Cotton Candy Wishes, and Creamsicle Dreams

This drink was inspired by orange dreamsicle cotton candy. I love cotton candy, it has the best texture, and it’s just so magical. I’m not as big of a fan of the orange creamsicle flavor though, super sweet and creamy doesn’t really do it for me. So, my intention with this cocktail was add a little maturity with some more adult flavors, while remaining reminiscent of the original concept.

I started with Hangar 1’s fantastic Mandarin Blossom Vodka and some vanilla extract. I wanted to really up the orange flavor, but not the sweetness and I thought using orange bitters in a larger than normal amount would add extra depth. The addition of the Baller whisky  brings a smokey aspect to the drink helping make a more elegant rendition of a childhood classic.

Creamsicle Dream
2 oz. Hangar 1 Mandarin Blossom Vodka
1/2 oz. orange blossom simple syrup
1/4 oz. Regan’s Orange bitters
1/4 oz. St. George Spirits Baller Single malt Whiskey
1/4 oz. lemon juice
2 drops vanilla extract

Combine all of the ingredients in a shaker with ice, shake until chilled and slightly diluted. Pour into a Nick and Nora glass and garnish with Orange Dreamsicle cotton candy.

Cheers!