Cool Hand Cuke: The Essential Cucumber Lavender Bitters Recipe

Ready to enjoy a cocktail that is as refreshing as it is unique? The Cool Hand Cuke cocktail is a modern classic, offering a perfect blend of fresh, floral, and savory flavors. We'll show you how to craft this unique drink, highlighting the key role played by the El Guapo™ Cucumber Lavender Bitters recipe.

This cocktail, originally created by Chelsea S. O'Lansen of The Catahoula Hotel in New Orleans, is designed to impress. From its silky smooth texture to its crisp, clean finish, this Cool Hand Cuke cocktail is proof that specialty bitters are the secret to sophisticated mixology.

The Magic of El Guapo™ Cucumber Lavender Bitters

The secret to this cocktail's perfectly balanced flavor lies in the El Guapo™ Cucumber Lavender Bitters. Unlike ordinary bitters, this special blend is crafted to deliver a refreshing, subtle complexity. The fresh cucumber notes provide a clean, green flavor, while the hint of lavender adds a delicate floral aroma that elevates the entire drink. This unique bitters recipe turns a simple cocktail into a truly memorable experience.

The Cool Hand Cuke Cocktail Recipe

This unique cocktail was created by Chelsea S. O'Lansen of The Catahoula Hotel for New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles Magazine.

Yields: 1 cocktail

Cool Hand Cuke Cocktail Ingredients

• 1 egg white
• .75 oz freshly squeezed cucumber juice
• .75 oz vanilla simple syrup*
• .75 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1.5 oz BarSol Mosto Verde Pisco
• 4 dashes El Guapo™ Cucumber Lavender Bitters

*To make vanilla simple syrup, simply add .25 ounces of vanilla extract (Lansen uses homemade) to 24 ounces of regular 2:1 simple syrup.

El Guapo Cucumber Lavender Bitters Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a perfectly balanced and beautifully foamy Cool Hand Cuke cocktail.

1. Combine Ingredients: In a clean shaker tin, combine the egg white, cucumber juice, vanilla simple syrup, lemon juice, Pisco, and the 4 dashes of El Guapo™ Cucumber Lavender Bitters. Do not add ice yet.
2. Dry Shake (Emulsify): Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously without ice for about 15 seconds. This "dry shake" is crucial to emulsify the egg white and create a rich, stable foam.
3. Wet Shake (Chill): Open the shaker, fill it with ice, and re-secure the lid. Shake again until the shaker is well chilled, about 10-15 seconds.
4. Double Strain: Place a fine mesh strainer over a coupe or Nick and Nora glass. Double strain the cocktail to ensure a silky-smooth texture.
5. Garnish: Garnish your finished Cool Hand Cuke cocktail with a few dashes of Angostura bitters and an edible flower.

Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Explore our complete collection of recipes and discover your next favorite drink. Have a question? Contact us for assistance, or visit El Guapo’s homepage to explore everything we offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Pisco Sour?

A Pisco Sour is a classic Peruvian cocktail made with Pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, egg white, and bitters. Our Cool Hand Cuke cocktail is a unique variation on this classic formula, using cucumber, lavender, and vanilla for a modern twist.

Can I make this drink without egg white?

Yes, while egg white is essential for the foam and silky texture, you can substitute it with about 1 ounce of aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) for a vegan alternative.

How do I make fresh cucumber juice?

Fresh cucumber juice can be made by blending peeled cucumber chunks in a blender until smooth, then straining the pulp through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.