Orgeat syrup is a classic ingredient in the world of cocktails, prized for its creamy texture and nutty sweetness. While traditionally made with almonds, orgeat can be crafted from a variety of nuts to achieve unique flavors. One of my favorite variations is Cashew Orgeat, which I originally created to complement the flavors in my banana flip. This cocktail needed a particularly soft, sweet orgeat to blend harmoniously with the banana liqueur and evoke the sensation of a creamy, decadent filling. Since then, this versatile orgeat has found a home in several other cocktails.
Using Cashew Orgeat
This luscious orgeat brings a smooth, sweet nuttiness to a wide range of drinks. While it shines in tropical cocktails, its soft profile also lends itself beautifully to flips, sours, and even coffee-based concoctions. Here are a couple of ways to showcase your homemade Cashew Orgeat:
- Caminando Con Jesús: Combine a whole egg, banana liqueur, Absinthe, creamy coconut, and cashew orgeat for a dessert-like cocktail that feels like a tropical escape.
- Heaven’s Soothing Embrace: Blend it with tequila, a hint of orange, lime and aloe for a comforting, warm cocktail.
Making your own orgeat is a rewarding experience that brings a personal touch to your cocktails. The depth of flavor and creamy texture of homemade Cashew Orgeat will transform your drink-making and wow anyone lucky enough to try your creations. Give it a try and let your mixology creativity soar!
If you’re ready to elevate your mixology game, making your own orgeat is a must. It’s easier than you might think, and the flavor far surpasses that of commercially available options. Here’s how you can create your own batch of Cashew Orgeat at home.
Cashew Orgeat
Soft, smooth and sweet cashew syrup
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 oz 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups cashew pieces
- 1–1/2 cup sugar
- 1–1/4 cup water
- 1 oz brandy
Instructions
- Pulse and finely chop the cashews in a food processor, but do not pulverize into a powder
- Mix the sugar and water in a heavy bottom pot over medium heat
- Stir constantly until it comes to a boil – about 2 minutes
- Add the chopped cashews, allow it to return to a simmer for 2-3 more minutes while it reduces
- Remove from heat, cover and let it rest for 2 hours
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth lined strainer and when it stops dripping gather the chessecloth around the cashew pieces and squeeze out any remaining syrup
- Whisk in the brandy , bottle and refrigerate until ready to use