Easy Cocktail Recipe: Here’s How To Make The Perfect Manhattan

Discover the Manhattan cocktail, a timeless modern drink one sip at a time.

Contributed By

Nishtha Kawrani

June 10, 2025

Representative image

Representative image

Cocktails bring a sense of novelty with their bold flavours, rich traditions, and inventive blends of fruit-forward sips, continuously redefining drinking culture. Offering a contemporary twist on timeless classics, cocktails remain an essential part of the global dining and drinking tradition. Among these, the Manhattan stands out as a favourite among whiskey enthusiasts. Known for its smooth, spirit-forward profile, it marries the warmth of whiskey with the sweetness of vermouth, creating a drink that’s both elegant and enduring.

Despite its origins tracing back to the 1860s–70s, the Manhattan is often regarded as a modern classic. The use of aromatised and fortified wine—sweet vermouth—adds complexity, while its bold, balanced flavours and hint of bitterness make it a beloved choice for whiskey lovers. Traditionally made with rye whiskey for its spice-forward notes or bourbon for a sweeter touch, the Manhattan is a study in simplicity and depth. Crafted with just three ingredients—whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters—it’s a cocktail that relies on quality and precision.

Rich and warming, the Manhattan harmoniously blends the sweetness of vermouth with subtle herbal undertones and the contrasting bitter notes from the chosen whiskey. The result is a dark, sophisticated drink with a silky texture, layered aromas, and a comforting warmth that lingers on the palate.

Quick Info
Prep Time 2 min
Cook Time 0 min
Total Time 2 min
Servings 1
Difficulty easy
Ingredients
  • Angostura bitters (2 dashes) - 0 g
  • Sweet vermouth - 15 ml
  • Bourbon - 45 ml
  • Maraschino cherry - 1 piece
Instructions
Step-1
Add bitters, vermouth, and bourbon to a mixing glass filled with cubed ice.
Step-2
Stir well until the mixture is perfectly chilled.
Step-3
Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass using a julep strainer.
Step-4
Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
Recipe
Prep Time 2 min
Cook Time 0 min
Total Time 2 min
Servings 1
Difficulty easy
Ingredients
  • Angostura bitters (2 dashes) - 0 g
  • Sweet vermouth - 15 ml
  • Bourbon - 45 ml
  • Maraschino cherry - 1 piece
Instructions
Step-1
Add bitters, vermouth, and bourbon to a mixing glass filled with cubed ice.
Step-2
Stir well until the mixture is perfectly chilled.
Step-3
Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass using a julep strainer.
Step-4
Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
Note:
  • Double the ingredients when cooking for more people to ensure everyone gets a fluffy stack.
  • Swap out eggs for mashed bananas, yogurt, or flaxseed mix if you're vegetarian or allergic to eggs.
  • Use buttermilk instead of regular milk for extra soft and airy pancakes.
  • Let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes before cooking to get fluffier pancakes.
  • Cook on medium-low heat to avoid burning while ensuring even cooking.
  • Add vanilla extract or cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor.
  • Top with fresh fruits, nuts, or honey for a delicious and healthy twist.
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