice cold.
- Serve a crowd: Multiple your number of guests by the ingredients to make this in a pitcher or punch bowl instead.
Let know what you think