Atomic Fireball Cocktail Recipe
Atomic Fireball Nutrition Facts
Calories:150
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:15g
Alcohol %:20%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: August 23, 2024
Contents
History
The Atomic Fireball is a cocktail inspired by the popular spicy cinnamon candy of the same name. It was created by bartenders who wanted to capture the fiery kick and sweet burn of the candy in a liquid form. This cocktail is perfect for those who love a bit of spice in their drinks.
- Origin: Unknown
- Popularity: Mostly in the United States
- Drinkers: Ideal for those who love spicy and sweet combinations
How Atomic Fireball Tastes?
The Atomic Fireball is a spicy, sweet, and slightly tart cocktail. The cinnamon whiskey gives it a fiery kick, while the apple cider and grenadine add a sweet and tart balance. It's a bold, full-bodied drink with a lingering heat that warms you from the inside out.
Interesting facts about Atomic Fireball
- The Atomic Fireball cocktail is named after the Atomic Fireball candy, which was first created in 1954.
- Despite its fiery name and taste, the cocktail is actually quite sweet, thanks to the apple cider and grenadine.
- The Atomic Fireball cocktail is often served with a cinnamon stick garnish, to enhance its spicy flavor.
Ingredients
- Cinnamon whiskey: 1.5 oz(45ml)
- Apple cider: 1 oz(30ml)
- Grenadine: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Lemon juice: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Ice cubes: As needed
- Cinnamon stick: 1 for garnish
Cinnamon Whiskey
The 1.5 oz of cinnamon whiskey brings a spicy heat that is the soul of the Atomic Fireball cocktail. It's the primary flavor and without it, the drink would lose its 'fire'. If you're feeling daring, upping the ante with a 2 oz pour would intensify the 'blast', but beware, the flame might get too hot!
Mary Mitkina
Apple Cider
1 oz of apple cider gives a sweet, tangy twist that compliments the cinnamon's heat and provides a seasonal undertone. Less cider could lead to an overly spicy drink, while more may drown the whiskey's boldness. If apple cider isn't available, apple juice can substitute but expect a sweeter, less complex flavor.
Alex Green
Grenadine
Adding just 0.5 oz of grenadine provides a hint of pomegranate sweetness and a sunset hue. Too much and you'll have a sugar rush on your hands, too little and the cocktail may lean towards the tart side. For a twist, try a raspberry syrup for a berry-flavored spin.
Emma Rose
Lemon Juice
The 0.5 oz of lemon juice is crucial for balance. It cuts through the sweetness, adding a zesty freshness. Without it, the drink might become cloyingly sweet. Lime juice could work too, offering a sharper, more pronounced citrus kick.
Mary Mitkina
Ice Cubes
Ice is essential to cool down the drink, making the flavors crisp and refreshing. No ice would result in a lukewarm and less appealing experience. Crushed ice can make the drink colder and dilute it faster if preferred.
Alex Green
Cinnamon Stick
Finally, the cinnamon stick garnish not only looks fancy but also infuses a subtle, lasting spice that drinkers can stir in. Without it, you miss an extra layer of cinnamon aroma that completes the sensory experience.
Emma Rose
Recipe. How to make Atomic Fireball Drink
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add the cinnamon whiskey, apple cider, grenadine, and lemon juice.
- Shake well until the outside of the shaker becomes frosty.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Pro Tips
- Use a high-quality cinnamon whiskey for the best flavor.
- Shake the cocktail until the shaker is frosty to ensure it's well-chilled.
- Serve in a chilled glass to keep the cocktail cold for longer.
Perfect Pairings
Appetizers
- Spiced nuts: The fiery cinnamon kick of the Atomic Fireball pairs marvelously with seasoned or candied nuts.
- Pulled pork sliders: The sweet and tangy profile of the cocktail meshes perfectly with the savory pulled pork.
Main Courses
- Barbecue chicken: The smoky flavor and the cocktail’s sweetness make an enticing combination.
- Roasted squash: Complements the autumnal vibes of the apple cider.
Desserts
- Apple pie: The apple cider in the cocktail alongside a classic apple pie is a match made in heaven.
- Cinnamon rolls: The cinnamon from both the cocktail and rolls amplify each other's flavors.
Non-Alcoholic Pairings
- Ginger beer: For a non-alcoholic pairing, a chilled ginger beer would interact nicely with the cinnamon notes.
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What you could change in Atomic Fireball
- Cinnamon Whiskey: Can be substituted with regular whiskey and a dash of cinnamon
- Apple Cider: Can be substituted with apple juice
- Grenadine: Can be substituted with a cherry syrup
Explore all drinks starting with A here
And of course - twists🍹
Fireball Apple Fizz
- Add: 2 oz Club Soda
- Recipe: Follow the original recipe, then top off with club soda for a sparkling twist.
- Taste Change: Adds a refreshing effervescence and dilutes the sweetness just a smidge, making it even more quenching.
'Cider House' Fireball
- Substitute: Hot Apple Cider for Cold Apple Cider
- Recipe: Mix the ingredients as in the original, but serve in a mug and garnish with a cinnamon stick and a star anise.
- Taste Change: Provides a cozy warmth and enhances the spiced flavor profile, perfect for chilly nights.
Berry Blaze Fireball
- Substitute: Raspberry syrup for Grenadine
- Recipe: Use raspberry syrup in place of grenadine for a berry-licious spin on the classic.
- Taste Change: Introduces a berry tang that dances perfectly with the cinnamon, offering a fruity firework.
In case you forgot basics how to make Atomic Fireball
Add your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.
Learn everything on how to shakePlace your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
Learn everything on how to strainGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
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Frequently Asked Questions on Atomic Fireball
Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Atomic Fireball cocktail?
Yes, you can create a non-alcoholic version of the Atomic Fireball by substituting the cinnamon whiskey with non-alcoholic cinnamon syrup and apple cider to apple juice.
What food pairs well with the Atomic Fireball cocktail?
Given its fiery and sweet taste, the Atomic Fireball pairs well with savoury appetizers, like cheese platters or roasted nuts.
Can I prepare the Atomic Fireball ahead of time for a party?
Yes, you can prepare a large batch ahead of time, but avoid adding ice until it’s time to serve to prevent dilution from melting ice.
What's the correct way to handle a shaker?
To properly handle a cocktail shaker, secure the shaker with both hands - one hand on the base and the other at the top - and then give it a vigorous shake for about 10 - 15 seconds.
I'm not a fan of apple cider. What other mixers can I use?
While apple cider brings a unique tartness to the Atomic Fireball, you could use cranberry juice or even a citrus-based soda for a different flavour profile.
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