King Cake Clarified Milk Punch: A Rich and Elegant Cocktail Recipe
Aug 29, 2025
Happy Mardi Gras! Enjoy a unique and elegant twist on a festive classic with this King Cake Clarified Milk Punch. Many guests expect something creamy, but a clarified milk punch is a totally different experience. The process of clarifying milk leaves you with a silky smooth, clear cocktail that has a beautiful richness without being heavy. This recipe is an incredible celebration of flavor, featuring our award-winning El Guapo™ Chicory Pecan Bitters.
What is Clarified Milk Punch?
Clarified milk punch is a traditional cocktail technique that involves adding an acid to a milk-based mixture, causing it to curdle. This process removes the milk solids, along with any impurities and tannins from the other ingredients, leaving a crystal-clear liquid. The final result is a drink with a smooth texture and rich flavor that is not at all milky or opaque. This method also allows the drink to be stored for a long time, as the milk solids have been removed. The finished cocktail is endlessly adaptable and can be scaled to serve a crowd.
The King Cake Milk Punch Recipe
This recipe, created by bar manager Ryan Wilkins of Bar Marilou, serves 10-12 people. Its sophisticated and unexpected flavor profile perfectly captures the spirit of New Orleans.
Ingredients
x Ryan Wilkins of Bar Marilou
- 750 ml bottle Appleton Estate Signature Jamaica Rum
- 175 ml St. Elizabeth Allspice Dram
- 175 ml Trader Vic’s Macadamia Liqueur (Frangelico works as a substitute)
- 200 ml Water
- 20 grams Citric acid powder
- 1 bottle (4 oz) El Guapo™ Chicory Pecan Bitters
- 125 grams Dark brown sugar
- 750 ml Whole milk 🥛
- Edible gold leaf dust & king cake babies, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Cocktail Base: In a large container, mix all ingredients except the whole milk. Stir until the dark brown sugar is completely dissolved.
- Clarify the Punch: In a separate large container, place the 750 ml of whole milk. Slowly pour the cocktail mixture into the milk. The milk will curdle; this is exactly what you want. Pouring slowly ensures larger curds form, which are easier to strain. Cover the container and let it sit for one hour.
- Strain for Clarity: Begin straining the mixture through a cheesecloth. You will likely need to change the cheesecloth multiple times as it catches the curds.
- Final Filtration: After straining through the cheesecloth, strain the mixture again through a coffee filter. This final step removes any remaining sediment. You may need to change the coffee filters several times as well.
-
Serve and Garnish: Store the finished king cake milk punch in the refrigerator. When serving, pour into a glass and garnish with edible gold leaf dust and king cake babies.
Why This King Cake Milk Punch Works
This clarified milk punch has a textural richness without being heavy. The blend of rums and liqueurs gives it a deep, layered base, while the El Guapo™ Chicory Pecan Bitters provide a nutty, earthy depth that beautifully mimics the flavor of a classic king cake. The use of powdered citric acid gives it the necessary acidity for clarification without adding a strong lemon or lime flavor, allowing the other ingredients to shine.
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
How long does clarified milk punch last?
Since the milk solids are removed during clarification, this king cake milk punch can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a month.
What is the difference between milk punch and clarified milk punch?
Milk punch is a creamy, opaque cocktail made with milk, while clarified milk punch is a clear cocktail. The clarification process removes milk solids, resulting in a smooth texture and a longer shelf life.
Can I scale this recipe down?
Yes, this recipe can be scaled down for smaller groups, as long as you maintain the same ingredient ratios.
