Absinthe Special Cocktail

Name: Absinthe Special Cocktail Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 oz Absinthe Substitute; 1 oz Water; 1/4 tsp Powdered Sugar; 1 dash Orange Bitters

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The Absinthe Special is a simple four-ingredient cocktail that balances absinthe with water, powdered sugar, and orange bitters for a smooth, citrus-forward sipper.

🏷️Equipment: cocktail glass

Total

5 min

Servings

4

Recipe Source

Visit Mr. Boston Drinks

From Mr. Boston Drinks · by Mr. Boston Deluxe Official Bartender's Guide

Ingredients

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1 1/2 oz Absinthe Substitute
1 oz Water
1/4 tsp Powdered Sugar
1 dash Orange Bitters

4 Ingredients

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Instructions

1
Shake with ice and strain into cocktail glass.

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Tips & Notes

Pro tips

Dissolve the powdered sugar completely before serving to avoid grittiness; muddle it briefly with a touch of liquid first.
Use an absinthe substitute if you prefer lower alcohol content or milder anise flavor; traditional absinthe will create a more intense herbaceous drink.
Stir gently to prevent over-aerating; this drink's appeal lies in smooth blending rather than vigorous mixing.

Substitutions

Absinthe Substitute → Real absinthe (stronger anise, higher proof)
Powdered Sugar → Simple syrup, 1/2 tsp (easier to dissolve, less texture)
Orange Bitters → Angostura bitters (different spice profile)

Storage & make-ahead

Cocktails are best served immediately after preparation.

Equipment

mixing glass · bar spoon

Common Questions

Can I use real absinthe instead of a substitute?

Yes. Use the same 1.5 oz quantity of real absinthe, though the flavor profile will be more anise-forward and intense.

Should this cocktail be served hot or cold?

Traditionally, this style of absinthe drink is served warm or at room temperature after the sugar dissolves, though you can chill it if preferred.

How do I dissolve the powdered sugar properly?

Stir the powdered sugar with a small amount of water or absinthe first to create a syrup, then add remaining ingredients and stir until fully dissolved.