Sparkling PB&J Sidecars Recipe

Original Recipe (1X) yields 2 servings

Ingredients

• 1 lemon wedge
• Superfine sugar, as needed
• Ice, as needed
• 3 fluid ounces peanut butter whiskey (such as Skrewball)
• 1 1/2 fluid ounces lemon juice
• 1 1/2 fluid ounces orange liqueur (such as Cointreau)
• 1 fluid ounce raspberry liqueur (such as Chambord)
• 3 fluid ounces sparkling water
• Fresh raspberries, for garnish

Directions

Step 1: Spread superfine sugar on a small plate. Rub the rims of 2 cocktail glasses with the lemon wedge.

Step 2: Dip the rims of the glasses in sugar to coat them evenly.

Step 3: Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice. Add the peanut butter whiskey, lemon juice, orange liqueur, and raspberry liqueur into the shaker.

Step 4: Cover the shaker and shake vigorously for about 60 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels frosted.

Step 5: Strain the mixture into the prepared glasses.

Step 6: Top each cocktail with 1 1/2 ounces of sparkling water and garnish with a fresh raspberry.

Cooks Note

If you dont have peanut butter whiskey, you can substitute it with hazelnut liqueur (such as Frangelico) or amaretto liqueur.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	299
Total Fat	1g (1%)
Saturated Fat	0g (1%)
Cholesterol	0mg (0%)
Sodium	14mg (1%)
Total Carbohydrate	45g (16%)
Dietary Fiber	10g (35%)
Total Sugars	20g
Protein	4g (8%)
Vitamin C	182mg (202%)
Calcium	97mg (7%)
Iron	2mg (12%)
Potassium	493mg (10%)

Note: Nutritional values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

Origin and History

The Sparkling PB&J Sidecar is a modern take on the classic sidecar cocktail, which itself originated in the early 20th century. The original sidecar is believed to have been created in Paris or London during the First World War, typically featuring brandy, orange liqueur, and lemon juice. However, this innovative version incorporates the flavors of a beloved American snack: peanut butter and jelly. The drink pays homage to childhood nostalgia while presenting a fresh, effervescent twist with the addition of peanut butter whiskey, raspberry liqueur, and sparkling water.

Regional Variations

Though the Sparkling PB&J Sidecar is a distinctly American creation, inspired by the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich, it still shares common elements with international cocktails. The sidecar, for instance, is a drink enjoyed worldwide with variations depending on the region. In the United States, variations may include different fruit liqueurs or nut-infused spirits, while in Europe, the traditional sidecar may lean towards brandy or cognac. The American flair for creativity with flavors, such as combining peanut butter whiskey with fruit liqueurs, makes this version uniquely American, reflecting the countrys penchant for bold flavors.

Distinct Differences from Similar Dishes

What sets the Sparkling PB&J Sidecar apart from other cocktails is its playful combination of familiar flavors with an unexpected effervescence. Unlike traditional cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Margarita, which rely on base spirits such as whiskey or tequila, the PB&J Sidecar introduces peanut butter whiskey as a star ingredient. Peanut butter whiskey, a relatively recent addition to the liquor world, offers a rich, nutty flavor that evokes the taste of peanut butter, a central component of the beloved PB&J sandwich. Combined with raspberry liqueur and sparkling water, it provides a fun, bubbly alternative to the more serious, spirit-forward drinks typical of the sidecar family.

Where It's Typically Served

The Sparkling PB&J Sidecar is a perfect cocktail for casual gatherings, especially when you want to surprise guests with something unique. It is often served at modern cocktail bars, particularly those that specialize in creative or whimsical drinks. The drink can also be enjoyed at home for a relaxed evening with friends or family, or at a brunch gathering where light, fizzy cocktails are appreciated. The playful nature of this drink makes it a crowd-pleaser for those who enjoy sweet, fruity, and refreshing flavors, but with a kick of whiskey.

Interesting Facts

Here are a few fun facts about the Sparkling PB&J Sidecar:

• The first peanut butter whiskey, such as Skrewball, was introduced in 2018, and quickly gained popularity among cocktail enthusiasts for its versatility in mixing with both sweet and savory ingredients.
• While peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are an iconic American lunch staple, they gained widespread popularity during the Great Depression as an affordable, filling meal that kids and adults alike could enjoy.
• The addition of sparkling water to cocktails, particularly those with a nutty or fruity profile, has become a trend in craft cocktail bars, as it adds a refreshing twist without overpowering the other flavors.
• If you're out of peanut butter whiskey, you can substitute with other nut-based liqueurs like Frangelico (hazelnut) or amaretto for a slightly different but still delicious flavor profile.

FAQ about Sparkling PB&J Sidecars Recipe