CocktailRecipes

Cable Car Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

how to make a Cable Car recipe

📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Rum
Alcohol 16%
Calories 220 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 18g
Prep time 5 minutes

Imagine you’re holding a chilled glass, sipping a cocktail that’s sweet, citrusy, and has a hint of spice. That’s the Cable Car—a modern classic with a story in every sip. We’ll explore its history, flavor, and how to make it, so stick with us for a delightful mixology journey. ⬇️

History

The Cable Car cocktail was invented in the 1990s. It was created by a bartender who loved classic drinks and wanted to make something unique. This cocktail is a twist on the Sidecar, but with a spiced rum kick.

  • The name ‘Cable Car’ is inspired by the famous San Francisco cable cars.
  • It was created by Tony Abou-Ganim, a well-known mixologist.
  • The cocktail has become a symbol of innovation in the bartending world.

The taste of a Cable Car?

A sip of the Cable Car is like a burst of sweet citrus with a spicy rum finish. It’s a balanced mix of sour lemon, sweet orange liqueur, and the warm notes of spiced rum.

I love the Cable Car because it’s a beautiful blend of sweet and sour, perfect for any occasion.

Interesting facts about Cable Car

  • The Cable Car cocktail has a signature sugar-cinnamon rim that adds an extra layer of flavor.
  • Despite its modern origins, it’s considered a classic.
  • This drink is often used in mixology competitions to showcase bartenders’ skills.

Ingredients

  • Spiced Rum: 1.5 oz (45ml)
  • Orange Liqueur: 0.75 oz (22ml)
  • Lemon Juice: 0.75 oz (22ml)
  • Simple Syrup: 0.5 oz (15ml)
  • Ice: Enough to fill the shaker

A Cable Car is traditionally served in a chilled martini glass. The martini glass presents the cocktail in an elegant manner, enhancing the visual appeal and concentrating the aromas. Another suitable glass would be a coupe, which also offers a wide surface for the sugar-cinnamon rim.

Recipe. How to make Cable Car

  1. Prepare the glass by rimming it with lemon juice and then dipping it into a mix of sugar and cinnamon.
  2. In a shaker, combine 1.5 oz of spiced rum, 0.75 oz of orange liqueur, 0.75 oz of fresh lemon juice, and 0.5 oz of simple syrup with ice.
  3. Shake the ingredients well until chilled.
  4. Strain the mix into the prepared glass.

Cocktails are fun, but remember—sugar can sneak up on you! The Cable Car has sweet ingredients, but you could try natural sweeteners or less syrup for a healthier twist. Spiced rum isn’t just delicious; it also has traces of antioxidants, but moderation is key.

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Food Pairings

The right food can make a Cable Car even more enjoyable. Let’s explore some pairings that enhance its unique taste.

Spicy Appetizers

The sweetness of the Cable Car perfectly balances the heat from spicy dishes. Think of enjoying it with some fiery buffalo wings or jalapeño poppers.

Grilled Seafood

The citrus notes in the Cable Car complement the smoky flavors of grilled seafood. It’s a refreshing partner to your favorite shrimp or fish straight off the grill.

Vanilla Desserts

The cinnamon-sugar rim of the drink echoes the warm flavors in vanilla desserts, like a creamy creme brulee or a slice of cheesecake.

I enjoy Cable Cars for their refreshing zest, which never fails to liven up my taste buds.

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Bartender Advice

  • Always use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
  • For the perfect rim, ensure the glass edge is evenly coated with lemon before dipping in sugar-cinnamon.
  • Chill the glass in the freezer before serving to keep the drink colder for longer.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Cable Car, we’ll explore how you can put your own spin on it and try some delightful variations.

What you could change in Cable Car

  • Spiced Rum: Substitute with bourbon for a deeper, oakier flavor profile.
  • Orange Liqueur: Swap for a floral liqueur like elderflower for a fragrant twist.
  • Lemon Juice: Try lime juice for a tangier edge.

Cable Car Variations

Autumn Cable Car

  • Ingredients: Use apple brandy in place of spiced rum.
  • Recipe: Follow the classic recipe, topping with a dash of cinnamon.

Tropical Cable Car

  • Ingredients: Add a splash of coconut cream to the mix.
  • Recipe: Garnish with a slice of pineapple for an island twist.

Chocolate Cable Car

  • Ingredients: Include chocolate bitters with the standard ingredients.
  • Recipe: Serve with a chocolate swirl inside the glass.

For a non-alcoholic treat, mix up a Virgin Cable Car with orange juice, lemon juice, and a splash of ginger ale. Rim the glass just like the original for that signature touch.

Q&A

Can I make a Cable Car without spiced rum?

Absolutely! Try it with bourbon or even a non-alcoholic spirit for a different kick.

Is there a trick to the perfect sugar-cinnamon rim?

Yes, dip the rim in lemon juice first, then take your time rolling it in the sugar-cinnamon mix for an even coat.

What’s the best occasion for a Cable Car cocktail?

It’s versatile! Great for a fancy dinner or a casual get-together with friends.

How can I make my Cable Car less sweet?

Reduce the simple syrup and orange liqueur, or use a sugar-free syrup instead.

Are there any other garnishes I can use for the Cable Car?

Try a twist of orange peel or a cinnamon stick for a different look and extra aroma.

Can I batch prepare Cable Cars for a party?

Sure! Mix all the ingredients except the ice in a pitcher, then shake individual servings with ice as needed.

Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer is a seasoned mixology and cocktail recipe writer at CocktailPlans.com. Chris has a deep passion for cocktail creation and mixology, and has been exploring and writing about the world of drinks for over 5 years.
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