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  • 10 key items you need to make your best at-home cocktails
cocktail recipe books
  • Food & Drink

10 key items you need to make your best at-home cocktails

From simple syrup to a whiskey smoker, these key ingredients and items will liven up any party—even if it’s just for one from the comfort of your couch.

By Jess Feldman March 31, 2020 at 8:35 am

cocktail recipe books The Mini Bar, $20; PUNCH
With this item sold exclusively from Anthropologie, you’ll receive eight petite notebooks, organized by ingredient and classic recipes consisting of all bases, all piled into one beautiful slipcase. Each volume also includes blank pages for you to write down creations of your own.
bar smith bottle simple syrup Barsmith Simple Syrup, 375 ML, $6; Barsmith
This ingredient is a must-have for any cocktail connoisseur, as almost no cocktail is complete without a splash of simple syrup, whether it’s a simple cranberry vodka or a traditional cosmopolitan.
silver bar cart tools Williams Sonoma Encore Bar Tools Set and Shaker, $139.95; Williams Sonoma
Spice up your at-home bar with this exclusively designed set for new and esteemed mixologists alike. The entire collection comes with a shaker, strainer, bottle opener, ice tongs, stirring spoon, double-sided jigger and stand, all made of durable materials that will last for years.
two silver testers with wooden handles Master Series Zester, $26; Microplane
While this tool made of stainless steel blades can be used for many things, it is an essential addition to any bar cart, as the zester is great for dropping a bit of lemon, orange or lime flavoring to your favorite cocktail.
bitters bottle with yellow cap Angostura Aromatic Bitters 6.7 oz, $17.99; Angostura
These bitters have been concocted exactly the same way since 1824, adding an enhancing aroma and flavor to any beverage. Whether you’re making a martini, a Manhattan or even an Old-Fashioned, you’ll need a drop or two of bitters to perfect the recipe.
whiskey smoker machine Crafthouse by Fortessa Smoking Box, $249.99; Fortessa
Calling all whiskey and bourbon lovers: You can now smoke your very own glass of alcohol from the comfort of your home, thanks to this tool that infuses your favorite sip with aromatic smoke. Throw in nuts, cheeses and spices too for an extra side of flavor.
Bloody Mary mix Diane’s Bloody Mary Mix, $19.95-$34.95; Williams Sonoma
Inspired by traditional flavors of the East Coast, Diane’s Bloody Mary Mix uses fresh ingredients of the garden in every bottle. Simply pair it with a bit of vodka, or tequila if that’s your drink of choice, and you’ll be ready for at-home brunch in no time.
four circular ice molds Silicone Sphere Ice Mold, $19.99; Food Network
Nothing embodies class more than sipping a homemade cocktail that has a giant ice cube in the middle of it. With this silicone sphere ice mold, you’ll have four at the ready.
jack rudy cocktail classic tonic syrup bottle Classic Tonic Syrup, $15.55; Jack Rudy Cocktail Co.
Is your drink of choice the simple blend of soda water and vodka or gin? If so, you may want to consider adding this classic tonic syrup to your bar cart. The mix from Jack Rudy Cocktail Co. is made of quinine, botanicals and sugar, and adds an extra touch of delicious flavor to your favorite cocktail.
metal tooth picks for garnishing Fruitsuper, $24; West Elm
From olives to orange peels, these medal cocktails sticks serve as the ideal base for a garnish, creating the perfect drink.

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