CocktailRecipes

Waldorf Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

how to make a Waldorf recipe

📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Rye
Alcohol 22%
Calories 180 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 2g
Prep time 5 minutes

Embark on a journey through the world of flavors with the Waldorf cocktail—a symphony of aromatics and zest. This drink is not just a mixture but a story in a glass, with a legacy as rich as its taste. Together, we’ll explore its history, flavor, and the artistry behind its creation, culminating in a sensory experience that transcends the ordinary. Ready to stir your curiosity? Let’s dive in. ⬇️

History

The Waldorf is a storied cocktail, born in the glamour and sophistication of New York City’s Waldorf Astoria Hotel. It harks back to the late 19th century, a time when cocktails became a symbol of elegance and class. Its creation is a testament to the innovation and opulence of the era.

  • The Waldorf cocktail was named after the iconic Waldorf Astoria, where it was first mixed.
  • It quickly became a symbol of New York City’s luxury and high society in the 1890s.
  • Legends say that the Waldorf cocktail was a favorite among the elite attendees of the hotel’s extravagant galas.

The taste of a Waldorf?

Sipping on a Waldorf cocktail is like taking a walk through an autumn orchard, with bold apple brandy flavors leading the way. Its balanced blend of sweetness and tartness, with a hint of absinthe, creates a complex and intriguing taste profile.

I personally love the Waldorf for its ability to transport the drinker to a bygone era of sophistication with just one sip. Its timeless flavor is both a nod to the past and a toast to the present.

Interesting facts about Waldorf

  • The original Waldorf cocktail recipe has inspired numerous variations over the years.
  • Its popularity soared again in the 1930s during the resurgence of classic cocktails.
  • The Waldorf is often associated with the advent of the golden age of mixology.

Ingredients 📃

  • Apple Brandy: 2 oz (60ml)
  • Sweet Vermouth: 1 oz (30ml)
  • Angostura Bitters: 2 dashes
  • Absinthe: 1 dash
  • Lemon Peel: For garnish

A cocktail glass is the vessel of choice for a Waldorf, its wide brim allowing the aromas to envelop the senses. Alternatively, a martini glass can serve as a suitable understudy, still offering elegance and an aromatic experience.

Recipe. How to make Waldorf 🍹

  1. Chill a cocktail glass in the freezer for a few minutes.
  2. Fill a mixing glass with ice and add 2 oz of apple brandy, 1 oz of sweet vermouth, 2 dashes of Angostura bitters, and 1 dash of absinthe.
  3. Stir the mixture until well-chilled, typically for about 30 seconds.
  4. Strain the chilled drink into the prepared glass.
  5. Garnish with a lemon peel, twisting it over the drink to release the oils before adding it to the glass.

Cocktails like the Waldorf can be a treat, but it’s important to remember they often contain sugar and alcohol. Making a Waldorf with less sugar or substituting natural sweeteners can be a healthier twist, while the apple brandy offers a dash of fruity indulgence.

Rate this recipe


Food Pairings

The right food can elevate the Waldorf’s rich flavors, creating a harmonious dining experience. Here are some perfect companions for this storied drink:

Roasted Nuts

The nutty, toasted flavors of almonds or pecans can complement the warm, autumnal notes of the Waldorf, making for a delightful nibble.

Blue Cheese

Its sharp, pungent taste provides a savory counterbalance to the Waldorf’s sweet and tart notes, enhancing the overall flavor complexity.

Dark Chocolate

The bitterness of dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the sweet and herbal undertones of the cocktail, creating a luxurious taste combination.

I really enjoy the taste of Waldorfs—the cool mint and zesty lime make it a perfect drink for relaxing after a long week.

🍸 Mix up your beverage routine
Receive the freshest cocktail recipes and bar trends directly in your inbox.
Please enter a valid email address
That address is already in use
The security code entered was incorrect
Thanks for signing up

Bartender Advice

  • Always use fresh ingredients to ensure the boldest flavors in your Waldorf.
  • Be precise with your measurements to maintain the delicate balance of flavors.
  • A proper chill is crucial for the perfect Waldorf—never underestimate the power of a well-cooled glass.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Waldorf, let’s explore how you can tweak this timeless cocktail and discover new variations that may tickle your fancy.

What you could change in Waldorf

  • Apple Brandy: Can be swapped for bourbon to give the cocktail a smokey twist.
  • Sweet Vermouth: Try a dry vermouth for a less sweet and more herbaceous profile.
  • Angostura Bitters: Orange bitters can offer a lighter, citrusy note.

Waldorf Variations

Autumn Waldorf

  • Ingredients: Apple cider, cinnamon-infused brandy, and a splash of maple syrup.
  • Recipe: Mix the ingredients and serve over ice with a cinnamon stick garnish.

Summer Breeze Waldorf

  • Ingredients: Peach brandy, elderflower liqueur, and a hint of lemon juice.
  • Recipe: Combine in a shaker with ice, strain into a chilled glass, and top with a lemon twist.

Waldorf Royale

  • Ingredients: Classic Waldorf ingredients topped with champagne.
  • Recipe: Prepare a classic Waldorf in a flute and top with chilled champagne for a fizzy twist.

For a non-alcoholic treat, try a Virgin Waldorf: blend apple juice, a dash of lemon juice, and a hint of simple syrup. Serve over ice with a sprig of mint for a refreshing mocktail.

Q&A

What makes a Waldorf cocktail unique?

Its blend of apple brandy and vermouth, with an absinthe dash, creates a distinctive flavor that’s both historical and timeless.

Can I make a Waldorf without absinthe?

Yes, though the absinthe’s hint of anise is part of the classic profile, you can omit it for a subtler taste.

Is there a specific apple brandy recommended for a Waldorf?

While any quality apple brandy works, Calvados is a traditional choice that offers depth and character.

What’s the best time to serve a Waldorf cocktail?

It’s versatile! Enjoy it as a pre-dinner aperitif or a sophisticated after-dinner treat.

Can I prepare a Waldorf cocktail in advance?

It’s best served fresh, but you can pre-mix the ingredients without ice and chill them for a quick assembly.

Are there any non-alcoholic garnishes I can use for a Waldorf?

A twist of orange peel or a thin apple slice can add a non-alcoholic zest to your Waldorf presentation.

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.
Similar Cocktails 🍹

Bob’s Old Fashioned

Recipes
Bob's Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that combines the warmth of whiskey with the gentle sweetness of sugar and a dash of bitters for depth. It's a timeless drink, often garnished with a twist of citrus or a cherry, offering a smooth and sophisticated taste that's rich in tradition.

Bobby Burns

Recipes
The Bobby Burns is a warm, aromatic cocktail that combines the smoothness of Scotch whisky with the herbal notes of sweet vermouth and a whisper of Benedictine. It is a sophisticated drink with a touch of sweetness that is both comforting and refined.

White Lily

Recipes
The White Lily cocktail is an elegant and smooth blend, featuring a harmonious mix of gin, orange liqueur, and fresh lemon juice. It presents a delightful citrus taste that is both refined and pleasing to the palate.

Japanese

Recipes
A Japanese cocktail often blends traditional ingredients like sake or shochu with fresh flavors such as yuzu or green tea, creating a harmonious and delicate taste experience. These drinks are carefully crafted to present a unique balance that respects the subtleties of Japanese culture and palate.

Lemon Shrub

Recipes
A Lemon Shrub cocktail is a zesty and tangy beverage that combines the sharpness of lemon with a sweetened vinegar syrup, creating a unique and invigorating taste. It's a sophisticated and harmonious blend that offers a delightful sip with a punchy flavor profile.

Platinum Blonde

Recipes
The Platinum Blonde is an elegant, citrusy cocktail that sparkles with a blend of vodka and crisp flavors of lemon and soda. It is a sophisticated yet simple refreshment that dances lightly on the palate.