How to Make the "Too Hot to Handle" Ghost Pepper Tequila Cocktail

This recipe comes to us from our friend Jes, also known as @the.sauceress. If you're looking for a ghost pepper tequila cocktail that packs a serious punch but doesn't sacrifice flavor, you've come to the right place. The Too Hot to Handle is a unique and delicious drink that perfectly balances the smoky notes of mezcal and the sweetness of raspberry liqueur with a fiery kick.

Too Hot to Handle Ghost Pepper Tequila Cocktail Recipe

This recipe is a masterclass in balancing heat with flavor. The smoky spice from the ghost pepper tequila and the El Guapo™ Fuego Bitters is beautifully complemented by the bright, fruity notes of raspberry and citrus.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz Ghost Pepper Tequila
• .5 oz mezcal
• .5 oz raspberry liqueur
• .25 oz Grand Marnier
• 1 oz lime juice
• 4 fresh raspberries
• 7 dashes El Guapo™ Fuego Bitters
• Scotch Bonnet or other spicy cocktail rim salt
• Hot pepper
• Additional fresh raspberries, dehydrated lime wheels, for garnish

Instructions

1. Rim a glass with your preferred spicy salt.
2. Slice a hot pepper in half lengthwise. Rough chop one slice and place it into a clean cocktail shaker with 4 fresh raspberries.
3. Add the lime juice and muddle the mixture well to release the flavors of the raspberries and pepper.
4. Add all remaining liquid ingredients to the shaker: Ghost Pepper Tequila, mezcal, raspberry liqueur, Grand Marnier, and El Guapo™ Fuego Bitters.
5. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously until the outside is well chilled.
6. Fill your prepared glass with fresh crushed ice.
7. Strain the cocktail into the glass.
8. Garnish with the remaining half of the hot pepper, a few more raspberries, and dehydrated lime wheels before serving.

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

Is ghost pepper tequila really hot?

Yes, ghost pepper tequila can be very hot, as it is infused with one of the world's hottest chili peppers. However, the spiciness level can vary depending on the brand and infusion process. In the Too Hot to Handle cocktail, the other ingredients are carefully chosen to balance the heat.

Can I use a different type of tequila or pepper?

Yes, you can. For a different flavor profile or a milder spice level, you can substitute the ghost pepper tequila with a habanero-infused tequila or even a standard blanco tequila. Similarly, you can use a different spicy pepper for the garnish and muddle, such as a jalapeño or serrano, to control the heat.

What does the El Guapo™ Fuego Bitters do for the cocktail?

El Guapo™ Fuego Bitters adds a layer of complex heat and spice to the cocktail. It enhances the flavor of the ghost pepper tequila and gives the drink a more nuanced, fiery kick without overwhelming the other ingredients.

How can I make this drink less spicy?

To make a less spicy version of this ghost pepper tequila cocktail, you can skip muddling the fresh pepper slice. You can also use a milder spicy rim salt and reduce the number of dashes of El Guapo™ Fuego Bitters. The drink will still have a flavorful kick from the ghost pepper tequila.

Can I make a large batch of this cocktail for a party?

Yes, you can easily scale up this recipe for a large batch. Simply multiply all the liquid ingredients by the number of cocktails you want to make. Prepare the muddled pepper and raspberries in a large pitcher or container. When you are ready to serve, shake individual servings with ice to ensure they are properly chilled before straining and garnishing.