Easy Deadpan Recipe for Beginners (with Pro Bartender Tips)

Easy Deadpan Recipe for Beginners (with Pro Bartender Tips)

Calendar Icon March 14, 2025 User Icon by BarBot Team

Introduction

The Deadpan cocktail is a sophisticated twist on the classic Old-Fashioned, designed to delight those who appreciate rich and complex flavors. This luxurious drink features a unique split base of Cognac and sesame-infused rum, creating a nutty profile that’s both decadent and intriguing. Sweetened with sherry and vanilla liqueur, the Deadpan is a perfect choice for anyone looking to elevate their cocktail game with a touch of elegance.

The Deadpan cocktail is a testament to the creativity and innovation that defines modern mixology. Inspired by the timeless appeal of the Old-Fashioned, this variation brings together the warmth of Cognac with the exotic notes of sesame-infused rum. It’s a drink that not only pays homage to the classics but also pushes the boundaries of flavor, making it an exciting addition to any cocktail repertoire.

Did you know? The Deadpan’s use of sesame-infused rum adds a unique twist that sets it apart from other Old-Fashioned variations. This infusion imparts a rich, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the smoothness of Cognac and the sweetness of sherry and vanilla. It's a cocktail that invites you to explore new taste dimensions and savor each sip.

Ingredients

  • 1 oz 1840 Cognac
  • 1 oz Sesame-Infused Rum
  • 0.25 oz East India Solera Sherry
  • 0.25 oz Vanille de Madagascar
  • 1 dash Jerry Thomas’ Bitters
  • 1 Orange Twist

To create the perfect Deadpan cocktail, you'll need a selection of high-quality ingredients. Here's what you'll need to bring this rich drink to life:

  • 1 oz 1840 Cognac: Choose a Cognac like 1840 for its smooth, rich character that complements the sesame-infused rum.
  • 1 oz Sesame-Infused Rum: Infuse your rum with sesame seeds to add a unique nutty flavor to the cocktail.
  • 0.25 oz East India Solera Sherry: East India Solera Sherry offers a sweet, complex profile that enhances the drink's richness.
  • 0.25 oz Vanille de Madagascar: Vanille de Madagascar provides a creamy vanilla note that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
  • 1 dash Jerry Thomas’ Bitters: Jerry Thomas’ Bitters add depth and balance to the cocktail, enhancing its overall complexity.
  • 1 Orange Twist: An orange twist adds a citrusy aroma and a touch of elegance to the presentation.

Instructions

Crafting the Deadpan cocktail is a rewarding experience that combines technique with creativity. Follow these steps to achieve perfection:

  1. Stir all the ingredients over ice.
  2. Strain into an Old-Fashioned glass over 1 large ice cube.
  3. Express the orange twist over the drink, rub it around the rim, and place it into the drink.

Tips

  • To infuse rum with sesame, lightly toast sesame seeds and let them steep in the rum for several days to extract maximum flavor.
  • Use a large ice cube to keep the drink cold without diluting it too quickly, preserving the cocktail's rich flavors.
  • Express the orange twist over the drink to release essential oils, enhancing both aroma and taste.
  • Experiment with different sherry types to find the one that best complements your flavor preferences.

Conclusion

The Deadpan cocktail is a delightful exploration of flavors, offering a luxurious experience with its nutty, rich profile. Perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life, this drink is sure to impress both novice and seasoned cocktail enthusiasts alike. Whether you're hosting a sophisticated gathering or simply indulging in a quiet evening at home, the Deadpan is a drink that promises satisfaction with every sip.

Ready to dive deeper into the world of cocktails? With BarBot, you can discover new recipes like the Deadpan, log your tasting experiences, and refine your mixology skills. Track your journey as you experiment with flavors and perfect your craft. Download the BarBot app today and transform your cocktail adventures into a rewarding hobby. Cheers to creativity and delicious discoveries!

Deadpan recipe adapted from Cocktail Codex by Alex Day.